Amazon Tops Fortune Global 500 List, Ending Walmart's Reign

Amazon has claimed the number one position on the Fortune Global 500 list, unseating Walmart after its 12-year run at the top. This shift represents a significant change in the global corporate landscape, particularly within the retail sector.

U.S. companies have achieved their strongest presence on the list in 18 years, with a total of 141 corporations making the cut. This increased representation highlights the continued economic influence of the United States on a global scale.

The rankings also indicate progress in gender diversity within executive leadership. The number of female CEOs has reached a new high, though specific figures were not detailed in the initial announcement. This trend suggests a broader movement towards greater inclusion in top corporate positions.

The Fortune Global 500 ranking is based on revenue for the fiscal year ended or calculated prior to April 2026. It serves as a key indicator of the world's largest companies and their financial performance.