For the first time in five years, a new name tops Forbes’ annual World’s Billionaires list as the richest woman. Alice Walton, the only daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, has claimed the title with an estimated fortune of $101 billion.
Walton’s ascent dethrones Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, the L’Oréal heiress who had held the position since 2021. Bettencourt Meyers now ranks as the second-richest woman in the world, with a net worth of $81.6 billion.
The 75-year-old Walmart heiress saw her wealth surge by $28.7 billion over the past year, thanks to a 40% increase in the value of her 11% stake in Walmart. The retail giant’s stock soared as inflation-conscious shoppers flocked to its stores, reinforcing its reputation for “Every Day Low Prices.”
With this milestone, Walton joins the exclusive $100 Billion Club, an elite group of just 15 individuals worldwide who hold twelve-digit fortunes. She is only the second woman in history to achieve this status, following Bettencourt Meyers, who crossed the threshold in June 2024.
Globally, Walton is now the 15th richest person, ranking just behind her brothers Rob Walton ($110 billion) and Jim Walton ($109 billion), further solidifying the Walton family’s dominance in the world of wealth.
