The world's richest people now control nearly $60 trillion - here's how they're investing their fortunes

"The world's wealthiest individuals are getting richer - and younger - and they're changing the rules of wealth itself. According to Altrata's World Ultra Wealth Report 2025, at the end of June, 510,810 ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) - each worth over $30 million - controlled $59.8 trillion in combined wealth. That's double the size of the entire US GDP. Their portfolios, industries, and even philanthropy are shifting fast, driven by tech, geopolitics, and a massive generational wealth transfer."

"Amid trade wars, election shocks, and a volatile global economy, the ultrawealthy are thriving. Their collective wealth rose by 6.7% in the first half of 2025, after an 11.6% surge in 2024 -the third strongest expansion in a decade. North America remains the world's top wealth hub, home to 208,090 UHNW individuals worth a combined $24 trillion, or 41% of global UHNW wealth."

"A seismic shift is underway. By 2040, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z will make up 80% of the global ultrawealthy population, up from 33% now. Baby boomers - now about 45% of the ultra-rich - are steadily ceding ground as massive intergenerational wealth transfers take place. Altrata says the " Great Wealth Transfer" will reshape investment strategies, philanthropy, and luxury consumption for decades."

At mid-2025, 510,810 ultra-high-net-worth individuals (each worth over $30 million) controlled $59.8 trillion in combined wealth. Collective UHNW wealth rose 6.7% in the first half of 2025 after an 11.6% surge in 2024. North America hosts 208,090 UHNWIs holding $24 trillion (41% of global UHNW wealth), Asia has 129,100 holding $14.8 trillion, and Europe holds $14.7 trillion. Africa’s UHNW population grew 7.5% driven by demand for critical minerals and a rising middle class. Millennials and Gen Z are reallocating from stocks to real estate, art, and venture investments. Gen X through Gen Z will comprise 80% of the ultrawealthy by 2040, reducing baby boomers’ share.

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