Super-rich 'super billionaires' have quadrupled their share of global wealth
The share of global wealth held by the ultra-rich has significantly increased over the last decade. According to a new report by Altrada, the number of 'super billionaires' and their accumulated wealth has grown substantially.
The world's billionaire population has reached an all-time high, but wealth distribution remains highly concentrated. Altrada's "2026 Billionaire Census Report" reveals that the share of global wealth held by the extremely wealthy, termed 'super billionaires', has quadrupled in the past decade.
Globally, there are now 29 individuals with over $50 billion each. This elite group represents only 0.7% of all billionaires but controls 27% of total billionaire wealth. In 2017, only 10 such 'super billionaires' existed.
Investments in artificial intelligence are cited as a key driver for wealth creation, contributing to the addition of 287 new billionaires last year, bringing the total to 3,795. The United States leads with 1,265 billionaires holding a combined $6.688 trillion.
The average age of billionaires is 71, with nearly half being over 70. Women constitute only 13% of the billionaire class. Approximately 40% of the world's wealthiest individuals inherited their fortunes, at least partially.
Significant wealth transfer is anticipated in the coming decade. Globally, an estimated $6.6 trillion is expected to be passed down through inheritance, with North America projected to see $3.3 trillion transferred by 2035.