The richest woman in the world is Françoise Bettencourt Meyers.
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, a French heiress and businesswoman, has held the title of the world's wealthiest woman since 2021, a position she has consistently maintained due to her significant inheritance and ongoing stake in the L'Oréal cosmetics empire.
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers: A Profile in Wealth
Françoise Bettencourt Meyers' immense fortune stems primarily from her family's vast stake in L'Oréal, the world's largest cosmetics and beauty company. She serves as the vice-chairwoman of the board of directors of L'Oréal, a role she assumed following the passing of her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, in 2017.
- Source of Wealth: Her wealth is predominantly derived from the Bettencourt family's approximately 33% stake in L'Oréal.
- Net Worth: Her net worth frequently fluctuates with the stock market, but as of early 2024, it has been reported to be well over $99 billion, often exceeding $100 billion, making her the wealthiest woman globally and one of the top overall billionaires. You can find up-to-date estimates on financial publications like Forbes.
- Philanthropy: Beyond her business endeavors, Bettencourt Meyers is also known for her philanthropic work, particularly through the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation, which supports scientific research, arts, and social projects.
The L'Oréal Empire: A Legacy of Beauty
L'Oréal was founded by Françoise Bettencourt Meyers' grandfather, Eugène Schueller, in 1909. Over more than a century, it has grown into a global powerhouse, encompassing a vast portfolio of renowned brands across hair care, skincare, makeup, and fragrances. The company's enduring success and global reach are the primary drivers of the family's immense wealth.
Understanding "Richest"
When determining who is the "richest," financial publications typically refer to an individual's net worth. Net worth is calculated by subtracting liabilities (debts) from assets (stocks, real estate, cash, private companies, etc.). For public figures like Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, their wealth is largely tied to their ownership of publicly traded company shares, meaning their net worth can fluctuate daily with market performance.
