There are around 2,668 billionaires in the world, but just 327 people in this select economic club women - worth a total of $1.56 trillion.
While some of these women are heiresses to fortunes, others are self-made as they founded or co-founded profitable businesses that lead to their wealth.
These are the mega-rich tycoons whose vast wealth means they are able to influence the world in a multitude of ways - from the economy, to politics, our media and much more.
Here are the 10 richest women in the world, how they earned their wealth - and what their net worth is according to Forbes.
9. Iris Fontbona
Iris Fontbona is the widow of Chilean magnate Andrónico Luksic, her source of wealth is described as "Mining" by Forbes, her net worth is $22.8 billion. Photo: bancochile via Flickr
10. Abigail Johnson
Abigail Johnson has acted as CEO of Fidelity Investments since 2014 when she took over for her father Ned Johnson III, her net worth stands at $21.2 billion. Photo: YouTube Screengrab via ForbesWomen