For centuries, women were often confined to the walls of the home, their ambitions and talents were controlled by societal norms.
Over the years, however, women have shattered these barriers, transforming themselves into leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. One such example is Alice Walton.
Alice Walton is more than just the daughter of Walmart’s founder. With a net worth of $117bn, she is not just the world’s richest woman but one of the most influential figures in global business and philanthropy, as reported by Bloomberg billionaires index.
While her family’s retail giant continues to rake in billions, Walton has crafted a legacy of her own, as she has never worked for Walmart in an executive role.
Who is Alice Walton?
The daughter of Sam Walton, the man who revolutionised retail with Walmart, Alice Walton inherited her share of the company’s fortune.
She did not just sit back and enjoy her wealth, though, she helped steer the family’s empire from behind the scenes. Alice’s wealth today is still deeply tied to Walmart, where she owns an estimated 11% stake through family-run companies like Walton Enterprises.
Alice Walton as a philanthropist
Unlike her siblings, who have stayed more involved in the Walmart business, Alice Walton has focused her energies on arts and philanthropy.
She founded the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, which has become one of the country’s most renowned art museums.
Alice is also known for her extensive art collection, as well as her philanthropic work, particularly in healthcare and education.
She has made huge donations to rural healthcare initiatives and even funded the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine in Bentonville, aiming to improve medical access in underserved areas.
Net worth breakdown
Alice Walton’s journey is a tale of inherited wealth, but she has shaped it into something uniquely her own. With Walmart posting $681 billion in revenue for the fiscal year ending in January 2025, her wealth continues to rise alongside the company’s success.
While she is not actively involved in Walmart’s day-to-day operations, her stake in the company has made her the 15th richest person in the world, making her position as the richest woman, ahead of other wealthy heirs like Françoise Bettencourt Meyers of L’Oréal.