Discover the richest Israelis in 2026 and learn powerful wealth lessons from billionaires like Miriam Adelson and the Ofer brothers.
In 2026, global wealth has reached record levels. According to Forbes’ 40th annual billionaires list, the world now has 3,428 billionaires with a combined net worth of $20.1 trillion. That’s an increase of 400 billionaires and nearly $4 trillion more wealth than last year.
One of the most surprising highlights this year is the rapid rise of Israeli billionaires. A record 52 Israelis made the list in 2026, with a combined fortune of $308 billion. Even during challenging geopolitical periods, Israel continues to produce entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors who are shaping the global economy.
For women interested in business, entrepreneurship, and financial independence, these stories offer powerful lessons about resilience, smart investing, and innovation.
The Global Billionaire Landscape in 2026
Technology continues to dominate global wealth creation. Artificial intelligence, software platforms, and tech infrastructure are producing new billionaires faster than ever before.
The richest people in the world in 2026 include:
- Elon Musk – $839 billion
- Larry Page – $257 billion
- Sergey Brin – $237 billion
- Jeff Bezos – $224 billion
- Mark Zuckerberg – $222 billion
- Larry Ellison – $190 billion
- Bernard Arnault & family – $171 billion
- Jensen Huang – $154 billion
- Warren Buffett – $149 billion
- Amancio Ortega – $148 billion
Seven of the world’s ten richest individuals built their fortunes in technology, highlighting how industries like AI, cloud computing, and digital platforms are shaping the future of wealth.
For women pursuing careers in business or tech, this trend shows where the biggest opportunities lie.
Israel’s Billionaire Boom
Israel continues to punch far above its weight economically. With a population of under 10 million, the country now boasts 52 billionaires, up from 50 last year and 42 just two years ago.
Their combined wealth grew 24% in a single year, reaching about $308 billion.
Israel’s success is driven largely by:
- Technology and startups
- Global shipping and logistics
- Finance and investment
- Real estate and infrastructure
For women looking to build financial security, these sectors provide valuable insights into where wealth is being created.
Miriam Adelson: The Richest Person in Israel
The richest Israeli in 2026 is Miriam Adelson, ranked 56th in the world with a fortune of $37.5 billion.
Adelson inherited and expanded the empire built by her late husband Sheldon Adelson. Today she controls:
- A majority stake in the Las Vegas Sands casino and hotel empire
- Ownership of the Dallas Mavericks NBA team
- Major media holdings including Israel Hayom and Makor Rishon
Adelson’s success demonstrates the growing influence of women in global business leadership and investment.
Idan Ofer’s Massive Wealth Surge
One of the biggest financial jumps this year belongs to Idan Ofer, whose wealth grew by $12.1 billion in a single year.
His fortune now stands at $34.6 billion, placing him 61st in the world.
Ofer’s wealth is largely tied to:
- Quantum Pacific Group
- Global shipping giant Eastern Pacific Shipping
- Investments in energy, infrastructure, and sports
His investment in the Spanish football club Atlético Madrid also proved extremely profitable. Eight years ago, he invested €100 million for 32% ownership, when the club was worth around $300 million. Today, its valuation is nearly ten times higher.
The Ofer Brothers: A Global Shipping Dynasty
Idan Ofer’s brother Eyal Ofer is not far behind.
With a net worth of $33.6 billion, he ranks 62nd globally.
Eyal leads Ofer Global, a multinational investment company with interests in:
- Shipping
- Real estate
- Energy
- Technology
His company Zodiac Maritime operates a fleet of nearly 190 ships, making it one of the world’s largest private shipping companies.
The Ofer brothers inherited their father Sami Ofer’s shipping empire in 2011 and successfully expanded it into a global business powerhouse.
Other Israeli Billionaires on the Rise
Several other Israeli entrepreneurs saw significant wealth growth in 2026:
- Yitzhak Tshuva – $8.3 billion after a $3.4 billion increase
- Michael Federman – $10.1 billion, nearly doubling his fortune
- Shlomo Eliyahu – $3.2 billion
- Arkady Volozh, founder of Yandex – $3.2 billion
These leaders represent industries ranging from energy and finance to technology and insurance.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in New Wealth
Artificial intelligence is one of the biggest drivers behind the new billionaire wave.
At least 86 billionaires on the list built their fortunes primarily through AI-related businesses. Half of them became billionaires within the past year alone.
The richest newcomer is Edwin Chen, founder of the AI company Surge, with an estimated fortune of $18 billion at age 38.
For women interested in launching businesses or entering high-growth industries, AI is clearly one of the most promising sectors today.
What Women Can Learn from the Billionaire Surge
While billionaires may seem far removed from everyday life, their journeys offer valuable insights:
1. Technology creates opportunity
Fields like AI, fintech, and software continue to produce massive wealth.
2. Smart investments matter
Strategic investments—like sports teams or tech startups—can multiply wealth over time.
3. Global thinking is essential
Many of these billionaires operate businesses across multiple continents.
4. Women are gaining influence in finance and leadership
Figures like Miriam Adelson show that women are increasingly shaping global industries.
The 2026 billionaire rankings highlight a rapidly changing world where technology, innovation, and global investment create new fortunes every year.
For women looking to build wealth, grow a business, or explore new career paths, the key takeaway is clear: opportunities are expanding faster than ever.
Whether through entrepreneurship, investing, or leadership roles in high-growth industries, the next generation of success stories could very well include more women than ever before.
