It’s the start of another year and 2026 is already looking like being 12 months of turmoil and uncertainly.
Around the world cost of living crises are continuing to bite, with many experiencing a declining quality of life.
But for the super-rich it seems like a time of plenty, with many of the wealthiest continuing to grow their fortunes unaffected (or boosted) by world events.
Last year’s second inauguration of President Donald Trump was a blunt reminder - if needed - of the way money and power are closely entwined.
Elon Musk may have been the highest profile billionaire to offer Trump his support (before their spectacular falling out), but sitting next to him at the ceremony were tech tycoons Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos.
They all feature prominently in this list of the 14 richest people in the world at the start of 2026 according to the experts at Forbes.
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9. Warren Buffett - $146.8 billion
95-year-old Warren Buffett is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway and has become one of the best-known investors in the world. As a result of his success backing the right companies at the right time he's worth an estimated $146.8 billion - a slight increase on his $143.4 billion worth a year ago. | AFP via Getty Images
10. Amancio Ortega - $145 billion
A less well-known billionaire, Amancio Ortega is a Spanish businessman who specialises in so-called fast fashion. He founded the fashion group, which includes chainstore Zara. He has a fortune of around $145 billion at the moment. | AFP via Getty Images
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11. Steve Ballmer - $144.5 billion
Another Microsoft billionare, Steve Ballmer ran the computer company from 2000-2014. The LA Clippers basketball team owner has a net worth of around $144.5 billion. | Getty Images
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12. Michael Dell - $139.9 billion
Founder, chairman, and CEO of Dell Technologies - one of the world's largest technology infrastructure companies - Michael Dell has built a fortune estimated at $139.9 billion. | Getty Images