The world “earned” 46,000 ultra-rich people last year, according to a report by Credit Suisse released on Tuesday (20). In all, there are 264,200 people who finished 2021 with an estimated fortune of more than $50 million USD. 21% growth compared to 2020.
The study shows that even among this elite, there are rich people who are much richer than the others: 84,790 people owning more than $100 million – and among them, 7,070 individuals, more than $500 million.
Millionaires and income concentration
The Bank estimated the number of people in the world at over US$1 million at 62.5 million – 5.2 million more than in 2020. Among them, 266 are Brazilians.
The data confirms the greater concentration of wealth in the hands of a few: the survey shows that the richest 1% own, at the end of 2021, 45.6% of total global wealth. In 2019, this share was 43.9%.
However, an analysis of average wealth by country shows that wealth inequality has declined this century (at least in geographical terms), thanks to higher growth in emerging markets.
The United States was the richest country last year: 30,470. It is followed by China with 5,200. The super-rich club has also gained 1,750 members in Germany, 1,610 in Canada and 1,350 in Australia.
Falls have been recorded in a few places: Switzerland (-120), Hong Kong (-130), Turkey (-330) and the United Kingdom (-1,130).
The report notes that global wealth grew by 9.8% in 2021 to $463.6 trillion. Looking at exchange rates, the increase was 12.7% – the highest annual growth rate ever.
However, the bank warns that factors such as inflation, rising interest rates and declining asset prices “could reflect impressive growth in 2022.”
Billionaires lose $1.4 trillion in the first half of 2022
However, it is estimated that global wealth will grow by about $169 trillion by 2026 – an increase of 36%. Low and middle income countries are expected to account for 42% of this growth over the next five years.
With this, it is estimated that the number of millionaires will reach 87 million, while the number of the super-rich will reach 385 thousand.
Charlotte Whitmore is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and practical information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the UK and beyond.