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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13. Rob Walton and family - $132.1 billion
Heir to the Walmart empire, Rob Walton is the eldest son of the founder of the world's largest retail chain, Sam Walton, and served as company chairman from 1992 to 2015. The owner of the Denver Broncos is worth an estimated $132.1 billion. | Getty Images
14. Jim Walton and family - $129.4 billion
Coming just behind his big brother and completing our list is is fellow Walmart heir Jim Walton and his fortune of around $129.4 billion. | Getty Images