The Richest Women in the World

Bangalore: The world of business is largely male dominated and fighting to the top is no easy task. However, there are a few women who, with inherited fortunes Christy Walton and conquered the path to glory like Gina Rinehart, have made a niche for themselves. Here are the richest women in the world.

1. Christy Walton

Age: 56
Country: United States
Net worth: $24.5 Billion
Company: Walmart
Currently: Philanthropist

Christy Walton inherited a fortune of $15.7 billion in 2005 after the death of John T. Walton, one of the sons of the founder of Wal-Mart, Sam Walton. She is considered to be the richest women alive, the sixth richest in the United States and the 10th richest person in the world. A large bulk of her calculated net worth of $26.5 billion comes from her shares in Wal-Mart and First Solar, a solar panel maker in which her husband invested. According to the amount she gives as a percentage of her wealth, she has been ranked the highest female philanthropist and 2002-2006, Walton contributed billions from her then $16.3 billion net worth to charity.