Table of Contents
Key Points
- Johann Rupert’s net worth surged by $138 million in the first week of 2025, approaching $14 billion after a $1.3 billion increase in 2024.
- Rupert's fortune is bolstered by his 10.18% stake in Richemont, which has grown to $9.42 billion.
- Bloomberg’s valuation of Rupert's wealth surpasses Forbes' estimate, reflecting differences in their methodologies.
Starting the new year on a strong note after a remarkable $1.3 billion increase in his net worth in 2024, South Africa’s richest person, Johann Rupert, has already gained an additional $138 million within the first week of 2025. This recent surge brings his wealth closer to crossing the $14-billion mark—a milestone last achieved in October 2024.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which tracks the fortunes of the world’s 500 richest individuals, Johann Rupert, the 74-year-old chairman of Swiss-based luxury conglomerate Richemont has seen his net worth rise from $13.7 billion on Dec. 31, 2024, to $13.8 billion as of the time of drafting this report.
Richemont shares boost Rupert's holdings
This growth in Rupert's fortune is tied to the robust performance of his holdings in Richemont, the parent company of iconic high-end brands like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Chloé. Richemont’s share price has gained 130 basis points since the start of the year, lifting its market capitalization to CHF75.35 billion ($83.25 billion).
Rupert’s stake in Richemont comprises 6.26 million “A” shares and 522 million “B” shares, giving him a 10.18-percent equity stake and 51 percent of voting rights. The value of his Richemont holdings has risen from $9.28 billion to $9.42 billion, solidifying the company’s pivotal role in underpinning his immense wealth.
Bloomberg valuation outpaces Forbes estimate
With a fortune now valued at $13.8 billion, according to Bloomberg’s real-time billionaires index, Johann Rupert ranks as the 169th richest individual globally, the second wealthiest person on the African continent, and the richest in South Africa.
Interestingly, Bloomberg’s valuation exceeds Forbes’ estimate, which places his net worth at $11.5 billion—a notable difference reflecting variations in their methodologies.
In addition to his wealth derived from Richemont, Rupert holds substantial stakes in other prominent companies, including Reinet Investments, Remgro, and FirstRand, with valuations of $1.23 billion, $384 million, and $149 million, respectively.
Combined, these investments add $1.763 billion to his overall wealth. Furthermore, his cash holdings, estimated at $2.6 billion, highlight his status as one of Africa’s billionaires with the largest liquid assets.
