The highest royalty in the world, when measured by estimated net worth, is Maha Vajiralongkorn, the current King of Thailand.
King Vajiralongkorn is widely regarded as the wealthiest monarch globally, with an estimated net worth ranging from $30 billion to $43 billion. This substantial fortune is primarily managed by the Crown Property Bureau of Thailand, an institution unique in its direct links to the monarch. His wealth includes vast landholdings, investments in major companies, and ownership of valuable assets such as the Golden Jubilee Diamond, the world's largest faceted diamond.
Understanding Royal Wealth
The concept of "highest royalty" can be interpreted in various ways, such as longest-reigning, most influential, or head of the largest kingdom. However, when considering financial standing, net worth becomes the primary metric. The wealth of monarchs often differs significantly from that of private billionaires, as much of their fortune is tied to national assets, state enterprises, or historical endowments managed by royal institutions. These assets are frequently separate from the national budget but directly controlled by or linked to the monarch.
The sources of royal wealth can be diverse, including:
- Land and Real Estate: Extensive landholdings, often passed down through generations.
- Investments: Shares in national and international companies, managed by royal portfolios.
- State-Owned Enterprises: Direct or indirect ownership in businesses that contribute to the national economy.
- Precious Assets: Collections of jewelry, art, and other valuable items.
Top Wealthiest Monarchs
While King Vajiralongkorn leads in personal net worth, several other monarchs also possess significant fortunes. Here’s a look at some of the wealthiest royals, based on estimated net worth:
| Rank | Name | Title | Estimated Net Worth | Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maha Vajiralongkorn | King of Thailand | $30 billion – $43 billion | Thailand |
| 2 | Hassanal Bolkiah | Sultan of Brunei | $20 billion – $28 billion | Brunei |
| 3 | Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud | King of Saudi Arabia | $18 billion | Saudi Arabia |
| 4 | Mohammed VI | King of Morocco | $2.1 billion – $8.2 billion | Morocco |
Note: These figures are estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions and assessment methodologies.
The Crown Property Bureau of Thailand
A significant portion of King Vajiralongkorn's wealth is managed by the Crown Property Bureau (CPB), which holds substantial assets on behalf of the monarch. For decades, the CPB operated under specific laws that designated its assets as belonging to the monarchy rather than directly to the state or the monarch as a private individual. In 2018, King Vajiralongkorn consolidated direct control over the CPB, transferring its assets to his personal name, a move that significantly increased his declared personal wealth and direct financial authority. This consolidation further underscores his position as the world's richest monarch.
