South Africa's billionaire elite: How 7 men built their fortunes
In South Africa, a handful of influential businessmen have taken this notion to new heights, transforming family fortunes, bold moves, and savvy investments into global business empires worth billions.
According to Forbes' real-time billionaire tracker, seven South African billionaires now collectively command a staggering $36 billion (R647 billion) in net worth, cementing their place in the upper echelons of global wealth.
From mining to media, retail to finance, their stories – though diverse – share common themes: strategic vision, intergenerational capital, and a keen sense of timing.
While some billionaires inherited strong foundations, others built their empires from smart bets and timely pivots.
Their journeys underscore the power of compound wealth – growing riches over time through reinvestment and diversification.
While some figures remain controversial, particularly due to the stark inequalities in South Africa, their influence over business and markets is undeniable.
In a country grappling with rising living costs and high unemployment, the extreme wealth at the top continues to spark conversation.
But it also demonstrates how capital, when carefully managed, can span generations and borders.
Whether admired or critiqued, these men represent the sharp end of South Africa's financial pyramid – where money not only begets more money, but also power, access, and influence on a global stage.
As the old adage goes: 'The rich get richer.'
Meanwhile, in terms of the overall world list, South Africa-born Elon Musk remains the world's richest person with a reported $398 billion.
Below, the list of the top seven richest South Africans in the world as of 4 August 2025. Rank Name Last week This week Source 204 Johann Rupert & family $13.5bn $12.7bn Luxury goods 273 Nicky Oppenheimer & family $10.4bn $10.4bn Diamonds 1 055 Koos Bekker $3.7bn $3.7bn Media, investments 1 185 Patrice Motsepe $3.4bn $3.3bn Mining 1 531 Michiel Le Roux $2.5bn $2.5bn Banking 2 059 Jannie Mouton & family $1.8bn $1.8bn Retail 2 195 Christo Wiese $1.6bn $1.6bn Financial services TOTAL $36.9bn $36bn
Net Worth: $12.7 billion
Industry: Luxury Goods, Finance
At the top of the list is Johann Rupert, chair of Compagnie Financière Richemont, the Swiss luxury goods group behind brands like Cartier, Montblanc, and Dunhill. With significant holdings in financial services and investments, Rupert has masterfully expanded his wealth while maintaining a relatively low public profile.
Net Worth: $10.4 billion
Industry: Diamonds, Investment
The former chairman of De Beers, Nicky Oppenheimer sold the family's 40% stake in the diamond giant to Anglo American for $5.1 billion in 2012. Since then, he has grown his fortune through private equity investments and conservation initiatives across Africa.
Net Worth: $3.7 billion
Industry: Media, Technology
Known for turning Naspers into a global tech giant, Koos Bekker made headlines by investing early in China's Tencent. That decision alone brought in tens of billions for Naspers. Bekker's strategic leadership transformed the company from a local media firm into a global player.
Net Worth: $3.3 billion
Industry: Mining, Finance
Patrice Motsepe made his fortune through African Rainbow Minerals, becoming South Africa's first black billionaire. A key figure in Black Economic Empowerment, he also holds a stake in financial services firm Sanlam and is a noted philanthropist and investor in sports.
Net Worth: $2.5 billion
Industry: Banking
Founder of Capitec Bank, Michiel Le Roux revolutionised South Africa's banking landscape by creating a low-cost, accessible banking model. The bank's growth and profitability have made it a darling on the JSE and a consistent driver of Le Roux's wealth.
Net Worth: $1.8 billion
Industry: Investments
The founder of PSG Group, Jannie Mouton earned the nickname 'Boere Buffett' for his savvy investment strategy. PSG has stakes in Capitec, Curro (education), and various agricultural and financial firms, making Mouton a quiet force in South African business.
Net Worth: $1.6 billion
Industry: Retail
Despite setbacks with the collapse of Steinhoff, Christo Wiese remains a retail titan with interests in Shoprite and other ventures. Once South Africa's richest man, Wiese is rebuilding and diversifying his portfolio.
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