In a world where business empires are often dominated by men, a group of powerful women is quietly — and boldly — rewriting the narrative. These women aren't just billionaires; they are visionaries, investors, and entrepreneurs shaping industries across fashion, pharmaceuticals, tech, and media. The companies they lead or own stand as symbols of wealth, innovation, and influence.
While many of these women feature in the TOP 10 RICHEST WOMEN IN THE WORLD, their success is not just about inheritance — it's about leadership, strategic growth, and a powerful sense of purpose. Let's take a closer look at the top companies that these extraordinary women are behind.
1. L'Oréal – Françoise Bettencourt Meyers
As the heiress to the L'Oréal empire, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers is currently the richest woman in the world. L'Oréal, a global cosmetics giant, continues to grow under her influence, expanding into sustainable beauty, technology-driven skincare, and diverse marketing.
2. Mars Inc. – Jacqueline Mars
Jacqueline Mars owns one-third of Mars Inc., the family-run food company behind iconic brands like M&M's, Snickers, and Pedigree. The privately held company is one of the largest in the U.S., with diversified interests in pet care and nutrition.
3. Zara (Inditext) – Sandra Ortega Mera
Daughter of Zara co-founder Amancio Ortega, Sandra Ortega Mera holds a significant stake in Inditex, the parent company of Zara. The company is known for revolutionizing fast fashion, and Sandra plays a quiet yet influential role in its operations.
4. BMW – Susanne Klatten
Germany's Susanne Klatten owns nearly 20% of BMW, one of the most prestigious automotive companies in the world. She's also involved in pharmaceutical and chemical companies through Altana AG, showcasing her diverse investment portfolio.
5. Amazon (formerly) – MacKenzie Scott
After her divorce from Jeff Bezos, MacKenzie Scott received a significant stake in Amazon. While no longer active in the company's operations, her financial power remains notable. Her focus today is on philanthropy, donating billions to social and educational causes.
6. Chanel – Gérard Wertheimer (via inheritance through family)
While Gérard and Alain Wertheimer are the face of Chanel, the influence of their female relatives, including family heiress relatives like Géraldine Wertheimer, plays a role in the luxury house's generational wealth. Chanel remains one of the most iconic luxury brands globally.
7. Dell Technologies – Randa Duncan Williams
Part of the Duncan family, which made its fortune in oil and energy, Randa Duncan Williams holds stakes in major corporations like Dell Technologies through her inheritance from Enterprise Products Partners.
8. H&M – Stefan Persson Family (through inheritance including Charlotte Söderström)
While not often in the spotlight, Charlotte Söderström, from the H&M founding family, has a stake in the global fast fashion brand. H&M continues to innovate in eco-fashion and digital retail strategies.
9. Alibaba Group – Lucy Peng (Peng Lei)
One of Alibaba's original co-founders, Lucy Peng played a major role in developing Ant Financial, now Ant Group, a financial technology giant in China. She continues to be a prominent tech entrepreneur and investor.
10. Meituan – Wang Laichun
Wang Laichun is the chairwoman of Luxshare Precision, a major Apple supplier in China. Her company has grown rapidly in the electronics manufacturing space, making her one of the richest self-made women in tech.
Beyond Billion-Dollar Empires
At The Global Hues, we believe the stories of these influential women go beyond wealth. They represent the evolving face of leadership — where business meets purpose, and power is wielded with grace and vision. Through our platform, we shed light on such inspiring journeys to spark meaningful conversations and lasting impact.
Want to know more about the trailblazing women shaping global wealth? Don't miss our full coverage on the TOP 10 RICHEST WOMEN IN THE WORLD and their powerful stories.
Because at The Global Hues, we don't just tell stories — we bring voices to life.
