Alice Walton, heiress to the Walmart fortune, has ascended to the position of the world’s richest woman, eclipsing Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, according to recent updates from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Walton’s net worth has soared to over $95 billion, driven by a remarkable 44% surge in Walmart’s stock price this year alone. This surge has added a staggering $25 billion to her wealth, marking a significant milestone in her financial journey.
A Shift in Fortune
In contrast, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, granddaughter of L’Oréal’s founder Eugène Schueller, has seen a decline in her net worth by $10 billion this year, bringing her current wealth to $90 billion. The decline is attributed to a 13% drop in L’Oréal shares since the beginning of the year, underscoring the volatility in global markets affecting even the wealthiest individuals.
Family Legacy and Fortune
Alice Walton’s rise to the top spot among the world’s wealthiest women is part of a broader family legacy. Alongside, her brothers Jim and Rob Walton also rank among the richest globally, with net worths of $98 billion and $95.8 billion, respectively. Together, they own substantial stakes in Walmart, each holding over 11% of the company. Over the years, the siblings have amassed considerable wealth through stock sales and dividends, collectively earning more than $15 billion.
L’Oréal and Family Heritage
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, inheriting about 35% of L’Oréal, oversees a significant stake in the world’s largest cosmetics company. The company boasts renowned brands such as Garnier and Maybelline, continuing the legacy passed down from her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, who was a major shareholder until her passing in 2017.
Looking Ahead
As Alice Walton’s wealth continues to climb, fueled by Walmart’s robust performance and strategic investments, she remains a prominent figure in global wealth rankings. Her journey underscores not only the influence of family legacies in shaping fortunes but also the dynamics of wealth accumulation in today’s competitive business landscape.
