This is the woman who will take over Walmart, and she is the one with the most money in the world.

Alice Walton, daughter of Sam Walton, founder of Walmart, has become the richest woman in the world, with an estimated fortune of 101 billion dollars. This figure places her at the top of the global ranking, surpassing Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, heir to L'Oréal, who had held this title for the last four years. According to Forbes, Walton's wealth has increased by 28.7 billion dollars in the past year, driven by a 40% increase in the value of Walmart shares.

This impressive increase in her fortune is linked to Walmart's success, which remains a giant in retail despite global economic difficulties. Although inflation has affected many sectors, Walmart has managed to keep its prices low, which has ensured a loyal customer base. Alice Walton's stake in Walmart has been key in her rise to the centibillionaire club, a select group to which only 15 people in the world belong.

The path to success and her passion for art

Alice Walton has not only achieved this milestone by being an heir to Walmart: her career and life are marked by a personal focus on creation and culture. Over the years, Walton has had a successful career in finance, but her true passion has been art. After studying at Trinity University and working in the family business, Walton led the Walton bank and founded her own investment bank, Llama Company, in 1988.

However, it was in art where she found her true vocation: as a child, Walton painted watercolors and, as an adult, she began collecting works by various well-known artists. In 2011, Alice Walton opened the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Arkansas, a 1.6 billion dollar museum with the mission of making art accessible to everyone. The museum has become an important cultural center, with free admission for visitors.

Philanthropy and social commitment

Throughout her life, Alice Walton has shown a deep commitment to philanthropy. She has invested 5.8 billion dollars in various foundations that seek to improve people's quality of life. In 2024, Walton funded the creation of a medical school, aimed at improving traditional medical education by integrating arts, humanities, and holistic health.

In addition to her philanthropic activities, Alice Walton is also known for her warmth and hospitality. At her ranch in Texas, Walton is an active host, takes care of cooking for her guests, and, although she has help for cleaning, she prefers to participate in meal preparation. This closeness and her practical approach to everyday life contrast with the image of one of the most powerful women in the world.