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15 Luxurious Destinations That The Rich And Famous Always Visit

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Slimming Down The List Of Where Rich People Vacation For 2024

• Wealthy people vacation in exclusive destinations with stunning scenery, luxury resorts, and top-notch entertainment venues.
• St. Moritz in Switzerland, Copacabana in Brazil, and Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands are popular spots for the rich.
• From skiing in St. Moritz to beach lounging in Copacabana to island paradises like Necker, the elite have a wide range of lavish vacation options.

Where do wealthy people vacation? One of the privileges that come with being rich and famous is getting to vacation in some of the most exclusive destinations on the planet. Having a healthy bank account and a well-known name means you can escape to exotic locations that most people haven’t even heard of and be pampered in some of the best resorts in the world.

Scattered all over the globe, the elite's top vacation spots boast some of the prettiest scenery. They are also home to exclusive dining and entertainment venues, isolated and private beaches, and the filming locations of blockbuster hits.

Wondering where do rich people vacation? Check out these luxurious destinations that the rich and famous always visit.

We have ranked each destination here based on factors such as celebrity encounters and general popularity and included activities and hotels per A-lister-frequented location. All hotels have a rating of at least 8.0 per their respective site.

UPDATE: 2024/05/28 17:56 EST BY JASON DOOKERAN

We've updated this list to reflect current information regarding rich people's vacation spots around the world. It has also been narrowed down to the most epic places where rich people vacation. For visitors wondering, "Where do the rich vacation?" This list covers the top fifteen spots.

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St. Moritz, Switzerland

The place the rich visit to go skiing.

One of the answers to "Where do the rich vacation?" is this quaint town. St. Moritz in Switzerland is an example of how the retreats of the rich and the famous don't always resemble tropical island paradises. One of the most highly acclaimed ski destinations on the planet, St. Moritz is located in the Albula Alps and was the first place to boast both the first ski lift and the first electric light.

Not only do the rich and famous frequently vacation here, but it was also used to film a couple of James Bond movies, including The Spy Who Loved Me .

• Recommended tour: Tour Bernina Red Train and St Moritz
• Duration: 13 hours
• Cost: From $124.83 per adult
• Accommodation: Soldanella
• Amenities: Spa and wellness center, sauna, hiking, golf, minibar

Copacabana, Brazil

One of the most popular beaches in the world.

Arguably Brazil’s most famous beach, Copacabana, is near the top of the list of rich people's vacation spots. Among the faces who have been seen visiting the Copacabana Palace Hotel, which is one of the most lavish in the world, are Miley Cyrus, Tom Cruise, and the late Princess Diana.

Copacabana is all about flaunting your body in the trendiest swimwear and spending hours soaking up the sun. Topless bathing is prohibited, but people still strip down to barely-there swimsuits and look as comfortable as ever while doing it.

• Recommended tour: 3-hour Sailing Experience in Rio
• Duration: 3 hours
• Cost: From $50 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Hotel Astoria Palace
• Amenities: Beachfront, outdoor pool, restaurant, childcare services

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

A caribbean island that the rich enjoy.

Necker Island is owned by billionaire Richard Branson, who is worth around $5.1 billion, and is another one of those rich people's vacation spots most of us won't ever see. One of 60 islands in the British Virgin Islands, Necker is truly a destination for the wealthy. Branson has turned his island into an all-inclusive resort. Kate Moss spent her 40th birthday here, and it was also where Google co-founder Larry Page celebrated his nuptials.

One can book a room in this isolated paradise, too, for a cool starting price of $5,000. If one wants to rent the whole island, it will cost $80,000 a night.

• Recommended tour: Magic Mangrove Paddle in Beef Island Lagoon
• Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Cost: From $90 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Saba Rock Resort
• Amenities: Private beach, snorkeling, free shuttle

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Lake Como, Italy

Songs have been written about this destination.

Made famous for being home to George and Amal Clooney, Lake Como won the title of the Most Beautiful Lake in the World in 2014. Today, the Clooneys spend approximately four months out of the year in their $10 million mansion by the lake, Villa Oleandra. It's not a wonder why the locale is one of the most popular vacation spots for rich people.

The lake is lined by several exclusive resorts, just in case you don’t have millions to splash on a home in the area. The days here are usually spent taking in the colorful hillside villages, absorbing the local culture, and partaking in activities such as boating and golfing.

• Recommended tour: Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna
• Duration: 11 hours
• Cost: From $84.88 per adult
• Accommodation: Hotel San Gerolamo
• Amenities: Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Free toiletries

The Hamptons, USA

A well-known answer to the question "where do rich people go on vacation".

Home to beaches of white sand, high-end restaurants and bars, luxurious resorts, and designer boutiques, the Hamptons is one of the top playgrounds of the rich and famous in the United States. The East Coast destination provides a relaxing escape from the busy action of New York City and is one of the most popular locations for summer vacations.

If you’re ever in the Hamptons, you might bump into Beyoncé and Jay-Z and their brood, the Clintons, or even Calvin Klein, since they all own property in the area.

• Recommended tour: Full-Day Private Tour to Hamptons with Pickup
• Duration: 8 hours
• Cost: From $1,248.3 per adult (Depending on group size)
• Accommodation: Montauk Manor
• Amenities: Outdoor pool, Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant Bar/Lounge

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

A pristine escape from a bustling world.

One of the reasons that the elite tend to flock to Cabo San Lucas is its natural beauty. The Mexican destination is home to Lover’s Beach, which is straddled by both the volatile Pacific Ocean and the secluded Sea of Cortez. Not bad for one of the more isolated rich people's vacation spots.

Cabo San Lucas seems exclusive since it’s only reachable by boat, but it is still a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds of affluent visitors. In the past, Jennifer Lopez and Justin Bieber have been spotted catching some rays here, and it has even been featured in the Real Housewives franchise as a luxury vacation location.

• Recommended tour: Los Cabos luxury sailing, snorkel, and lunch cruise
• Duration: 4 hours
• Cost: From $139 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Montage Los Cabos
• Amenities: Private beach, infinity pool, horse riding, evening entertainment

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Hvar, Croatia

A secret escape for the rich and famous.

Croatia is one of Europe’s gems that many travelers still haven’t added to their bucket lists. With more and more people flocking to see Dubrovnik after the coastal city was made popular by the HBO series Game of Thrones , it seems that the upper echelons prefer the island of Hvar. It shows up on many of the lists of rich people's vacation spots - far more than most imagine.

Superstars like Tom Cruise and Giorgio Armani have been spotted living it up on the island in the past. Prince Harry has also been spotted visiting the nightclubs and bars on the island, while Jacqueline Kennedy visited back in the 1960s.

• Recommended tour: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar
• Duration: 10-12 hours
• Cost: From $99.86 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Heritage Hotel Park Hvar
• Amenities: Snorkeling, complimentary breakfast, casino, pet-friendly

Famous For Casinos and Grands Prix, As Well As Opulence

Situated on the French Riviera (another answer to the question, "Where do rich people vacation?"), Monaco is one of the most famous destinations for the upper classes. Come here, and you’ll be met with an array of yachts, world-class restaurants, lavish casinos, and some of the best hotels on the planet. Monaco is tax-free, so people tend to go all out here. It’s not for the conservative!

While Monaco is known for its opulence, it’s also a destination rich in history. Visitors can stroll through charming cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings and soak up the unique ambiance.

• Recommended tour: Ferrari Sports Car Experience from Monaco
• Duration: 30-60 minutes
• Cost: From $187.75 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Port Palace
• Amenities: Snack bar, hot tub, daily housekeeping, wheelchair accessible

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Everything a rich person wants for a tropical getaway.

Bora Bora in French Polynesia is one of the most popular destinations for honeymooning when it comes to the rich and famous. One of the most famous honeymoons to take place here was that of Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux after their nuptials in 2015. They also brought along friends Courtney Cox, Chelsea Handler, and Jason Bateman on a private jet to share in the celebrations.

If you want pristine views of tranquil lagoons and lush tropical gardens while mixing with the world’s elite, Bora Bora is the place to go.

• Recommended tour: Full Day Lagoon Group Tour in Bora Bora with Lunch
• Duration: 6 hours
• Cost: $142.27 USD per adult
• Accommodation: Conrad Bora Bora Nui
• Amenities: Private beach, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center

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Saint Tropez, France

The playground of the rich and famous.

Another popular destination on the French Riviera, Saint Tropez, has been the go-to getaway of the affluent for decades. The coastal town starred on the world stage when the film And God Created Woman , featuring Brigitte Bardot, was filmed here. After that, visitors began to arrive by private jet.

Packed with high-end restaurants and exclusive beach clubs, Saint Tropez has been known to host an array of celebrities in its many world-class hotels. Visit here, and you just might run into Bill Gates, Steven Spielberg, or even one of the Kardashian sisters.

• Recommended tour: Full Day Private Yacht Charter in the Bay of St Tropez
• Cost: From $1,797.56 per group (up to 8)
• Accommodation: Hôtel Les Palmiers
• Amenities: ATM on-site, breakfast in bed, minibar, pet-friendly

A Safe and Special Island Paradise For The Elite

This beautiful Caribbean destination is known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters. St. Kitts is also distinguished by its laid-back atmosphere. It's a luxury destination that the rich and famous visit to stay at major hotel brands such as Marriott and Hyatt. People spending a vacation on this gorgeous island are sure to enjoy the most elevated experience ever.

• Recommended tour: St. Kitts Zipline Experience
• Duration: From $99 USD per adult
• Cost: 2 hours
• Accommodation: Royal St. Kitts Hotel
• Amenities: Table tennis, karaoke, beach access, vending machines, picnic area

The Azores, Portugal

Islands that are another answer to: "where do rich people vacation".

This area is made up of nine Portuguese volcanic islands found in the Atlantic Ocean between Portugal and the United States. The rich and famous come to the Azores to hike and bike around the area, enjoy the beautiful vistas, and explore many attractions in this iconic hidden gem.

• Recommended tour: Azores Whale Watching and Islet Boat Tour
• Duration: From $54.93 USD per adult
• Cost: 3 hours
• Accommodation: Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico
• Amenities: Cooking classes, eco-tourism, complimentary breakfast

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Aspen, Colorado

Snowy slopes make a great getaway for the rich and powerful.

Aspen is one of the most famous and expensive alpine resort towns in the United States. It is famous for attracting celebrities and the wealthy. Aspen was a silver mining boom town but now has transformed into an answer to the question: "Where do rich people vacation?"

Still, if one can afford it, it can be fun to go skiing in Aspen's upmarket ski resorts . That being said, good luck finding an affordable Airbnb option in Aspen (and Airbnb is considered one of the more affordable options for Aspen ).

• Recommended tour: Highlights of Aspen Tour
• Duration: From $40.00 USD per adult
• Cost: 1 hour
• Accommodation: The St.Regis Aspen Resort
• Amenities: Fitness center, indoor pool, spa, bar/lounge, bicycle rental, room service

Capri, Italy

A neapolitan delight for the wealthy.

Capri is a stunning island just off the coast of Naples. This island is as fantastically beautiful as it is notoriously expensive. It is one of the favored exclusive wealthy getaways in Italy (the cost of visiting alone is enough to make it exclusive). Capri is one of the world's oldest getaways and was a tourist resort all the way back to the days of the Romans. People on a budget can find it affordable if they take the ferry there and back for a day trip to the island.

• Recommended tour: Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi Day Trip from Naples with Pick Up
• Duration: From $133.03 USD per adult
• Cost: 8-9 hours
• Accommodation: Soleluna
• Amenities: Scuba diving, outdoor grill, coffee machine

London, United Kingdom

Bustling but with a vibrant night life and great shopping.

Posh, luxurious, chic: London is everything (and more) that makes it an attractive holiday destination for celebrities from around the world. The British capital's enduring appeal comes from the variety of experiences it offers all travelers. From catching top-rated shows in the West End to indulging in the city's massive shopping culture or checking out Britain's historic attractions , there is much to do in London that will keep every tourist, rich or not, coming back for more. One would be hard-pressed to find a Hollywood celebrity who hasn't taken at least one trip to this land of royalty; of course, British stars will be found in abundance here. Don't be surprised to see Elton John or Kate Moss dining at the next table!

• Recommended tour: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London
• Duration: From $128.48 USD per adult
• Cost: 11 hours
• Accommodation: Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel
• Amenities: Car rental, outdoor grill, hot tub, wheelchair accessible
• Bucket List Ideas

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Billionaire Social Calendar: Keeping Up With The Bezos’ And Buffets

From fairways to runways.

by Emma Treagus Published on February 1, 2023

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If you could do anything you wanted, what would it be? Hop on a luxury private jet to the Maldives? Show off your superyacht in Monaco? Look up your mega mansion and book front row seats at every Fashion Week? For most of us, the answer is more of a philosophical fantasy, best imagined with a glass of red in hand. But for some, it’s a reality—a question posed from the comfort of an ultra-high net worth. 

From Jeff Bezos to Michael Jordan to Kim K, they already own some of the world’s most expensive houses and diamond-embellished Rolexes . So what comes next for the world’s uninhibited billionaires? Unconstrained by budgets or office hours, the only question left to ask is how best to spend their hard-earned cash. And whilst the Amazon founder almost certainly has a different year calendar to the famous reality star, there are a few high net worth events that attract billionaires from every corner of the globe. 

Kicking off the year in Switzerland, the Davos World Economic Forum is a quintessential opportunity for anyone influential enough to have a say in future economic priorities. While attending the Met Gala in New York solidifies your place in affluent circles and helps raise money for charities. Of course, in July, you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else than eating strawberries and cream courtside at Wimbledon. And St Barts is the only place to set New Year’s resolutions amongst a plethora of like-minded big shots.

Taking a sabbatical to live the high life (one can dream)? Here are the most prestigious social events to add to your calendar.

Davos World Economic Forum – Davos, Switzerland

It’s not all fun and games in the life of a billionaire—many of them see their wealth as a responsibility to make a change. Kicking off the rich people social calendar is the Davos World Economic Forum, an annual meeting hosted in Switzerland where influential people discuss financial priorities for the year ahead. 

Art Stage – Singapore

A rich person’s passtime, collecting art is both a hobby and an investment for many billionaires. And where do they find the latest avant-garde artworks? At Art Stage in Singapore, of course. Attracting the world’s most sought-after contemporary artists, the much-anticipated festival is an art collector’s paradise—especially if you’ve got a deep pocket.

Sundance Film Festival – Utah, United States

Whether you’re a director, actor or just someone with cash lying around, the Sundance Film Festival is a great opportunity to mingle with A-listers and celebrate film. Naturally, you’ll find the rich and famous at the celebrity lounges, partying with the who’s who in the industry and attending exclusive night screenings. 

St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow – St. Moritz, Switzerland

A favorite amongst royals, Polo has always been an elite sport. But couple that with St Moritz’s opulent Alpine resorts and it’s no surprise that you’ll find many of the world’s richest people sipping on Perrier-Jouët champagne beneath the Swiss slopes. And besides enjoying the sport, gourmet food selections, exclusive social events, and five-star resorts are the ordre du jour. 

Cresta Run – St. Moritz, Switzerland

When it comes to the Billionaire Social Calendar, exclusivity is the name of the game. Cresta Run is case in point. The sled run is built from natural ice and stretches from St Moritz to Celerina. Only members of the St Moritz Tobogganing Club are invited to do the run. And founded in 1887, the private tobogganing club only opens its doors to the select few. 

White Turf International Horse Races – St. Moritz, Switzerland

Held since 1907, the White Turf International Horse Races has attracted business tycoons and socialites alike for over a century. The invitation-only event features horse racing on St Moritz frozen lakes, as well as other sports such as skijoring. Skijoring? Don’t worry we had to google it too—just picture thoroughbreds galloping across a frozen lake and attached to them are humans on skis. 

Super Bowl – United States

A favorite amongst Jay Z, the Biebers and Charlize Theron, the Super Bowl is a major event for many. And whilst the tickets are pricey by nature, the championship NFL game is less about exclusivity and more about joining in the vibe. Yes, some billionaires take to their private suites. But many sit in the stadium with the rest of us—oversized hoodies and all. 

Vienna Opera Ball – Vienna, Austria

The Vienna Opera Ball is one of the most glamorous balls of the season. Paying homage to centuries of tradition, the dress code is strictly white tie and tails for men and floor-length gowns for women. After the debutantes’ iconic dance, the dance floor is open to everyone until 5 o’clock in the morning. 

Fashion Weeks – Worldwide

For some, February is the month of love. For others, it’s the month of fashion. With Fashion Weeks happening all around the world—from New York to London to Milan—you’ll find most celebrities and A-listers on the side of a runway. Naturally, Fashion Week isn’t open to the public. But if you have enough money and influence, you’re almost certainly on the list. 

Dubai World Cup – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Perhaps you’re a billionaire horse breeder. Or perhaps you’re more interested in placing bets on who will wear the largest hat. Either way, the Dubai World Cup is renowned for attracting the rich and famous. From VIP restaurants to exclusive events, for many the horse race is a networking opportunity not to be missed. 

Art Basel Hong Kong – Hong Kong, China

Art Basel Hong Kong brings international artists together with over 250 galleries showcasing works from over 4,000 artists around the world. The open-plan fair is a must-see for art aficionados. And for the world’s richest tycoons, it’s a hunting ground for new investments. It also doesn’t hurt that the cultural experience is perfectly balanced by epic nights out.

Downhill Skiing – Aspen

Renowned for being the snowiest time of the year in Aspen, March is the month where you’ll find the richest people in the world heading for the slopes. Escaping the everyday demands of urban living, many big-shot celebrities flock to the quaint resort town for a breath of fresh air.

US Masters Golf Tournament – Georgia, United States

It appears that gentlemen’s clubs aren’t the only club attracting high-profile visitors. As one of the most expensive sports events in the world, the US Masters Golf Tournament sees many billionaires floating along the fairways. The tournament is hosted at Augusta National, an exclusive golf club, counting Bill Gates and Warren Buffet among its members. 

Singapore Yacht Show – Singapore

Life is pretty plain sailing when you’re a billionaire. You buy one of the largest yachts in the world . And then you show it off at the Singapore Yacht Show. Celebrating the yachting lifestyle in a scintillating setting, the four-day event is attended by more than 16,000 with VIP areas for the elite of the elite. 

Met Gala – New York City, United States

Known as “fashion’s biggest night out” many of us wait in eager anticipation to see who wears what. But more than just exquisite gowns, the Met Gala is an annual fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. As one of the most exclusive events, it brings together celebrities from the worlds of fashion, film, music and art—as well as tech billionaires (we see you Bezos.) 

Cannes Film Festival – Cannes, France

Held since 1946, the Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry. Showcasing and awarding new films from around the world, it is held annually in May at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in the French Riviera town of Cannes. And reserved primarily for film industry professionals, you have to be someone to receive an invite. Cue: the lineup of Hollywood A-listers and some of the biggest names in international cinema. 

Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Car Show – Cernobbio, Italy

The Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Car Show is an annual car show held in the quaint Italian town, Cernobbio located on the shores of Lake Como. It began as a beauty contest for cars in 1929 and showcases some of the world’s finest classic and concept cars from leading automotive manufacturers. Today, the glamorous event is organized by BMW Group , attracting deep-pocketed celebrities and automobile enthusiasts alike. 

Glyndebourne Opera Festival – East Sussex, United Kingdom

There’s nothing more sophisticated than getting all dressed up to attend the Opera Festival at the historical Glyndebourne manor house. Founded in 1934 by John Christie and his wife Audrey Mildmay, Glyndebourne Opera Festival is known for its high production values and for its performances of lesser-known operas. Performed in the picturesque countryside gardens, the festival is a throwback to old-school high society, making it a hotspot for affluent guests. 

Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix – Monaco

Attending one elite event to the next, the world’s most famous billionaires know a thing or two about living life in the fast lane—one of the most important ones being the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. From Patrick Dempsey to Serena Williams, you’ll spot many big names pulling up to watch the drivers fight for the podium. 

Kentucky Derby Horse Race – Kentucky, United States

Hold your hats, we’re betting big! The Kentucky Derby is a prestigious race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses. It is held in Louisville, Kentucky, United States on the first Saturday in May. And distinguished by its short duration and the blanket of roses draped over the winner, it is affectionately known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports” or “The Run For The Roses.” 

Henley Royal Rowing Regatta – Henley-on-Thames, United Kingdom

Not only is Henley Royal Rowing Regatta the highlight of the Summer rowing season, but it’s also the climax of the UK social season. Endorsed by the Royal family, the six-day event is renowned as one of the most prestigious events since 1839. And with a strict dress code and exclusive lounges, it continues to maintain its elite status.

European Soccer Championships – Europe

As one of the most popular sporting events, the European Soccer Championships (UEFA) attracts spectators from all walks of life—including the richest people in the world. The tournament has been held every four years since 1960 in a different European country each year. And whilst the tournament takes place over a month, the championship final is where you’ll find most of the rich and famous.

US Open Golf Tournament – Pennsylvania, United States

As one of the four major golf tournaments, the US Open Golf Tournament is also one of the most illustrious. Taking place on the third weekend of June, the tournament always ends on Father’s Day. And with the reputation for identifying the best golfers in the world, the difficult golf courses pose a stern challenge to all. 

Royal Ascot Gold Cup Horse Race – Berkshire, United Kingdom

First run in 1807, the Royal Ascot Gold Cup Horse Race is the longest surviving horse race at Royal Ascot. Steeped with history and tradition, the horse race was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth, whose horse won in 2013. And benefitting from the support of the royal family, it is also famous for attracting other big betters—and even bigger hats.

Roland Garros / French Open – Paris, France

Besides helping you find love, Paris has another ace up its sleeve—Roland Garros. Roland Garros (aka the French Open) is one of the four major tennis grand slam tournaments and the only one on clay. Attracting big hitters and affluent spectators alike, it’s an event not to be missed in the Billionaire Social Calendar. 

Jaeger-LeCoultre Polo Gold Cup – Midhurst, United Kingdom

Held at the exquisite Cowdray Estate, Jaeger-LeCoultre Polo Gold Cup takes us back to 19th century England, where high society regularly gathered to support their men on horseback.  Jaeger-LeCoultre is the premier polo tournament in Europe at High Goal level with matches being played at the Lawns Grounds and Ambersham Grounds over a three-week period. 

Wimbledon Tennis Championship Finals – London, United Kingdom

Not only is Wimbledon the only grand slam to be played on grass courts, but it is also the oldest tennis tournament in history. Shrouded with deep-rooted tradition, the players have to wear white and strawberries and cream are almost a prerequisite for all courtside spectators. But tickets aren’t available to just anyone. And as one of the most exclusive events, tennis enthusiasts have to apply for the public ballot well ahead of time. Unless you’re a billionaire—and then you can pretty much do as you please. 

Bayreuther Wagner Music Festival – Bayreuth, Germany

Performed in the iconic auditorium where music unfolds like no other place on earth, the Bayreuther Wagner Music Festival is held annually in Bayreuth, Germany. The small town is famous for its association with the revolutionary composer, Richard Wagner. And so the festival started, specifically to showcase Wagner’s works. Over 140 years later, Bayreuther Wagner is still one of the most elite classical music festivals. 

US PGA Golf Championship – North Carolina, United States

As one of the four majors, there’s nothing subpar about the US PGA Golf Championship. In fact, it is golf’s only all-professional major, making it the hardest to win. The tournament is run by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America, so unlike the other three majors, amateurs aren’t allowed to compete. 

Venice International Film Festival – Venice, Italy

As the oldest film festival in the world, the Venice International Film Festival is the perfect excuse to sail your superyacht into Italy. The 80th festival will take place in August 2023. And whilst many screenings are open to the public, it’s the discreet private affairs that will attract industry stars and film-loving billionaires. 

Beijing International Music Festival – Beijing, China

The Beijing International Music Festival is one of the world’s leading music festivals and an integral cultural institution in China. Each year international artists and participants gather in the capital for two weeks to celebrate classical music. The festival is often presented by big names in the industry. And it is also a quintessential stop-off for producers seeking new talents. 

Monaco Yacht Show – Monaco

If you’re looking to upsize your superyacht, the Monaco Yacht Show is the place to go. The Monaco Yacht Show showcases exceptional superyachts , with over 40 new models unveiled. The annual trade show is held at the iconic Port Hercules. And as one of the most exclusive events, the four-day show is an invite-only affair. 

Salon Prive Supercar Show – Woodstock, United Kingdom

Salon Prive is the place to be seen for automobile aficionados and billionaires alike. The prestigious event invites guests to meander through pristine lawns, converse with the top manufacturers and test-drive the latest supercar models . The event takes place over four days in September. And set against the scintillating backdrop of the historic Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, it epitomizes elegance and class. 

Ryder Cup Golf Championship – United States / Europe

Distinguished from all other golf tournaments, The Ryder Cup is a men’s golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. Contested every two years, the venue alternates between the United States and Europe. And featuring its own set of rules, it is known for attracting a tastefully rowdy crowd from affluent circles. Yep, you can usually spot Donald Trump picking up putting tips. 

Singapore F1 Grand Prix – Singapore

Characterized by its breathtaking location, the Singapore F1 Grand Prix is set against the backdrop of the magnificent Singapore skyline. The iconic night race forms part of the Formula One World Championship, featuring slick marketing and headliner concerts. Corner after corner, the track is one of the hardest in the world, making it one of the most stimulating F1 events to attend.

If you were too busy buying a private island in February, September is your chance to visit Fashion Weeks around the world—that is if you’re invited of course. The top September fashion weeks take place in New York, London, Milan and Paris, opening their doors to the most affluent in the industry.

Frieze Masters Art Show – London, United Kingdom

Frieze Masters Art Show is one of the most prestigious and influential art fairs. Located in the heart of London—The Regents Park—the event focuses solely on contemporary art and living artists. The fair is open to the public. And showcasing the latest avant-garde sculptures and artworks, it is an art collector’s paradise. 

Melbourne Cup Horse Race – Melbourne, Australia

Along with golf and yacht shows, horse racing is a quintessential component of the Billionaire Social Calendar. And if you’re yet to place a bet on the winning horse, the Melbourne Cup Horse Race is your last chance for the year. The Melbourne Cup is the largest Thoroughbred horse race in Australia. And behind The Everest, it is the second biggest turf race in the world. 

Bal des Débutantes Fashion Show – Paris, France

Each November, daughters of Hollywood’s elite, royal houses, business moguls and politicians from around the world receive exclusive invites to attend Le Bal des Debutantes in Paris. The high-profile debutantes are scouted years in advance by event organizer, Ophelie Renouard. And whilst the haute couture gowns and opulent interiors add to the magnificence of the event, the heart of the ball is charity. 

La Scala Opera House Opening Night – Milan, Italy

La Scala is a famous opera house in Milan, Italy. Originally known as the Nuovo Regio Ducale Teatro alla Scala, the theater was inaugurated in 1778. La Scala’s season opens on 7 December on the feast day of Milan’s patron saint, Saint Ambrose. Traditionally, all performances must end before midnight, meaning that longer operas have to start earlier. Although tickets are made available to everyone, the Royal Box is reserved for the elite. 

Art Basel Miami Beach – Miami, United States

Posed as a cultural meeting point in the art world, Art Basel Miami celebrates new talents. Whilst Art Basel is an international fair that takes place in Switzerland, Hong Kong and Miami, the Miami location is renowned as the hotspot for high-profile celebrities looking to add to their contemporary art collections. 

St. Bart’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations – St. Barths, Caribbean

St Barts certainly isn’t the largest island in the world, but it probably has the highest density of celebrity-chartered superyachts—especially over New Year’s Eve. With a plethora of rejuvenating spas, five-star restaurants, clean white sands, and crystal clear waters, we don’t blame the rich and famous for choosing the Caribbean island to bring in the new year. 

Frequently asked questions about the ultra-high net worth lifestyle

The typical definition of an Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) individual is someone with $30 million or more in investable and liquid assets. The UHNW population dropped by 6% in the first half of 2022, leaving us with 392,410 UHNW individuals in the world.

Home to most business moguls such as Jeff Bezos, Warren Buffet and Bill Gates, the United States is the country with the most Ultra High Net Worth Individuals (UHNWI). Defined as a person with a net worth of over $30 million, the US makes up more than half of the UHNWI population.

The Billionaire Social Calendar (or the Rich People Social Calendar) is an unofficial list of events highly attended by the elite. The list includes the Davos World Economic Forum in Switzerland, a number of yacht shows, expensive sporting events, and exclusive fashion shows. See our article for the complete, annual Billionaire Social Calendar.

While every person—rich or poor—has individual interests. There are a few upper-class social events that are renowned for attracting the rich and famous. Big sports events such as the Super Bowl, Wimbledon and the US Open Golf Tournament are popular amongst many. Invite-only charity events often spark the interest of those looking to give back. And informative events such as the Davos World Economic Forum provide an opportunity for big shots to have their say.

About the author

Emma Treagus

Women’s fashion & travel editor.

A former fashion assistant and budding entrepreneur who calls the world her home, Emma writes many of Luxe Digital’s women’s style and travel stories, drawing on her passion and experience for slow fashion alongside an appreciation for current trends. When she’s not getting her way with words, you’ll find her exploring a new city (at quite a walking pace)—locating the nearest sushi restaurant or devouring a book on the beach.

Learn more about Emma Treagus

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Travel like a billionaire with this fantasy bucket list

Jul 8, 2020 • 6 min read

The small harbour at Portofino is a very exclusive spot to dock your yacht © Bim / Getty Images

You might think the entries on your travel bucket lists are aspirational – a trip to see the Northern Lights doesn’t come cheap, after all, nor does a cruise to Antarctica –  but we all wonder sometimes what would these wish lists look like if money were no object. What if you could not only hit up that must-see country, but do so with first class tickets, luxe hotels with the best views, and no thought about the tab at Michelin-starred restaurants? In other words, what would it be like if you could travel like a billionaire? 

 Welcome to the ultra-luxe world of gilded hotels, iceberg-dodging super-yachts, and 24-hour butler service. If you're indulging your imagination, follow along to a list of destinations where your every whim will be catered to, where adrenaline-rush adventures are followed up with soothing spa treatments, and where private suites are fit for a king. We've rounded up six dreamy places to blow those lottery winnings that are one Powerball ticket away.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

For the ultra-rich who haven’t already bought their own private island, unspoilt Necker Island , owned by billionaire Sir Richard Branson, is available for exclusive hire from US$102,500 per night. The 74 hectare, flamingo-inhabited paradise in the British Virgin Islands can accommodate 40 guests across its casually luxurious accommodations, including the Great House, with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Free from the scourge of other holidaymakers, guests can bask on one of the powder-sand beaches, take wakeboarding lessons in the crystal-clear waters, or work on their backhand with a pro tennis coach, before sitting down to a meal prepared by a culinary team led by Michelin-starred chef Simon Dyer – if they’re not too full from snacking at the floating sushi bar. And don't think that all this luxury comes at the cost of sustainability – Necker Island meets 80% of its daily energy need with renewable sources, while Branson also has implemented conservation programs that benefit some of island's permanent residents, namely, the flamingos that call Necker home. 

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Burj Al Arab, Dubai

Dubai ’s Burj al Arab hotel has been not-so-quietly setting the "seven-star" standard for others to follow since it opened in 1999. Entirely comprising  luxury suites , the 321m-high, sail-shaped building claims to be the world’s most luxurious hotel, with 1790 sq metres of 24-carat gold leaf throughout, chauffeur-driven Rolls Royces for guest transport, and duvets made from feathers hand-collected from abandoned eider-duck nests in Iceland. Naturally only a Royal Suite will do: for a starting rate of US$1500 per night in low season, a private elevator glides you to 780 sq metres of opulence over two floors, including a library, cinema, chefs on hand to create a personalised menu and, of course, world-class round-the-clock butler service. 

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The Chedi Luštica Bay Hotel, Montenegro

While nearby Croatia has long has its ties to the billionaire set, it's only more recently that the super rich have turned their eyes and wallets towards Montenegro . The  Chedi Luštica is just two years old, set amidst a larger resort complex that includes five star vacation rental condominiums, two marinas, an assortment of private residences and, soon, Montenegro's first 18-hole championship golf course. But the real draw is its private beaches on Trašte Bay off the Adriatic and proximity to the UNESCO-protected Old Town of Kotor and  Boka Bay , giving those with deep pockets unique access to this off-the-beaten-path corner of the Balkans. 

The Chedi Luštica's penthouse suite is a "cavernous," sound-proofed 1765 square feet, with two bedrooms with ensuite baths, powder room off the living area, a dressing room, and a private balcony with ocean views, which will run you a cool US$14,000 for a week at the tail end of peak season, or about US$2,021 a night. 

Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas usually stays in Vegas, but art-loving guests at the Empathy Suite  in the Palms Casino Resort won’t want to keep quiet. Reserved for US$1 million high rollers or those who can pay the US$200,000 rate for a minimum two-night stay, the 835 sq metre suite was designed entirely – from the bedlinen to the cantilevered balcony pool overlooking the Las Vegas skyline – by British artist Damien Hirst. Grey marble and furnishings are offset by Hirst’s characteristic colourful dots, butterflies and pill motifs, and the suite displays six specially commissioned works by the artist including Winner/Loser (2018), two sharks preserved in his infamous style. Aside from the art, there’s a "healing salt room", a gym, two massage rooms and a 24-hour concierge.

Editor's note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Palms Casino Resort is closed until further notice.

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Royal Malewane Safari Lodge, South Africa 

Seeing the Big Five on safari in Africa is top of many people’s wish lists, but the Royal Malewane Safari Lodge , set in the 15,000-hectare Thornybush Private Game Reserve in South Africa ’s Greater Kruger National Park area, ensures the most exclusive experience for the discerning holidaymaker. Private game drives conducted by “the most qualified guides in Africa” guarantee an intimate insight into life on the savannah. Back at base, every need is catered for in sumptuous interiors accented by handcrafted Persian rugs and the finest antiques. The signature African Harmony massage treatment, carried out by two therapists in tandem at the award-winning spa, is essential for soothing weary muscles after a long day covering rough terrain. For the ultimate safari, exclusive use of the entire 46-bed lodge can be yours for US$77,000 per night.

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Yachting in the Mediterranean

Spending a summer sashaying between French, Spanish, Italian, and Croatian ports is peak frivolity, and hiring a full-service vessel to meander around the Mediterranean and rub shoulders with the Clooneys and Jay-Z starts at about US$50,000 per week – just don’t forget to factor in the marina fees. From around US$3150 per night during peak season, Italy ’s ultra-exclusive Portofino isn't the priciest place to park your luxury liner, but with only 16 moorings and one oft-closed road in and out of the pretty village, it’s reserved for the veriest of VIPs. The flashiest spot to splash the cruising cash is undoubtedly Monaco , though, commanding marina fees of around US$100,000 (depending on the size of your boat) to stay in the premier spots for the duration of the Grand Prix . 

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Heli-ski in Greenland from the MV Cloudbreak

Wealthy adrenaline junkies seeking thrills beyond the black runs of the French Alps might want to consider the ultimate winter sports adventure: chartering the ice-enduring super-yacht MV Cloudbreak for a week of heli-skiing in Greenland for up to 12 people. No chairlift, no problem: taking off from the on-board helipad, guests and their expert mountain guides will be airlifted to some of the most remote and inhospitable terrain on the planet. For all its Arctic-enduring credentials, the 75m luxury liner is the epitome of splendour inside, with exquisite furnishings, a glass elevator to move effortlessly between decks, a spa, fitness suite and cinema room. One high-octane week of yacht and helicopter experience will set you back around US$1 million.

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Billionaire Plans Dive to the Titanic in a Newly Designed Submersible

Larry Connor, 74, who made his wealth in real estate, said he’s building a new acrylic-hulled submersible that will be certified and rigorously tested to show that deep sea exploration is safe.

By Emily Schmall and Orlando Mayorquín

A real estate billionaire in Ohio is planning an underwater voyage to the site of the Titanic shipwreck, where a submersible imploded on its approach to the sea floor a year ago, killing all five passengers on board.

Shortly after the OceanGate disaster, Larry Connor, 74, a real estate investor and amateur adventurer, contacted the co-founder of Triton Submarines, Patrick Lahey, imploring him to build a submarine that could reach the depths of the Titanic safely and repeatedly, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The two men aim to explore and conduct scientific research at the site, located off the coast of Newfoundland, 12,500 feet under the sea, in a two-person submersible that Triton is designing in the summer of 2026.

“Ours is just not a trip to the Titanic,” Mr. Connor said in an interview on Tuesday. “It’s a research mission.”

“The other purpose is to demonstrate to people around the globe that you can build a revolutionary, first-of-its-kind sub and dive it safely and successfully to great depths,” he added.

The custom sub, which Mr. Connor plans to call “The Explorer — Return to the Titanic,” is still in the design phase and will be based on an existing submarine design that Mr. Lahey had worked on for years. It is listed on the Triton website as the Abyssal Explorer, an acrylic-hulled vessel than can reach depths of 13,000 feet, “the perfect submersible for repeated trips to the deep ocean.”

“Once subsurface, the submersible’s hydrodynamic shape — with wings folded — speeds the descent to 13,000 feet,” the company said on its website. “The journey takes less than two hours, significantly faster than previously possible.” It will be the first acrylic-hulled sub to reach such depths, Mr. Connor said, expanding the visibility of a deep-sea sub from small window portals and cameras to a 320-degree view.

“Frankly, the technology didn’t exist even six or eight years ago,” Mr. Connor said. “It’s only been with recent developments in the last five years that you could build this.”

An interview request with Mr. Lahey was referred to Mr. Connor’s spokesman, who said that only Mr. Connor would speak about the expedition.

Mr. Connor said his interest in venturing down to the Titanic in a new vessel stems from his broader interest in advancing ocean exploration, in this case by innovating the field's best tool — the submersible.

“The best way, in my limited experience, to explore the ocean, is in a submersible,” he said.

The final cost of the sub is still to be determined, but Mr. Connor said it would be in the millions.

Mr. Connor took great pains to contrast the submersible that he plans to use on his dive to the Titanic with that used in the deadly voyage to the sunken ship a year ago.

After the Titan disaster on June 18, 2023, criticism emerged from recreational and professional underwater explorers about the vessel’s cost-saving design choices .

The vessel disappeared under the dark waters of the North Atlantic, losing contact with its Canadian expedition ship on the surface, MV Polar Prince, about 400 miles south of St. John’s, Newfoundland, an hour and 45 minutes into its journey.

On board were Stockton Rush , 61, the founder and chief executive of OceanGate Expeditions, who was piloting the vessel; Hamish Harding , 58, a British businessman and explorer; Paul-Henri Nargeolet , 77, a French maritime expert; Shahzada Dawood , 48, a British Pakistani businessman; and his son, Suleman, 19.

Six days later, a multinational search ended with evidence of a catastrophic implosion that left no survivors.

Until the Titan disaster, no one had ever died while piloting or riding a submersible in the deep sea, a safety record that stood for nearly a century, despite explorers making many thousands of dives.

Mr. Connor contends that the OceanGate episode has hurt the submersible industry and tainted the public’s perceptions of attempts to innovate in the space.

“I’m concerned that people associate diving subs, especially new or different subs, with danger or tragedy,” Mr. Connor said.

Mr. Connor said he wanted to reassert the safety of well-made submersibles, certified (which the industry calls classified) by respected organizations that do rigorous testing. Mr. Connor says the sub would be certified, and take two and a half to three years to build.

OceanGate’s experimental Titan design was not certified, which Mr. Rush advertised as proof of the sub’s cutting-edge innovation even as industry experts expressed concern about the vessel’s safety.

Mr. Connor, on the other hand, said he had a reputation for never taking on “unacceptable risk.”

“If we can’t do it, what we call ‘s and s’ — safely and successfully — we’re just not going to do it,” Mr. Connor said. “We’re not thrill-seekers. We’re not big risk-takers.”

Mr. Connor is also a record-setting skydiver , astronaut and deep-sea explorer, who in 2021 joined Mr. Lahey on three deep dives in five days at the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean, some 200 miles off the coast of Guam. Their vessel, a Triton-built sub known as D.S.V. Limiting Factor, reached sea depths of about 35,000 feet, taller than Mount Everest.

In April 2022, Mr. Connor joined two other paying customers and a retired NASA astronaut on a SpaceX flight to the International Space Station, the first such mission manned only by private citizens and NASA’s first foray in space tourism.

During the eight-day mission, which cost Mr. Connor and the other two customers $55 million each, Mr. Connor and others conducted a series of research experiments in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic and other medical organizations.

An earlier version of this article incorrectly described a submersible safety record prior to the Titan submersible disaster. No one had died on a submersible in the deep sea, but there had been deaths on submersibles in shallower water.

How we handle corrections

Emily Schmall covers breaking news and feature stories and is based in Chicago. More about Emily Schmall

Orlando Mayorquín is a breaking news reporter, based in New York, and a member of the 2023-24 Times Fellowship class , a program for journalists early in their careers. More about Orlando Mayorquín

10 Dreamy Billionaire Vacation Destinations: Beyond the Ordinary

For those with money to burn and a thirst for travel, there’s an ever-growing list of billionaire vacation destinations offering stunning scenery, unique activities, and VIP treatment.

From exotic islands to curated experiences in chic cities, we’ll explore ten of the top getaways that billionaires enjoy when they indulge in their luxurious escape.

What is a Luxurious Billionaire Vacation Destination?

Luxury travel is a term that is often associated with something expensive, but it is more than just that. It is defined by quality, indulgence, exclusivity, and sustainability, with a focus on delivering a unique and personal service.

Luxury travelers want to experience the best that a destination has to offer and indulge in ultimate comfort and convenience. According to Hospitality Insights , luxury travel should revolve around the 5 C’s: culture, cuisine, community, content, and customization.

Cuisine is an essential component of luxury travel. Culinary experiences are not just about food, but also about learning the history and culture of a place through its cuisine. Luxury travelers seek out authentic culinary experiences that showcase the local flavors and ingredients.

If you are a billionaire, the sky’s the limit – and sometimes having serious coinage even kicks that maxim to the curb. Elon Musk has sold most of his homes and has his own rocket ships, no doubt he’ll be vacationing on Mars in the very near future.

The Billionaires’ Vacation Scene

Vacations look a little different for the world’s billionaire executives. Some own entire islands in Hawaii or the Caribbean, while others visit lavish vacation homes.

For Jeff Bezos and Eric Schmidt, cruising in a luxury yacht may be on the agenda. Many wealthy people pay anywhere from US$50,000 to over US$100,000 to have a luxury guide plan the ideal vacation for them, which can easily exceed US$1 million.

Necker Island , British Virgin Islands

Overview of the Island and its Luxuries Owned by billionaire Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island is a private island in the British Virgin Islands that has become a playground for the world’s wealthiest individuals when it comes to the hottest billionaire vacation spots on the planet.

The island boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and some of the most luxurious accommodations in the world.

Exclusive Accommodations Necker Island features a variety of exclusive accommodations, including the Great House, which is a Balinese-style villa that can accommodate up to 30 guests. The island also has several smaller villas and cottages that offer privacy and seclusion.

Activities and Experiences Guests of Necker Island can enjoy a wide range of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, tennis, and kiteboarding.

For a truly exclusive experience, visitors can charter a yacht to explore the surrounding waters or book a private helicopter tour of the island.

St. Moritz , Switzerland The resort town is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, restaurants, and designer boutiques. It’s also a hub for winter sports enthusiasts who come to enjoy the snow-covered slopes and stunning mountain views.

Monaco Nestled along the picturesque French Riviera lies Monaco, a coveted sovereign city-state, on the French Riviera haven for the affluent and discerning.

This luminous city-state exudes a lifestyle of sheer extravagance, boasting extravagant yachts, affirming this is a top billionaire vacation destination.

Michelin-starred dining, lavish casinos, and unparalleled accommodations that dazzle the senses. And with its tax-free status, the residents of Monaco indulge in their every whim without reservation, making it a destination of unapologetic opulence and indulgence.

The Hamptons , New York The Hamptons reign supreme as a lavish oasis for the elite in the United States, boasting pristine beaches with silky sand, exclusive eateries and watering holes, extravagant resorts, and chic designer shops.

This East Coast haven offers a tranquil sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple and ranks high as a go-to summer vacation spot. And if the stars align, you may just rub shoulders with the likes of Beyoncé and Jay-Z and their entourage.

Lake Como , Italy Lake Como is a breathtakingly beautiful destination in Italy that has been attracting the rich and famous for centuries. The stunning lake is surrounded by picturesque villages, elegant villas, and lush gardens.

It’s no wonder that celebrities like George Clooney , Madonna, and Richard Branson have all bought properties at Lake Como, and it continues to be one of the top billionaire vacation destinations on Earth.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to indulge in local cuisine and wine. The nearby vineyards offer wine tastings and tours for those interested in learning about the region’s winemaking traditions.

In the evenings, visitors can take a stroll along the lake promenade, listening to live music or watching street performers. And of course, no trip to the lake is complete without a boat tour to admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.

Marina di Portofino , Italy The small fishing village of Marina di Portofino has transformed into an exclusive retreat for the super-rich. With only one road for entry and exit, the village is accessible only by yacht or helicopter.

It offers exclusive amenities such as private beaches, high-end restaurants, and luxury villas . Popular guests at Marina di Portofino include Steven Spielberg, Andrey Melnichenko, and Rihanna. Italy is a stunning country, which is why so many places in Italy just scream this is the vacation destination for billionaires.

Overview of the Island and its Luxuries The Maldives is a group of islands located in the Indian Ocean that has become a popular vacation spot for billionaires.

The islands are known for their crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and luxurious accommodations. It’s also at the top of our list of best winter beach getaways .

Exclusive Accommodations The Maldives offers some of the most exclusive accommodations in the world, including private overwater villas with infinity pools, personal chefs, and butlers. Some of the most exclusive resorts in the Maldives include Soneva Fushi, Cheval Blanc Randheli, and One&Only Reethi Rah.

Activities and Experiences In the Maldives, billionaires on vacation can enjoy a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

For a truly exclusive experience, visitors can charter a yacht to explore the surrounding waters or book a private seaplane tour of the islands.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates Known for its opulence and extravagance, Dubai offers some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, such as the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm. Visitors can indulge in high-end shopping, fine dining, and extravagant experiences like helicopter tours.

Aspen , united states.

Aspen is a renowned ski destination and is famous for its luxurious resorts and high-end boutiques. The town boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the country, with sprawling mansions and chalets along what’s known as “Billionaire’s Row.”

Aspen offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. Aspen is also home to exclusive clubs and restaurants that cater to the wealthy.

St. Barths , Caribbean

Overview of the Island and its Luxuries The Caribbean island of St. Barths has long been a favorite vacation spot for billionaires. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and French-inspired cuisine. St. Barths is also home to some of the most exclusive luxury resorts and villas in the world.

Exclusive Accommodations St. Barths boasts some of the most luxurious accommodations in the world, including private villas with infinity pools, personal chefs, and butlers.

Some of the most exclusive resorts on the island include the Eden Rock St. Barths, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France, and Le Sereno.

Activities and Experiences There is no shortage of things to do in St. Barts. From snorkeling and scuba diving to shopping and dining at world-class restaurants, billionaires can enjoy a wide range of activities on the island.

Courchevel , France

Overview of the Ski Resort and its Luxuries Courchevel is a ski resort located in the French Alps that has become a favorite vacation spot for billionaires. The resort is known for its world-class skiing, luxurious accommodations, and upscale dining options.

Exclusive Accommodations Courchevel offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in the world, including private chalets with personal chefs, butlers, and spa facilities.

Some of the most exclusive resorts in Courchevel include Les Airelles, Cheval Blanc, and Hotel Barriere Les Neiges.

Activities and Experiences As a world-class ski resort, Courchevel offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other winter sports, such as ice skating, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. For a truly exclusive experience, visitors can book a private helicopter tour of the surrounding mountains.

Giza and Cairo, Egypt

Egypt Tourism for Billionaires: Now Becoming The Ultimate Luxury Travel Spot Egypt is a land of mystery and wonders, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years.

It’s no wonder why tourists from all over the world flock here to explore its ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

For the super-rich, however, Egypt offers something more – an immersive experience in ancient culture and the upcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum . Although still not fully completed, tickets will cost around US$2,000 to enter this architectural and cultural marvel.

Cruises Down the Nile No trip to Egypt is complete without a cruise down the Nile River. For billionaires, however, this experience is taken to a whole new level of luxury. Here, you’ll find private yachts and boats that are equipped with every imaginable amenity, from gourmet dining options to personal butlers.

As you sail down the river, you’ll be able to take in some of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks, including the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Abu Simbel temples. It’s an experience that is truly unforgettable.

Luxury Resorts on the Red Sea Coast For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Cairo, Egypt’s Red Sea coast is an excellent option. Here, you’ll find some of the most exclusive beach resorts in the world, with private beaches, world-class spas, and top-notch dining options.

For the ultimate in luxury, the rich and famous prefer staying at one of the region’s many five-star resorts, such as the Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh or the Ritz-Carlton, Sharm El Sheikh, offering one of the most diving spots on the planet.

Curated Experiences for Billionaire Vacation Destinations

Private Yacht Charters One of the most exclusive ways to vacation like a billionaire is by chartering a private yacht. This allows travelers to explore some of the world’s most beautiful destinations in complete luxury and privacy.

Many top-notch yachts come with a full crew, including personal chefs and butlers, ensuring that guests can relax and enjoy their holiday without having to worry about anything. The Galapagos offer bespoke small ship tours for a more intimate tour of the islands.

If you’re Jeff Bezos, you’ll most likely vacation on your $500 million triple-masted, superyacht called the Koru.

On the other hand, Elon Musk prefers to visit superyachts owned by the likes of David Geffen for a little R&R, so much easier than owning and maintaining these floating cities.

Private Jet Tours Another way billionaires like to vacation in style is by embarking on a private jet tour. These tours offer a completely customized travel experience, allowing visitors to explore multiple destinations in a short amount of time. Nothing like traveling like the Roys .

Private jet tours often include access to exclusive events, guided tours, and one-of-a-kind cultural experiences.

Luxury Safari Trips For those who prefer to connect with nature, luxury safari trips offer an exclusive way to explore the world’s most stunning wildlife destinations.

Accommodations can range from lavish tented camps to ultra-luxurious lodges, and many safari trips include personalized experiences such as private game drives, hot air balloon rides, and bespoke dining experiences.

The Future of Billionaire Travel

As more people join the ranks of the ultra-wealthy, the demand for exclusive vacation experiences will continue to grow. This may lead to an increase in the number of luxury hotels, resorts, and experiences catering specifically to this market.

Additionally, we may see emerging destinations gaining popularity among billionaires, as they seek new and exciting places to explore.

Hotels in Space – They’re Coming

Space tourism is now a thing, as we saw with Japanese Billionaire Yusaku Maezawa offering a chance for someone to win a trip to the moon with him. Guess it was just a matter of time before someone outdid Willy Wonka. And how about those handsome space suits Richard Branson created? It’s obvious he has his eye on the sky- and beyond.

Final Thoughts on Billionaire Vacation Destinations The world of billionaire vacations is truly unique and exclusive, with the wealthiest individuals seeking out customized, one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the most beautiful locations on Earth.

While many of these destinations and experiences may be out of reach for the average traveler, it’s fascinating to gain insight into how the ultra-rich vacation and what makes these trips so special.

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Billionaire plans to take submersible to Titanic nearly one year after OceanGate implosion

Nearly one year after the OceanGate Titan submersible disaster gripped the nation, another ambitious businessman is looking to make the same trip.

Larry Connor, an Ohio businessman and billionaire , told The Wall Street Journal last week about his plans to prove that a dive to the Titanic wreckage site can be done safely when proper engineering is employed.

Shortly after news broke in June 2023 of the Titan's suspected implosion, Connor called up Triton Submarine's CEO Patrick Lahey, who had publicly criticized OceanGate's safety practices and called its CEO "predatory," and insisted they could and should make something better.

“[Connor said], you know, what we need to do is build a sub that can dive to [Titanic-level depths] repeatedly and safely and demonstrate to the world that you guys can do that, and that Titan was a contraption,’” Lahey told The Wall Street Journal.

Connor and Triton Subs did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Here's what we know so far about the newest Titanic-bound submersible.

Who is Larry Connor?

Larry Connor is an entrepreneur and founder of The Connor Group , a luxury real estate company based in Dayton, Ohio. His net worth is $2 billion, according to  Forbes , while Connor Group’s real estate portfolio is worth $5 billion.

Connor is a known explorer, having previously voyaged to the  Mariana Trench  and  International Space Station , told news outlets he wants to prove that a deep-sea submersible can be made safely and such a trip can be done "without disaster."

“I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is extremely powerful, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way,” Connor told The Wall Street Journal.

The date of the intended dive has not yet been announced.

Triton Submarines' $20 million submersible

Connor told the Wall Street Journal he would be working with Triton Submarines, a company that builds submersibles for sea exploration at various depths.

The trip will use the Triton 4000/2 "Abyss Explorer." With a $20 million price tag, the two-person craft is described on the Triton website as “the world’s deepest diving acrylic sub," boasting the ability to descend over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).

Lahey, the CEO, co-founded Triton with the now-retired Bruce Jones, the former of whom plans to accompany Connor on his mission, the Wall Street Journal reported.

“Patrick has been thinking about and designing this for over a decade," Connor told the outlet. "But we didn’t have the materials and technology. You couldn’t have built this sub five years ago.”

What happened to the OceanGate Titan submersible?

On June 18, 2023, five people boarded a submersible created by the company OceanGate to visit the Titanic wreckage site 12,500 feet (3,800 meters) under the water.

This was OceanGate Expeditions' third annual voyage to the site, and each passenger paid $250,000 for the opportunity to view the wreckage, according to an archived itinerary of the mission.

Aboard the submersible was British businessman Hamish Harding; Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, members of one of Pakistan's most prominent families; French explorer and Titanic expert Paul-Henry Nargeolet; and OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush.

The vessel was heavily scrutinized before departure for its design, made of carbon fiber and titanium and measured in at about 9 feet high, 8 feet tall, and 22 feet wide. The craft was said to have been piloted with a video game controller .

The submersible was not up to the task and imploded on its way down to the ocean floor. Communication between the Titan and its mothership stopped about 90 minutes into the trip. It is assumed the destruction of the vessel happened soon after.

A massive rescue mission ensued . Ultimately, The Titan's debris were found in five large parts on the sea floor about 1,600 feet from the Titanic's bow and the passengers were declared officially lost on June 22. Some human remains were later recovered.

Contributing: Haadiza Ogwude and Jason Rossi , Cincinnati Enquirer

The Billionaires Travel Guide: Here's How The Ultra-Rich Travel

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The Highest-Grossing Celine Dion Songs Of All Time, Ranked

Suit cast net worth, ranked from lowest to highest., bank-busting beats: the highest-grossing concert tours of all time, quick links, completely tailored travel experiences, member's club luxury vacations, long trips away from home, off-the-radar vacations, luxury yacht trips, traveling around in private jets.

There has never been a time in history when it has been simpler for a common person to experience what it is like to live the life of a billionaire , at least for a few days, than in this day and age with AirBnB and affordable flights to pretty much everywhere on the planet. Anyone on an ordinary salary can now afford to stay in even the most opulent rooms at some of the world's most exclusive hotels.

On the other hand, a weekend spent at Le Bristol or a few days spent lazing away on a beach in Thailand won't cut it for the 1% of society these days. The wealthiest people in the world have truly different travel patterns in comparison to the rest of the world, and they experience the world in an altogether unique manner. Continue reading this billionaires' travel guide to find out how the ultra-rich travel.

Rich people aren't content to just pick up a copy of Lonely Planet and try to piece together an itinerary on their own. They want an experience that is unique to them and curated by people who have impeccable taste and extensive industry expertise. Many wealthy people, before embarking on their holiday, will pay anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000 to have a luxury guide plan the ideal vacation for them. This may include everything from dining at Michelin-starred restaurants to participating in one-of-a-kind private cultural excursions. Everything will be planned out without them having to do anything at all.

It is a common misconception that wealthy people frequently engage in solo travel . Even though they may arrive via private jet, ultra-wealthy travelers often like to travel in large groups and participate in social activities throughout their vacations. Obviously, this does not mean that you should book a vacation package if you are under the age of 30 and want to go on a group tour. Many will sign up for membership in exclusive private members' clubs, such as a VIP casino club that caters to high rollers and people who wish to go to places like Miami Beach, Iceland, and the Bahamas in the company of other well-off travelers with similar interests. Even a vacation can be used to meet new people and build professional relationships.

RELATED: A Haven Of The Rich: What Makes Monaco One Of The Most Expensive Countries In The World

Aside from wealth, time is another luxury that those in the top 1% of the income distribution enjoy in excess. Traveling to Budapest for five days won't provide the wealthy with the cultural enrichment they seek because they are aware of this fact. They would often plan to stay in one place for anywhere from four weeks to six months at a time, which will enable them to completely submerge themselves in the culture and experience life as if they were a native. There is a multitude of businesses that cater to this market that specialize in providing wealthy globetrotters with long-term, luxurious accommodation.

Paris, New York, Milan, or Venice likely come to mind when you think of luxurious vacations. Nevertheless, the wealthy do not typically consider these major tourist spots as vacation destinations since they prefer to avoid crowds. The wealthy have a tendency to stay in locations that very few tourists have ever heard of, let alone visited. In case you were curious, the current hot locations for the ultra-rich are Isfahan in Iran, Lima in Peru, Tbilisi in Georgia, and Seydisfjordur in Iceland.

RELATED: Sail The Ocean With The $250 Million Superyacht Of UFC Owner Frank Fertitta III

If you want to get around on a yacht without being popular or wealthy, your only option is to hire one for the day and pay a significant sum of money for the luxury of doing so. Individuals (most of the time) put in a lot of effort to earn their money, and they want to spend it in a way that is going to leave them with a positive mental attitude about themselves. A yacht is rather effective at doing that, and before you question, no, it really doesn't matter how big it is because, no matter how you spin it, a yacht is still a yacht, and that's extremely awesome.

The phrase " traveling in style " should not be confused with this. Your private jet is still considered a private jet despite the fact that it may not be the largest thing in the world. The rich and famous, even those who take several journeys on it every single day, week, month, or year, probably aren't blind to the privilege of being one of the only individuals a jet caters to. There is no point in attempting to hide the fact that this is the choice that the majority of us will be quite envious of. A private jet is the ultimate method of travel.

You should know that if you actually want to travel the globe like a billionaire , all you need to do is book a vacation to eastern Iceland for six months, where you will be accompanied by other billionaires and your every day will be meticulously planned out for you.

READ NEXT: Paris Of The East: What Makes Baku One Of The Most Expensive & Luxurious Cities For Travelers

Sources: LUX Magazine , Telegraph , TravelExperta

• Luxury Lifestyle
• The Rich & Powerful

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‘Annual sacrifice to the sea gods’: Billionaire savaged after announcing new submersible trip to the Titanic

Billionaires gonna billionaire..

Katherine Huggins

Posted on May 28, 2024

Nearly one year after the fatal implosion of an OceanGate submersible en route to view the wreck of the Titanic, a billionaire from Ohio is gearing up to prove that the industry is actually safe.

“I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is extremely powerful, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way,” Larry Connor told the Wall Street Journal .

Connor—who himself has visited the Mariana Trench—is hoping to assuage concerns about the industry, after OceanGate’s Titan submersible imploded last June, killing its five passengers. OceanGate carried out about a dozen successful dives to the wreckage site before its implosion.

Connor, a real estate investor, is set to travel with Triton Submarines founder Patrick Lahey, an experienced sub pilot who has visited the deepest point in the ocean—more than 35,000 feet below surface level.

In the Wall Street Journal report about the upcoming expedition, Triton and others in the industry sought to differentiate themselves from OceanGate by highlighting the differences between “classed”—certified as safe and up to code—and “unclassed” subs, which Titan was.

While the Triton sub that will carry Connor and Lahey will be classed and unlike Titan, is not made from experimental designs and materials such as carbon fiber that are prone to cracking over time, the general public is not optimistic about the endeavors.

“I could be down for an annual sacrifice of billionaires to the sea gods tbh,” one person wrote in a viral X post that has been viewed almost three million times.

OceanGate’s implosion prompted a similar flurry of memes and anti-billionaire discourse, driven by the expedition’s $250,000 price tag.

“yes yes more billionaires should try. all of them maybe,” quipped one account over Connor’s announcement.

“At this point, it just feels like the Titanic is eating the rich,” joked one account.

“What’s the worst that could happen?” someone else asked sarcastically.

“I am so sick of sequels,” quipped another person.

“There’s gotta be an easier way to get rid of billionaires but this is certainly the most dramatic way,” wrote someone else.

The internet is chaotic—but we’ll break it down for you in one daily email. Sign up for the Daily Dot’s web_crawlr newsletter  here  to get the best (and worst) of the internet straight into your inbox.

*First Published: May 28, 2024, 9:29 am CDT

Katherine Huggins is a New York-based journalist and freelance contributor to the Daily Dot’s tech and politics section. She helps cover the United Nations for the Japanese newspaper Mainichi and previously reported on the 2022 midterm elections for Marketwatch. Her work has appeared in USA Today, Forbes, OpenSecrets and more.

Forbes World’s Billionaires List 2024: The Top 200

Here are the wealthiest people on forbes' annual rich list., edited by rob lafranco , grace chung and chase peterson-withorn.

W hat a year it’s been for the planet’s billionaires , whose fortunes continue to swell as global stock markets shrug off war, political unrest and lingering inflation. There are now more billionaires than ever: 2,781 in all, 141 more than last year and 26 more than the record set in 2021. They’re richer than ever, worth $14.2 trillion in aggregate, up by $2 trillion from 2023 and $1.1 trillion above the previous record, also set in 2021. Two-thirds of the list’s members are worth more than a year ago; only one fourth are poorer. Much of the gains come from the top 20, who added a combined $700 billion in wealth since 2023, and from the U.S., which now boasts a record 813 billionaires worth a combined $5.7 trillion. China remains second, with 473 (including Hong Kong) worth $1.7 trillion, despite weak consumer spending and a real estate bust that helped wipe out some $300 billion in wealth. India, which has 200 billionaires (also a record), ranks third. To calculate net worths, we used stock prices and exchange rates from March 8, 2024. See below for the full list of the world’s billionaires and our methodology. For daily updated net worths of all 2,781 billionaires, check out our real-time billionaires rankings .

Here are the 200 richest people in the world on the 2024 Forbes list.

Information is as of march 8, 2024., 1. bernard arnault & family, net worth: $233 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, bernard arnault oversees the lvmh empire of 75 fashion and cosmetics brands, including louis vuitton and sephora., 2. elon musk, net worth: $195 billion | age: 52 | country/territory: united states | industry: automotive, elon musk cofounded six companies, including electric car maker tesla, rocket producer spacex and tunneling startup boring company., 3. jeff bezos, net worth: $194 billion | age: 60 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, jeff bezos founded e-commerce giant amazon in 1994 out of his seattle garage., 4. mark zuckerberg, net worth: $177 billion | age: 39 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, a 19-year-old mark zuckerberg started facebook in 2004 for students to match names with photos of classmates., 5. larry ellison, net worth: $141 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, larry ellison is chairman, chief technology officer and cofounder of software giant oracle, of which he owns just under 40%., 6. warren buffett, net worth: $133 billion | age: 93 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, known as the "oracle of omaha," warren buffett is one of the most successful investors of all time., 7. bill gates, net worth: $128 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, bill gates diversified his fortune from software firm microsoft into dozens of holdings, including waste disposal firm republic services and tractor maker deere & co., 8. steve ballmer, net worth: $121 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, steve ballmer is the high-wattage former ceo of microsoft, who led the company from 2000 to 2014., 9. mukesh ambani, net worth: $116 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: india | industry: diversified, mukesh ambani chairs and runs $110 billion (revenue) reliance industries, which has interests in petrochemicals, oil and gas, telecom, retail and financial services., 10. larry page, net worth: $114 billion | age: 51 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, larry page stepped down as ceo of alphabet, the parent company of google, in 2019 but remains a board member and a controlling shareholder., 11. sergey brin, net worth: $110 billion | age: 50 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, sergey brin stepped down as president of alphabet, parent company of google, in december 2019 but remains a board member and a controlling shareholder., 12. michael bloomberg, net worth: $106 billion | age: 82 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, michael bloomberg cofounded financial information and media company bloomberg lp in 1981., 13. amancio ortega, net worth: $103 billion | age: 88 | country/territory: spain | industry: fashion & retail, amancio ortega of spain is one of the wealthiest clothing retailers in the world., 14. carlos slim helu & family, net worth: $102 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: mexico | industry: telecom, mexico's richest person, carlos slim helú and his family control américa móvil, latin america's biggest mobile telecom firm., 15. francoise bettencourt meyers & family, net worth: $99.5 billion | age: 70 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, francoise bettencourt meyers, the granddaughter of the founder of l'oreal, is the richest woman in the world., 16. michael dell, net worth: $91 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, michael dell is chairman and ceo of dell technologies, which formed in 2016 via dell's $60 billion merger with computer storage giant emc., 17. gautam adani, net worth: $84 billion | age: 61 | country/territory: india | industry: diversified, gautam adani is chairman of the $32 billion (revenue) adani group, with interests in ports, airports, power generation and transmission, and green energy, among others., 18. jim walton & family, net worth: $78.4 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, jim walton is the youngest son of walmart founder sam walton., 19. rob walton & family, net worth: $77.4 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, rob walton is the eldest son of walmart founder sam walton., 20. jensen huang, net worth: $77 billion | age: 61 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, jensen huang cofounded graphics-chip maker nvidia in 1993, and has served as its ceo and president ever since., 21. alice walton, net worth: $72.3 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, alice walton is the only daughter of walmart founder sam walton., 22. david thomson & family, net worth: $67.8 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: canada | industry: media & entertainment, david thomson and his family control a media and publishing empire founded by his grandfather roy thomson., 23. julia koch & family, net worth: $64.3 billion | age: 61 | country/territory: united states | industry: diversified, julia koch and her three children inherited a 42% stake in koch industries from her husband, david, who died in 2019 at age 79., 24. zhong shanshan, net worth: $62.3 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: china | industry: food & beverage, zhong shanshan is the founder and chairman of nongfu spring, a bottled water company that listed its shares in hong kong in september 2020., 25. charles koch & family, net worth: $58.5 billion | age: 88 | country/territory: united states | industry: diversified, charles koch has been chairman of koch industries, america's second largest private company by revenue, since 1967. he brought on his first ever co-ceo in 2023., 26. giovanni ferrero, net worth: $43.8 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: italy | industry: food & beverage, giovanni ferrero is executive chairman of his family's namesake confections business, which posted $18 billion sales in 2023., 27. prajogo pangestu, net worth: $43.4 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: indonesia | industry: diversified, son of a rubber trader, prajogo pangestu got his start in the timber business in the late 1970s., 27. zhang yiming, net worth: $43.4 billion | age: 40 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, zhang yiming is the main founder of chinese tech giant bytedance, best known for its insanely popular app tiktok, which has more than 1 billion users worldwide., 29. tadashi yanai & family, net worth: $42.8 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: japan | industry: fashion & retail, tadashi yanai built and runs tokyo-listed retail clothing empire fast retailing, parent of the uniqlo chain., 30. phil knight & family, net worth: $40.9 billion | age: 86 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, phil knight, cofounder of shoe giant nike, retired as chairman in 2016 after 52 years at the company., 31. mark mateschitz, net worth: $39.6 billion | age: 31 | country/territory: austria | industry: food & beverage, mark mateschitz is the only child of the late austrian billionaire dietrich mateschitz, who cofounded energy drink firm red bull in 1987., 32. klaus-michael kuehne, net worth: $39.2 billion | age: 86 | country/territory: germany | industry: logistics, logistics magnate klaus-michael kuehne is honorary chairman of kuehne + nagel international ag, based in switzerland., 33. colin huang, net worth: $38.9 billion | age: 44 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, colin huang is the founder of pdd holdings, the chinese e-commerce company that changed its name from pinduoduo in february 2023., 34. stephen schwarzman, net worth: $38.8 billion | age: 77 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, the son of a dry goods store owner, stephen schwarzman founded private equity firm blackstone with fellow billionaire peter peterson in 1985., 35. jacqueline mars, net worth: $38.5 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: united states | industry: food & beverage, jacqueline mars owns an estimated one-third of mars, the candy, food and pet care firm founded by her grandfather., 35. john mars, net worth: $38.5 billion | age: 88 | country/territory: united states | industry: food & beverage, john mars and his siblings jacqueline and forrest jr. (d. 2016) inherited stakes in the candy firm mars when their father died in 1999., 37. dieter schwarz, net worth: $38 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: germany | industry: fashion & retail, dieter schwarz's schwarz group, with revenue of over $160 billion, is comprised of the kaufland and lidl (rhymes with needle) discount supermarkets., 38. li ka-shing, net worth: $37.3 billion | age: 95 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: diversified, nicknamed superman, li ka-shing is revered as one of the most influential businessmen in asia., 39. shiv nadar, net worth: $36.9 billion | age: 78 | country/territory: india | industry: technology, indian it pioneer shiv nadar cofounded hcl in a garage in 1976 to make calculators and microprocessors with five friends., 40. alain wertheimer, net worth: $36.8 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, alain wertheimer is the chairman of chanel, the french luxury brand., 40. gerard wertheimer, net worth: $36.8 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, gerard wertheimer and his brother alain own french luxury brand chanel., 42. ken griffin, net worth: $36.4 billion | age: 55 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, ken griffin founded and runs citadel, a miami-based hedge fund firm that manages $59 billion in assets., 43. mackenzie scott, net worth: $35.6 billion | age: 53 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, mackenzie scott is a philanthropist, author and the ex-wife of amazon founder jeff bezos, to whom she was married for 25 years. as part of their 2019 divorce, she received a 4% stake in the online retailer., 44. thomas peterffy, net worth: $34 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, a digital trading pioneer, thomas peterffy chairs interactive brokers, which markets its specialized trading platform to sophisticated investors., 45. reinhold wuerth & family, net worth: $33.6 billion | age: 88 | country/territory: germany | industry: manufacturing, reinhold wuerth entered his father's wholesale screw business in 1949, at age 14, as the company's second employee and first apprentice., 46. william ding, net worth: $33.5 billion | age: 52 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, william ding is the ceo of netease, one of the world's largest online games companies., 46. savitri jindal & family, net worth: $33.5 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: india | industry: metals & mining, jindal group, whose interests include steel, power, cement and infrastructure, is chaired by savitri jindal, widow of founder om prakash jindal., 48. gianluigi aponte, net worth: $33.1 billion | age: 83 | country/territory: switzerland | industry: logistics, gianluigi aponte and his wife rafaela each own a 50% stake in msc, the world's largest shipping line., 48. rafaela aponte-diamant, net worth: $33.1 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: switzerland | industry: logistics, rafaela aponte-diamant and her husband gianluigi each own a 50% stake in msc, the world's largest shipping line., 50. changpeng zhao, net worth: $33 billion | age: 47 | country/territory: canada | industry: finance & investments, changpeng zhao, who goes by cz, is the founder and former ceo of binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world., 51. masayoshi son, net worth: $32.7 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: japan | industry: finance & investments, masayoshi son founded and runs investment giant softbank group., 52. len blavatnik, net worth: $32.1 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: united states | industry: diversified, born in ukraine, raised north of moscow, len blavatnik immigrated to the u.s. in 1978 with his family; he studied computer science at columbia university and received an mba from harvard business school., 53. miriam adelson & family, net worth: $32 billion | age: 78 | country/territory: united states | industry: gambling & casinos, miriam adelson is the widow of sheldon adelson, the former ceo and chairman of casino company las vegas sands, who died at 87 in 2021., 54. françois pinault & family, net worth: $31.6 billion | age: 87 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, françois pinault is honorary chairman of luxury group kering, which owns fashion brands saint laurent, alexander mcqueen and gucci., 55. jim simons, net worth: $31.4 billion | age: 85 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, jim simons is the founder of renaissance technologies, an esteemed quantitative trading hedge fund firm that manages about $50 billion., 56. gina rinehart, net worth: $30.8 billion | age: 70 | country/territory: australia | industry: metals & mining, australia's richest citizen, gina rinehart built her wealth on iron ore., 57. ma huateng, net worth: $30.2 billion | age: 52 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, ma huateng (also known as pony ma) chairs chinese internet giant tencent holdings., 58. abigail johnson, net worth: $29 billion | age: 62 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, abigail johnson has served as ceo of fidelity investments since 2014, when she took over for her father, and has been chairman since 2016., 59. vagit alekperov, net worth: $28.6 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: russia | industry: energy, a former caspian sea oil rig worker, vagit alekperov became a deputy minister overseeing the oil industry in the soviet union., 60. eduardo saverin, net worth: $28 billion | age: 42 | country/territory: brazil | industry: technology, eduardo saverin cofounded meta platforms, formerly facebook, with harvard classmate mark zuckerberg in 2004., 60. lukas walton, net worth: $28 billion | age: 37 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, lukas walton is a grandson of walmart founder sam walton; he's an investor in businesses tackling environmental and social challenges., 62. germán larrea mota velasco & family, net worth: $27.9 billion | age: 70 | country/territory: mexico | industry: metals & mining, germán larrea mota velasco owns the majority of mexico's largest copper mining company, grupo méxico, which also has operations in perú and the u.s., 63. lee shau kee, net worth: $27.7 billion | age: 96 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: real estate, lee shau kee cofounded property developer sun hung kai with kwok tak-seng, the late father of hong kong's billionaire kwok brothers., 64. jeff yass, net worth: $27.6 billion | age: 65 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, jeff yass is a cofounder of susquehanna international group, one of wall street's largest and most successful trading firms., 65. andrea pignataro, net worth: $27.5 billion | age: 53 | country/territory: italy | industry: finance & investments, andrea pignataro is the founder and ceo of ion group, a london-based financial data and technology firm., 66. low tuck kwong, net worth: $27.4 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: indonesia | industry: energy, known as the coal king, singapore-born low tuck kwong is the founder of bayan resources, a coal mining company in indonesia., 66. leonid mikhelson & family, net worth: $27.4 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: russia | industry: energy, leonid mikhelson is the founder and chairman of natural gas producer novatek., 68. stefan quandt, net worth: $27.3 billion | age: 57 | country/territory: germany | industry: automotive, stefan quandt owns 23.6% of automaker bmw; his sister, susanne klatten, the richest woman in germany, owns 19.1%., 69. dilip shanghvi, net worth: $26.7 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: india | industry: healthcare, the son of a pharmaceuticals distributor, dilip shanghvi borrowed $200 from his father to start sun pharmaceutical industries in 1983 to make psychiatric drugs., 70. vladimir lisin, net worth: $26.6 billion | age: 67 | country/territory: russia | industry: metals & mining, vladimir lisin is chairman of nlmk group, a leading manufacturer of steel products., 71. r. budi hartono, net worth: $26.5 billion | age: 83 | country/territory: indonesia | industry: finance & investments, r. budi hartono and his brother, michael (whose fortune is listed separately), are among the richest in indonesia., 71. susanne klatten, net worth: $26.5 billion | age: 61 | country/territory: germany | industry: automotive, susanne klatten owns about 19% of automaker bmw; her brother, stefan quandt, owns nearly 24%., 73. thomas frist jr & family, net worth: $26.2 billion | age: 85 | country/territory: united states | industry: healthcare, thomas frist jr., a former air force flight surgeon, founded hospital corp. of america with his father in 1968., 73. daniel gilbert, net worth: $26.2 billion | age: 62 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, dan gilbert cofounded what would become quicken loans, the largest mortgage lender in the u.s., in 1985 at 22 years old., 75. iris fontbona & family, net worth: $25.7 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: chile | industry: metals & mining, iris fontbona is the widow of andrónico luksic, who built a fortune in mining and beverages before dying of cancer in 2005., 76. emmanuel besnier, net worth: $25.5 billion | age: 53 | country/territory: france | industry: food & beverage, emmanuel besnier is the controlling shareholder of family-held lactalis, the world's largest dairy conglomerate, with more than $30 billion in annual revenues., 76. michael hartono, net worth: $25.5 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: indonesia | industry: manufacturing, michael "bambang" hartono and his brother r. budi are among the richest in indonesia., 76. alexey mordashov & family, net worth: $25.5 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: russia | industry: metals & mining, alexey mordashov is the majority shareholder in steel company severstal, which he ran as ceo for 19 years before resigning in 2015., 79. john menard jr, net worth: $25.2 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, john menard's home improvement retailer menards brings in an estimated $13 billion in sales from more than 300 stores., 80. he xiangjian & family, net worth: $25.1 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: china | industry: manufacturing, entrepreneur he xiangjian built midea group into one of the world's largest appliance makers., 81. jack ma, net worth: $24.5 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, a former english teacher, jack ma cofounded alibaba group, now one of the world's largest e-commerce businesses, in 1999., 81. elaine marshall & family, net worth: $24.5 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: united states | industry: diversified, elaine marshall owns an estimated 16% of $125 billion (2022 sales) conglomerate koch industries with her two sons., 83. autry stephens, net worth: $24.3 billion | age: 86 | country/territory: united states | industry: energy, oil tycoon autry stephens started a sole proprietor business in texas and drilled his first well in 1979., 84. eyal ofer, net worth: $24 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: israel | industry: diversified, eyal ofer is the chairman of the monaco-based ofer global, active in shipping, real estate, technology, banking, energy and other investments., 85. vladimir potanin, net worth: $23.7 billion | age: 63 | country/territory: russia | industry: metals & mining, vladimir potanin acquired a stake in norilsk nickel during russia's privatization in 1995; today he owns just over a third of the company., 86. gennady timchenko, net worth: $23.4 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: russia | industry: energy, gennady timchenko has stakes in various russian businesses, including gas company novatek and petrochemical producer sibur holding., 87. takemitsu takizaki, net worth: $23.1 billion | age: 78 | country/territory: japan | industry: manufacturing, takemitsu takizaki is the founder of keyence, a supplier of sensors and electronic components for factory automation systems., 88. vinod adani, net worth: $23 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: cyprus | industry: diversified, vinod adani is the older brother of gautam adani, who was at one point, the world's third richest person., 89. robin zeng, net worth: $22.9 billion | age: 55 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: automotive, robin zeng is the founder and chairman of contemporary amperex technology (catl), one of the world's largest suppliers of batteries for electric vehicles., 90. cyrus poonawalla, net worth: $21.3 billion | age: 82 | country/territory: india | industry: healthcare, son of a horse breeder, cyrus poonawalla founded serum institute of india in 1966 and built it into the world's largest vaccine maker (by doses)., 91. andrey melnichenko & family, net worth: $21.1 billion | age: 52 | country/territory: russia | industry: metals & mining industrialist, andrey melnichenko is the founder of fertilizer producer eurochem and coal energy company suek., 92. diane hendricks, net worth: $20.9 billion | age: 77 | country/territory: united state s | industry: construction & engineering, diane hendricks chairs abc supply, one of the largest wholesale distributors of roofing, siding and windows in america., 92. kushal pal singh, net worth: $20.9 billion | age: 92 | country/territory: india | industry: real estate, property baron kushal pal singh left an army posting in 1961 to join dlf, a company started by his father-in-law in 1946., 94. vicky safra & family, net worth: $20.6 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: brazil | industry: finance & investments, vicky safra and her four adult children inherited their fortune from her late husband and their father, banker joseph safra, who died in december 2020., 94. eric schmidt, net worth: $20.6 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, eric schmidt left the board of google parent company alphabet in june 2019 after 18 years; he stayed on as a technical advisor until february 2020., 94. david tepper, net worth: $20.6 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, david tepper, arguably the greatest hedge fund manager of his generation, founded appaloosa management in 1993., 97. steve cohen, net worth: $19.8 billion | age: 67 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, steve cohen oversees point72 asset management, a $30.6 billion hedge fund firm that started managing outside capital in 2018., 98. kumar birla, net worth: $19.7 billion | age: 56 | country/territory: india | industry: diversified, commodities king kumar birla is the fourth generation head of the storied, $65 billion (revenue) aditya birla group. more than half is generated outside india, where it has a presence in 41 countries., 99. rick cohen & family, net worth: $19.6 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, rick cohen is owner and executive chairman of c&s wholesale grocers, the nation's largest grocery wholesaler, with $33 billion in annual revenue., 100. rupert murdoch & family, net worth: $19.5 billion | age: 93 | country/territory: united states | industry: media & entertainment, rupert murdoch built a media empire that includes cable channel fox news, the times of london and the wall street journal. he stepped down as chairman in september 2023., 101. andrew forrest & family, net worth: $19 billion | age: 62 | country/territory: australia | industry: metals & mining, andrew forrest founded fortescue metals group in 2003. it's an iron ore giant which is now transforming itself into a green energy powerhouse., 102. harold hamm & family, net worth: $18.5 billion | age: 78 | country/territory: united states | industry: energy, fracking pioneer harold hamm founded and chairs continental resources, one of the nation's biggest independent oil companies., 103. dustin moskovitz, net worth: $18.3 billion | age: 39 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, dustin moskovitz helped launch facebook in 2004 with then-roommate mark zuckerberg from their harvard dorm., 104. donald bren, net worth: $18 billion | age: 91 | country/territory: united states | industry: real estate, donald bren is america's wealthiest real estate baron., 104. renata kellnerova & family, net worth: $18 billion | age: 56 | country/territory: czech republic | industry: finance & investments, renata kellnerova is the widow of petr kellner, the former richest person in the czech republic, who died in march 2021 at age 56., 104. michael platt, net worth: $18 billion | age: 56 | country/territory: united kingdom | industry: finance & investments, michael platt is the cofounder and ceo of bluecrest capital management, which he started in late 2000 after nearly a decade at jp morgan., 107. radhakishan damani, net worth: $17.6 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: india | industry: fashion & retail, veteran mumbai investor radhakishan damani became india's retail king after the march 2017 ipo of his supermarket chain avenue supermarts., 108. john fredriksen, net worth: $16.9 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: cyprus | industry: logistics, john fredriksen's empire includes oil tankers, dry bulkers, lng carriers and deepwater drilling rigs., 109. eric li, net worth: $16.8 billion | age: 60 | country/territory: china | industry: automotive, eric li, also known as li shufu, is chairman of geely automobile holdings, one of china's largest automakers and one of the few not controlled by the state., 110. stefan persson, net worth: $16.6 billion | age: 76 | country/territory: sweden | industry: fashion & retail, stefan persson is sweden's richest person by way of global cheap chic fashion retailer h&m, of which he owns 36%., 111. james ratcliffe, net worth: $16.5 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: united kingdom | industry: manufacturing, former chemical engineer james ratcliffe is the founder, chairman and majority owner of $68 billion (2022 revenue) chemical powerhouse ineos group., 111. harry triguboff, net worth: $16.5 billion | age: 91 | country/territory: australia | industry: real estate, harry triguboff is one of australia's richest people. born in dalian, china to russian parents, he came to australia as a teenager., 113. jorge paulo lemann & family, net worth: $16.4 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: brazil | industry: food & beverage, jorge paulo lemann started in investment banking and later became a controlling shareholder of anheuser-busch inbev, the world's largest brewer., 113. lakshmi mittal, net worth: $16.4 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: india | industry: metals & mining, lakshmi mittal serves as chairman of $68 billion (revenue) arcelormittal, the world's largest steel and mining company by output., 115. ravi jaipuria, net worth: $16.2 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: india | industry: food & beverage, india's cola king, ravi jaipuria, presides over rj corp. which is into everything from beverages and fast food to healthcare and education., 115. stanley kroenke, net worth: $16.2 billion | age: 76 | country/territory: united states | industry: sports, stan kroenke is a real estate and sports mogul with an international portfolio., 117. jan koum, net worth: $16.1 billion | age: 48 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, jan koum cofounded whatsapp, now the world's biggest mobile messaging service, in 2009., 118. karl albrecht jr. & family, net worth: $15.9 billion | age: 76 | country/territory: germany | industry: fashion & retail, heir to the aldi retail fortune, karl albrecht jr. is the son of karl albrecht sr., who died in 2014 at age 94. his sister, beate heister, is also a billionaire., 118. beate heister, net worth: $15.9 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: germany | industry: fashion & retail, heir to the aldi retail fortune, beate heister, is the daughter of karl albrecht sr., who died in 2014 at age 94. her brother, karl albrecht jr., is also a billionaire., 120. idan ofer, net worth: $15.8 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: israel | industry: diversified, idan ofer is one of two sons of shipping magnate sammy ofer, who died in 2011 and was once israel's richest man., 121. nicolas puech, net worth: $15.6 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: france | industry: fashion & retail, nicolas puech is a fifth-generation descendant of thierry hermes, who founded one of paris's most famous luxury fashion brands., 122. pavel durov, net worth: $15.5 billion | age: 39 | country/territory: united arab emirates | industry: technology, pavel durov is the founder and owner of messaging app telegram, which has more than 700 million monthly active users worldwide., 122. qin yinglin, net worth: $15.5 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: china | industry: food & beverage, qin yinglin is the chairman and ceo of muyuan foods, one of china's largest pig breeder and pork producers., 124. ray dalio, net worth: $15.4 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, ray dalio is the founder of the world's biggest hedge fund firm, bridgewater associates, which manages $124 billion., 125. philip anschutz, net worth: $15.3 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, over five decades, philip anschutz has built fortunes in oil, railroads, telecom, real estate and entertainment., 126. leonard lauder, net worth: $15.1 billion | age: 91 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, leonard lauder spent three decades running his family's publicly traded cosmetics giant, estée lauder., 126. li xiting, net worth: $15.1 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: singapore | industry: healthcare, li is cofounder and chairman of shenzhen mindray bio-medical electronics, a supplier of medical devices., 126. peter woo, net worth: $15.1 billion | age: 77 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: real estate, peter woo was chairman of property developer wheelock & co. and its main subsidiary, wharf holdings, before stepping down in 2015., 129. andreas von bechtolsheim & family, net worth: $14.8 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: germany | industry: technology, andreas "andy" von bechtolsheim is cofounder, chairman and chief development officer of network switching company arista networks., 130. george kaiser, net worth: $14.6 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: united states | industry: energy, george kaiser took over his family's kaiser-francis oil company in the 1960s., 131. wang chuanfu, net worth: $14.2 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: china | industry: automotive, wang chuanfu has led byd to become the world's largest ev company by sales, overtaking tesla in 2022 and accounting for 21% of the global market today., 132. charlene de carvalho-heineken & family, net worth: $14.1 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: netherlands | industry: food & beverage, charlene de carvalho-heineken is one of the richest women in the world, thanks to her nearly 24% stake in beer giant heineken., 132. david duffield, net worth: $14.1 billion | age: 83 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, david duffield cofounded not just one, but two successful enterprise software companies after age 40: peoplesoft and workday., 132. henry samueli, net worth: $14.1 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, henry samueli is cofounder and chairman of chipmaker broadcom., 135. theo albrecht jr & family, net worth: $14 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: germany | industry: fashion & retail, theo albrecht jr. and the heirs of his brother, berthold, inherited one of the world's great retail fortunes., 135. leon black, net worth: $14 billion | age: 72 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, leon black is the cofounder of private equity behemoth apollo global management, which manages $600 billion in assets., 137. jerry jones, net worth: $13.8 billion | age: 81 | country/territory: united states | industry: sports, jerry jones, co-captain of the university of arkansas 1964 national championship team, has long had football in his blood., 137. wang wei, net worth: $13.8 billion | age: 53 | country/territory: china | industry: service, wang wei chairs s.f. holding, the package delivery giant known for its sf express brand., 139. david green & family, net worth: $13.7 billion | age: 82 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, a preacher's son from a poor background, hobby lobby founder david green opened his first crafts shop in 1970 with a $600 loan., 140. james dyson, net worth: $13.6 billion | age: 76 | country/territory: united kingdom | industry: manufacturing, frustrated with his family's vacuum, dyson set out to invent a better version in 1978 using a cyclone to lift dirt., 140. david sun, net worth: $13.6 billion | age: 72 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, david sun cofounded and helps run kingston technology, which makes storage and memory products, as coo from a cubicle on the sales floor., 140. john tu, net worth: $13.6 billion | age: 82 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, kingston technology ceo john tu runs the firm, which makes storage and memory products, from a cubicle on sales floor., 140. christy walton, net worth: $13.6 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, christy walton married into what is now the richest family in the world: walmart's walton clan., 144. dang yanbao, net worth: $13.4 billion | age: 51 | country/territory: china | industry: metals & mining, dang yanbao chairs ningxia baofeng energy group, a supplier of coal chemical products., 144. aliko dangote, net worth: $13.4 billion | age: 66 | country/territory: nigeria | industry: manufacturing, aliko dangote, africa's richest person, founded and chairs dangote cement, the continent's largest cement producer., 144. ricardo salinas pliego & family, net worth: $13.4 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: mexico | industry: fashion & retail, ricardo salinas pliego runs the number two mexican tv broadcaster, tv azteca, and retailer grupo elektra., 144. alisher usmanov, net worth: $13.4 billion | age: 70 | country/territory: russia | industry: metals & mining, an early facebook investor and metals magnate, alisher usmanov was hit with u.s., u.k. and eu sanctions in the wake of russia's invasion of ukraine., 148. mike cannon-brookes, net worth: $13.3 billion | age: 44 | country/territory: australia | industry: technology, mike cannon-brookes is cofounder and co-ceo of collaboration software firm atlassian, based in sydney., 148. uday kotak, net worth: $13.3 billion | age: 65 | country/territory: india | industry: finance & investments, spurning his family's trading business, uday kotak started a finance firm in 1985 then went on to convert it into a bank in 2003., 150. mikhail fridman, net worth: $13.1 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: russia | industry: energy, mikhail fridman, cofounder of alfa bank, russia's largest non-state bank, was hit with sanctions after russia invaded ukraine., 150. joseph lau, net worth: $13.1 billion | age: 72 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: real estate, joseph lau is the former chairman of property developer chinese estates, most of which he acquired in 1986., 152. scott farquhar, net worth: $13 billion | age: 44 | country/territory: australia | industry: technology, scott farquhar is cofounder and co-ceo of collaboration software company atlassian, based in sydney, australia., 153. laurene powell jobs & family, net worth: $12.8 billion | age: 60 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, laurene powell jobs inherited her fortune—mostly through shares of walt disney and apple—from her late husband, apple cofounder steve jobs, who died in 2011., 154. goh cheng liang, net worth: $12.7 billion | age: 96 | country/territory: singapore | industry: manufacturing, goh cheng liang gets the bulk of his wealth from a majority stake in japan's nippon paint holdings, the world's fourth-largest paint manufacturer by revenue., 154. george roberts, net worth: $12.7 billion | age: 80 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, george roberts cofounded private equity giant kkr with henry kravis; in october 2021 the two men gave up their co-ceo titles; both serve as executive co-chairs of the firm., 156. david cheriton, net worth: $12.6 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: canada | industry: technology, "professor billionaire" david cheriton, who is professor emeritus at stanford university, made his fortune thanks to an early investment in google., 156. jeffery hildebrand, net worth: $12.6 billion | age: 65 | country/territory: united states | industry: energy, jeffrey hildebrand cofounded hilcorp in 1990; he later bought out his partner for $500 million., 156. georg stumpf, net worth: $12.6 billion | age: 51 | country/territory: austria | industry: diversified, austrian builder and investor georg stumpf started the stumpf group in 1994 with a $35,000 loan from his father., 159. dhanin chearavanont, net worth: $12.5 billion | age: 84 | country/territory: thailand | industry: diversified, dhanin chearavanont is senior chairman of charoen pokphand group, one of the world's largest producers of animal feed and livestock., 159. anders holch povlsen, net worth: $12.5 billion | age: 51 | country/territory: denmark | industry: fashion & retail, fashion maven anders holch povlsen's fortune stems primarily from his nearly $4 billion (sales) retailer bestseller., 161. israel englander, net worth: $12.4 billion | age: 75 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, israel englander founded millennium management in 1989 with $35 million. now, the hedge fund firm manages $58 billion., 162. shahid khan, net worth: $12.2 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: united states | industry: automotive, shahid khan is the owner of auto parts supplier flex-n-gate and the nfl's jacksonville jaguars., 162. johann rupert & family, net worth: $12.2 billion | age: 73 | country/territory: south africa | industry: fashion & retail, johann rupert is chairman of swiss luxury goods firm compagnie financiere richemont., 164. hasso plattner & family, net worth: $12.1 billion | age: 80 | country/territory: germany | industry: technology, hasso plattner and four colleagues left ibm in 1972 to launch german enterprise software company sap, which went public in 1988., 165. kwong siu-hing, net worth: $12 billion | age: 94 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: real estate, kwong siu-hing is the widow of sun hung kai properties cofounder kwok tak-seng, who died in 1990., 165. azim premji, net worth: $12 billion | age: 78 | country/territory: india | industry: technology, indian tech magnate azim premji's $11.3 billion (revenue) wipro is among india's largest software services providers., 167. henry nicholas iii, net worth: $11.9 billion | age: 64 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, henry nicholas iii and business partner henry samueli cofounded fabless semiconductor firm broadcom in 1991 in a redondo beach, calif. condominium., 168. edward johnson iv, net worth: $11.8 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, edward johnson iv is the grandson of edward johnson ii, who founded fidelity investments in 1946., 169. john doerr, net worth: $11.7 billion | age: 72 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, investor john doerr is chairman of venture capital firm kleiner perkins., 169. henry kravis, net worth: $11.7 billion | age: 80 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, henry kravis and george roberts, cofounders of private equity firm kkr, gave up their co-ceo titles in october 2021; both serve as executive co-chairs., 169. eric smidt, net worth: $11.7 billion | age: 64 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, eric smidt is ceo of $6.5 billion (sales) harbor freight tools, a home improvement retailer that has over 1,300 stores., 172. lu xiangyang, net worth: $11.6 billion | age: 61 | country/territory: china | industry: automotive, lu xiangyang was working at a local branch of the people's bank of china in 1995 when he teamed up with his cousin wang chuanfu to start byd, then a battery maker., 173. andrew beal, net worth: $11.5 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, andrew beal is the founder and owner of beal financial corporation, which owns beal bank and has assets of more than $40 billion., 173. jay y. lee, net worth: $11.5 billion | age: 55 | country/territory: south korea | industry: technology, jay y. lee is the executive chairman of samsung electronics and leader of the country's biggest conglomerate. he was appointed to the role in october 2022, which had been left vacant since the death of his father in 2020., 173. michael rubin, net worth: $11.5 billion | age: 51 | country/territory: united states | industry: fashion & retail, michael rubin is the founder and ceo of online sports merchandising retailer fanatics., 176. robert kuok, net worth: $11.4 billion | age: 100 | country/territory: malaysia | industry: diversified, robert kuok is the richest man in malaysia. he owns kuok group, which has interests in hotels, real estate and commodities., 177. giorgio armani, net worth: $11.3 billion | age: 89 | country/territory: italy | industry: fashion & retail, a living legend in the fashion world, giorgio armani brought softened, minimalist style to high-end menswear., 177. jay chaudhry, net worth: $11.3 billion | age: 64 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, jay chaudhry is ceo of zscaler, a cybersecurity firm he founded in 2008. it went public in march 2018., 177. charoen sirivadhanabhakdi, net worth: $11.3 billion | age: 79 | country/territory: thailand | industry: food & beverage, son of a bangkok street vendor, charoen sirivadhanabhakdi controls thai beverage, thailand's largest brewer, known for its chang beer., 180. brian armstrong, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 41 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, brian armstrong is the chief executive of coinbase, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the united states., 180. ernesto bertarelli, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: switzerland | industry: healthcare, ernesto bertarelli inherited biotech giant serono, maker of the multiple sclerosis drug rebif, following his father's death in 1998., 180. bubba cathy, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 69 | country/territory: united states | industry: food & beverage, bubba cathy and his brother, dan, run fast-food juggernaut chick-fil-a, the fried chicken chain founded by their father, truett (d. 2014), in 1967., 180. dan cathy, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 71 | country/territory: united states | industry: food & beverage, fried chicken billionaire dan cathy is chairman of chick-fil-a, the fast-food juggernaut his father, truett cathy (d. 2014), founded in 1967., 180. trudy cathy white, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 68 | country/territory: united states | industry: food & beverage, trudy cathy white is the only daughter of truett cathy (d. 2014), the founder of chick-fil-a., 180. lui che woo, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 95 | country/territory: hong kong | industry: gambling & casinos, lui che woo chairs macau casino operator galaxy entertainment group and property developer k. wah international holdings, both listed in hong kong., 180. wei jianjun & family, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 60 | country/territory: china | industry: automotive, wei jianjun leads china's largest suv manufacturer, great wall motor., 180. sky xu, net worth: $11.2 billion | age: 40 | country/territory: china | industry: fashion & retail, sky xu founded shein in 2012 and has turned it into a fast-fashion phenomenon with gen z, selling trendy clothes in more than 150 countries., 188. melinda french gates, net worth: $11.1 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, melinda french gates is one of the most powerful women in philanthropy, as co-chair of the bill and melinda gates foundation., 188. robert kraft, net worth: $11.1 billion | age: 82 | country/territory: united states | industry: sports, robert kraft bought the new england patriots for $172 million in 1994; the team is now worth about $6 billion and has won six super bowl rings., 190. brian chesky, net worth: $11 billion | age: 42 | country/territory: united states | industry: technology, brian chesky cofounded peer-to-peer room and home rental company airbnb with nathan blecharczyk and joe gebbia in 2008; chesky is ceo., 190. barry lam, net worth: $11 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: taiwan | industry: technology, barry lam is the founder and chairman of quanta computer, one of the world's largest manufacturers of notebook computers and other electronics., 190. donald newhouse, net worth: $11 billion | age: 94 | country/territory: united states | industry: media & entertainment, donald newhouse and his late brother, samuel "si" inherited the publishing and broadcasting empire advance publications decades ago., 190. mikhail prokhorov, net worth: $11 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: russia | industry: finance & investments, mikhail prokhorov sold a 49% stake in the brooklyn nets to alibaba executive joseph tsai in a $2.3 billion deal in 2018., 190. manuel villar, net worth: $11 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: philippines | industry: real estate, manuel villar chairs property developer vista land & lifescapes run by his son manuel paolo. the company listed vistareit, a real estate investment trust, in june 2022 with an initial portfolio of 10 shopping malls and two office towers.1, 195. jiang rensheng & family, net worth: $10.9 billion | age: 70 | country/territory: china | industry: healthcare, jiang rensheng chairs shenzhen-listed vaccine firm chongqing zhifei biological products., 195. lei jun, net worth: $10.9 billion | age: 54 | country/territory: china | industry: technology, lei jun is the cofounder and chairman of hong kong-listed xiaomi, one of the world's most popular smartphone brands., 195. georg schaeffler, net worth: $10.9 billion | age: 59 | country/territory: germany | industry: automotive, georg schaeffler and his mother, maria-elisabeth, own schaeffler group, one of the world's largest producers of ball bearings and machine components., 195. marcel herrmann telles & family, net worth: $10.9 billion | age: 74 | country/territory: brazil | industry: food & beverage, marcel herrmann telles is a cofounder of private equity firm 3g capital, best known for its investments in anheuser-busch inbev and restaurant brands international, parent of burger king and canadian coffee chain tim hortons., 199. david velez & family, net worth: $10.8 billion | age: 42 | country/territory: colombia | industry: finance & investments, vélez is cofounder and ceo of nubank, a sao-paulo based digital bank that offers credit cards, checking accounts and life insurance., 200. suleiman kerimov & family, net worth: $10.7 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: russia | industry: finance & investments, a native of dagestan, kerimov has represented the republic in russia's federation council since 2008. he was sanctioned by the u.s. in 2018. the eu and uk sanctioned him in march 2022., 200. sarath ratanavadi, net worth: $10.7 billion | age: 58 | country/territory: thailand | industry: energy, sarath ratanavadi is the ceo of gulf energy development, one of thailand's largest power producers., 200. patrick ryan, net worth: $10.7 billion | age: 86 | country/territory: united states | industry: finance & investments, patrick ryan is ceo and founder of chicago based ryan specialty group, a wholesale brokerage and specialty insurance firm., more from forbes.

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Forbes has released its list of the world's billionaires. There are more than ever before — and they're wealthier.

By Caitlin O'Kane

Edited By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

April 2, 2024 / 10:24 AM EDT / CBS News

Forbes has released its annual list of the world's billionaires and in 2024, there are more people on the list than ever — and they're richer than ever.

There are 141 more billionaires in the world than last year, with 2,781 in total. Their combined worth equals $14.2 trillion — up by $2 trillion in 2023.

The 2024 list also broke records set in 2021, with 26 more billionaires on the list and their combined net worth up by $1.1 trillion. 

Billionaires themselves are also wealthier, with two-thirds adding to their worth. The top 20 on the list gained the most, adding $700 billion to their combined worth since 2023. And the U.S. has a record 813 billionaires — the most of any country.

China has 473 billionaires and India has 200, which set a record for that country.

To tally their wealth, Forbes used stock prices and exchange rates from March 8, 2024.

Bernard Arnault and his family are at number one, with a net worth of $233 billion. Arnault is head of LVMH, a luxury fashion and cosmetics conglomerate in France. The family is usually in the top three of Forbes' wealthiest people in the world lists.

Elon Musk, once the richest person in the world, is No. 2 on the list, with a net worth of $195 billion. Musk, the founder of Tesla and SpaceX, also bought Twitter for $44 million in 2022, renaming it X. 

Musk owns an estimated 74% of the social media company, which is now worth nearly 70% less than he paid, Forbes estimates. This and other factors like low Tesla earnings have lead to his net worth dipping below $200 billion several times over the last two years.

Coming in at No. 3 is Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who has a net worth of $195 billion. Then comes Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, who is worth $177 billion.

Other famous names on the list include: 

• 100. Fox News founder Rupert Murdoch and his family, worth $19.5 billion
• 137. Dallas Cowboys General Manager and President Jerry Jones, worth $13.9 billion
• 1,330. Jay-Z, worth $2.5 billion 
• 1,851. Kim Kardashian, worth $1.7 billion 
• 2,545. Taylor Swift, worth $1.1 billion

The wealthiest woman on the billionaires list comes in at No. 15: Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, the granddaughter of the founder of L'Oreal. As the richest woman in the world, she is worth $99.5 billion.

The top four wealthiest women after Bettencourt: 

• 21. Alice Walton, Walmart founder Sam Walton's daughter, who is worth $72.3 billion
• 23. Julia Koch and her three children, who inherited a stake in Koch Industries from her husband when he died and is worth $64.3 billion
• 35. Jacqueline Mars, who owns one-third of candy and food company Mars, who is worth $38.5 billion
• 43. MacKenzie Scott , the ex-wife of Jeff Bezos, who is worth $35.6 billion 
• Billionaire
• Jerry Jones
• Mark Zuckerberg
• Rupert Murdoch
• Bernard Arnault

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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These are the 10 hottest destinations billionaires are traveling to in 2020

• Billionaires can afford vacations many will never experience.
• Business Insider teamed up with  luxury travel  agency  Original Travel  to find the hottest spots  billionaires are heading to in 2020.
• Billionaires are seeking less-traveled destinations and places that offer intimate luxury cruise experiences, but they're also interested in a few more popular countries.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Billionaires are always on-the-go, even when they're vacationing.

Business Insider teamed up with boutique  luxury  travel agency  Original Travel , which plans trips for high-net-worth individuals, to find out the hottest spots the elite are spending their money on in 2020. They based this ranking on the number of bookings and performance; the latter was assessed by feedback, their expertise, and client inquiries.

Overall, billionaires are seeking out the unknown and the exclusive, from off-the-beaten path Kyrgyzstan to Nicaragua, newly removed from the FCO travel warning list. They're also looking to set sail, opting for intimate luxury cruises in far-flung destinations like the Maldives and Antarctica.

While they seem to have a taste for the exotic, they're also headed to the Middle East and Europe to visit a few more well-traveled countries.

Here are the destinations the ultra-wealthy will be checking off their bucket lists in the new decade.

10. Nicaragua

With Nicaragua removed from the FCO travel warning list in 2019 , it's set to welcome international visitors once again, Tom Barber, cofounder of Original Travel, told Business Insider. "Nicaragua has everything that we love so much about Costa Rica, but with fewer tourists and — as it's the largest country in Central America — more space to get off the beaten track," he said.

Its city of Granada has an edge over cities in neighboring countries, he added, for its colonial appeal, pastel-colored baroque buildings, and rich Spanish architecture.

9. Kyrgyzstan

Barber foresees an increase in tourism in Uzbekistan next year since it ditched its visa requirements for travelers from 45 countries including the UK. As such, he expects more intrepid travelers looking for somewhere untouched will head to neighboring Kyrgyzstan. 

The country is home to mountains, Silk Road sites, and a nomadic culture. "We're seeing a rise in people wanting to go off-grid, digitally detox, and taste the kind of wilderness that is as yet still untouched, untamed, and untainted by tourism," Amelia Stewart, brand ambassador for Original Travel, told Business Insider. "Kyrgyzstan ticks those boxes, and also makes a fantastic combination tour with neighbouring Uzbekistan. It's a country on the cusp of discovery but not for much longer."

8. Maldives

Original Travel has seen a 396% increase in bookings in the Maldives for 2020, Barber said. It's largely because of the luxurious Four Seasons Explorer, a floating resort that only hosts a maximum of 22 guests. 

Original Travel and Four Seasons teamed up to send the luxury catamaran to the remote southern atolls for the first time, hopping across the Maldives' most secluded islands and exploring some of the least visited dive sites, Barber said. 

The Maldives is also home to plenty of luxury resorts. Baros Maldives, which includes 77 ultra-luxurious villas, has been dubbed the "World's Most Romantic Resort" by  World Travel Awards for four years in a row, and six times total, reported Business Insider's Katie Warren . And the adults-only Kudaadoo Maldives Private Island was named the best new luxury hotel of 2019 .

February is going to be prime-time for travel to Jamaica, thanks to "reliably good weather" and the 75th birthday anniversary of Jamaican native Bob Marley, according to Barber.

It's also home to plenty of luxury hotels, he said, such as the five-star Goldeneye, once home to James Bond creator Ian Fleming; cliffside resort Strawberry Hill; and Geeham, which has its own recording studio — Gwen Stefani, Drake, and Alicia Keys have stayed there, according to Oyster .

6. Antarctica

"2020 marks 200 years since Nathaniel Palmer laid claim to the discovery of the Antarctic mainland, making it an iconic year for all Antarctic travel," Barber said. Travelers are interested in the exclusive experience of  the Magellan Explorer , an expedition vessel built for the Antarctic and the first small passenger ship to offer single cabins that launched in 2019.

More than 55,000 tourists visited Antarctica  in the 2018-2019 season — an 18%-plus increase from a decade prior, according to data from the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Most visitors come from the US, China, Australia, and the UK, many of them  on luxury cruises ,  reported Warren .

Israel has seen several new transportation and hospitality openings set to make it a hot destination next year, according to Barber: Ramon airport, which opened in January 2019, "created an international gateway" to the Red Sea and Eilat; Virgin Atlantic launched a new daily service from Heathrow to Tel Aviv in September 2019; and Six Senses, a five-star luxury resort chain, is set to open in the Negev Desert in February 2020.

"Tel Aviv has seen a recent influx in tourism and from that, an increased demand in luxury hotels," Galit Heller, director of sales and marketing at  The Jaffa , a five-star hotel in Tel Aviv, previously told Business Insider . "With an increased popularity, and a previous lack in the luxury hospitality scene, we see many luxury hotels popping up across Tel Aviv."

Barber has seen a 150% increase in 2020 bookings for Chile. He thinks it's partly because a solar eclipse is set to happen in the country on December 14, 2020, passing through the Chilean Lake District. The area offers a lot of opportunity for adventure, including hiking, horseriding, kayaking, and fishing, he said.

It's also a perfect spot for luxury seekers:  Business Insider's David Slotnick  stayed at Easter Island's primary all-inclusive luxury hotel, Explora Rapa Nui, and found his stay to be "phenomenal."

"Less traditional luxury — no white tablecloth breakfasts served on your private balcony overlooking the ocean — Explora offers the luxury of being able to let go of planning and logistics without sacrificing choice or personalization," Slotnick wrote.

Egypt was the top destination for billionaires in 2019 and remains a top spot in the new decade. That's all thanks to the long-awaited re-opening of The Grand Egyptian Museum and Steam Ship Sudan, a cruise that glides down the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. Original Travel exclusively chartered the steamer for ten days during October 2020 to celebrate the film adaptation of Agatha's Christie's "Death on the Nile."

Egypt is steeped in history, with plenty of archaeological sites, temples, and tombs, and has numerous luxury offerings, from dining restaurants in Cairo to beach resorts along the coast of the Red Sea.

2. Portugal

"Just as 2019 seemed to be all about discovering hidden Greece, in 2020, eyes will turn to lesser-known Portugal," Barber said. "Currently famous for the Algarve and golf, travelers are starting to wake up to how much more the country has to offer."

Millennials favored the country in 2019 for its charming neighborhoods and buzzing nightlife, and now it seems that the wealthy are picking up on the hot spot as well.

The capital of Lisbon is home to the Bairro Alto neighborhood, where the eponymous luxury hotel recently reopened, and a "food scene that befits the hometown of star chef, Nuno Mendes," Barber added. Just south of Lisbon is Comporta, which has a "boho surfing vibe," and to the west are Portugal's Azore Islands, which have been compared to "a warm Iceland" for their dramatic volcanic landscape, Barber said.

September 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower Voyage and founding of Plymouth Colony. As such, the UK will be hosting cultural and artistic events throughout the whole year to celebrate, and Barber expects it to attract wealthy travelers.

Original Travel has been working on developing a tailor-made itinerary for history buffs to tour all the artistic gems and properties that played a role in leading up to the Mayflower sailing.

London, the country's capital city, is home to a number of luxury hotels including Claridge's, The Connaught, and The Dorchester.

• Main content

'Enthusiastic' British billionaire saw doomed Titan sub as 'only option' to visit Titanic

An "enthusiastic" British billionaire who was among five people killed on a trip to visit the Titanic wreck saw the doomed Titan submersible as his "only option" to visit the iconic site , it has been revealed.

Hamish Harding , an adventurer who holds three Guinness World Records including the longest duration at full ocean depth by a crewed vessel, died on June 18, 2023. He had been one of four passengers on the OceanGate Titan submersible, along with OceanGate boss Stockton Rush , when the sub imploded in the depths of the Atlantic.

The 58-year-old businessman and adventurer was convinced to pay £195,000 by OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush to visit the wreckage of the Titanic along with Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood and Titanic expert Paul-Henri Nargeolet. The Titan had been chronicling the Titanic’s decay and the underwater ecosystem around the sunken ocean liner in yearly voyages since 2021.

READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Titanic submersible victim's friend warned doomed craft 'getting weaker each time'

READ MORE: Billionaire is taking new submarine to Titanic wreck to prove it's safe after OceanGate implosion

However, experts had cautioned that under intense pressure at extreme depths, the Titan’s hull could implode, which would result in instant death for anyone aboard. Mr Harding was advised against going on the Titan by Rob McCallum, a deep-sea expedition leader and consultant who had previously warned of the safety issues with the vessel.

He had urged Stockton Rush to stop using the Titan submarine until it had been certified safe by an independent agency. But despite multiple email exchanges, OceanGate threatened legal action against the claims, prompting Mr McCallum to cut ties with the company.

Rob McCallum exclusively told The Mirror he warned Mr Harding not to get on the Titan as there were "many red flags" with the safety of the vessel. He said: "There were many red flags; primarily the firing of the Chief Pilot for raising safety concerns. When an organization fires a whistleblower rather than fix the issue/s they are raising……well, that is illustrative of a very broken organization.

"This whole tragedy could have been avoided if the whistleblower's report had become public. Yet Oceangates lawyer, Thomas Gilman, management and board read the report and then sued the whistleblower to ensure his silence. With hindsight comes clarity; and it is not pretty."

The 22-foot long, 23,000-pound Titan’s larger internal volume — while still cramped with a maximum of five seated people — meant it was subjected to more external pressure. While OceanGate Expeditions, which owned and operated the craft, touted the Titan’s roomier cylinder-shaped cabin made of carbon fiber, industry experts say it was a departure from the sphere-shaped cabins — considered ideal because water pressure is exerted equally on all areas — made of titanium used by most submersibles.

Mr McCallum, who paid tribute to his "great shipmate" believes the Titanic was "high on his agenda" and probably found the OceanGate marketing "quite alluring" He added: "The Titanic was high on his agenda and Titan was the only option.

"I suspect the Oceangate marketing was quite alluring. Hamish was a pilot, not an engineer. He may not have appreciated the actual level of risk inherent in the hull of the vehicle. (Hamish was) a great shipmate; a genuine pleasure to be with; always infectiously enthusiastic to explore the next horizon. He lived life to the fullest."

Supreme Court blocks Purdue Pharma opioid settlement, threatening billions of dollars for victims

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Thursday blew up the massive bankruptcy reorganization of opioid maker Purdue Pharma, finding that the settlement inappropriately included legal protections for the Sackler family, meaning that billions of dollars secured for victims is now threatened.

The court on a 5-4 vote on nonideological lines ruled that the bankruptcy court did not have the authority to release the Sackler family members from legal claims made by opioid victims.

In aftermath of the decision, the Sackler family, Purdue Pharma and lawyers for the plaintiffs expressed hope that a new deal could quickly be reached.

As part of the original settlement, the family, which controlled the company, had agreed to pay $6 billion that could be used to settle opioid-related claims, but only in return for a complete release from any liability in future cases.

Conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the majority, said the Sacklers could have declared bankruptcy but instead sought to piggyback on the company's own bankruptcy proceedings in an effort to resolve pending legal claims.

"They obtained all this without securing the consent of those affected or placing anything approaching their total assets on the table for their creditors," Gorsuch wrote.

"Nothing in present law authorizes the Sackler discharge," he added.

Gorsuch was joined in the majority by three of his conservative colleagues and one liberal, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh dissented, citing the impact of the decision on those who would benefit from the settlement.

"Today's decision is wrong on the law and devastating to the more than 100,000 opioid victims and their families," he wrote.

As a result of the ruling, "opioid victims are now deprived of the substantial monetary recovery that they long fought for and finally secured after years of litigation," he added.

Fellow conservative Chief Justice John Roberts joined Kavanaugh's dissent, as did liberal justices Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.

The ruling means settlement talks with the Sacklers would have to begin again, while the separate Purdue Pharma bankruptcy proceedings continue.

Purdue Pharma described the ruling as "heart-crushing" because of the impact on victims, but pledged to move forward with efforts to negotiate a new settlement.

"The decision does nothing to deter us from the twin goals of using settlement dollars for opioid abatement and turning the company into an engine for good," the statement said.

A statement issued by members of the Sackler family said they "remain hopeful about reaching a resolution that provides substantial resources to help combat a complex public health crisis."

"While we are confident that we would prevail in any future litigation given the profound misrepresentations about our families and the opioid crisis, we continue to believe that a swift negotiated agreement to provide billions of dollars for people and communities in need is the best way forward," they added.

Jayne Conroy, a lawyer representing some of the plaintiffs, said that various lawsuits against the Sacklers that were put on hold as a result of the settlement would resume if no new deal is reached.

The Sacklers will be under "a lot of pressure" to reach a quick settlement or face "a massive onslaught to secure assets that may be hidden around the world," she added.

The case drew further attention to the lingering effects of the opioid crisis and the role that Sackler-owned Purdue played in creating it.

As part of the proposed deal, which the Supreme Court put on hold last year when it took up the case, the Sackler family had agreed to pay around $6 billion that could be used to settle opioid-related claims, but only in return for a complete release from any liability in future cases.

The settlement, including assets held by Purdue, would be worth significantly more, with the reorganized company set to dedicate itself to tackling the impact of opioid abuse.

No Sacklers have had any involvement in the company since 2019.

Purdue made billions from OxyContin, a widely available painkiller that fueled the opioid epidemic. The company’s tactics in aggressively marketing the drug came under increasing scrutiny as thousands of people died from opioid overdoses.

As the company’s fortunes nosedived, it sought bankruptcy protection, but the Sackler family members did not. Instead, they negotiated a separate deal with Purdue and plaintiffs in pending lawsuits that would allow the company to reinvent itself to address the opioid crisis.

The New York-based 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals last year approved the plan over the objection of William Harrington, the U.S. government trustee monitoring the bankruptcy. The Justice Department’s trustee program is aimed at ensuring that the bankruptcy system operates as required under law.

Harrington objected to the release of additional claims against the Sacklers, saying it would be unfair to potential future plaintiffs.

Purdue criticized Harrington’s role, saying that groups representing thousands of plaintiffs have signed on to the settlement, which could not have happened without the Sackler family contribution.

At the Supreme Court, various groups representing plaintiffs backed Purdue, including one that includes 1,300 cities, counties and other municipalities and another representing 60,000 people affected by the opioid epidemic.

Canadian municipalities and Indigenous First Nations were among those objecting to the settlement.

Purdue flourished under brothers Mortimer and Raymond Sackler, who died in 2010 and 2017, respectively. The family reaped billions and spent lavishly, including on splashy charitable projects .

The family told the Supreme Court that it continues to back the settlement.

In a brief filed on behalf of the relatives of Mortimer Sackler, most of whom are based overseas, lawyers warned of “significant litigation costs and risks” in seeking to enforce any foreign court judgments against the family if the settlement were thrown out.

Lawrence Hurley covers the Supreme Court for NBC News.