Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has won back his top spot on the annual Forbes list of the world’s richest people, sliding Mexico telecommunications businessman Carlos Slim Helu to the number two role.
Mr. Helu has been at the top of the list for four years running, International Business Times reported.
Mr. Gates’ wealth increased by $9 billion this past year, bringing his accumulation to $76 billion. Mr. Helu, by comparison, claimed a fortune of $72 billion for the past year, IBT reported.
This year’s list was marked by a record number of women, Forbes reported.
“Our global wealth team found 1,645 billionaires with an aggregate net worth of $6.4 trillion, up from $5.4 trillion a year ago,” Forbes reported.
“We unearthed a record 268 new ten-figure fortunes, including 42 new women billionaires, another record. In total, there are 172 women on the list, more than ever before and up from 138 last year.”
Warren Buffett came in at fourth, with $58.2 billion. And number three: Amancio Ortego, the Spanish founder of the clothing company Inditex SA.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.