Outlook Business Desk
The global billionaire population is expected to rise sharply over the next five years as technology, investment and business expansion drive wealth creation. According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report 2026, billionaire numbers increased 14% between 2021 and 2026.
According to the report, the number of billionaires worldwide increased from 2,723 in 2021 to 3,110 in 2026, marking a 14% rise within five years across global markets.
The report projects the global billionaire population will grow 26% by 2031, reaching nearly 3,915. The rise is expected to accelerate as wealth creation expands across emerging and developed economies worldwide.
Saudi Arabia is expected to record the world’s fastest billionaire growth by 2031. Its billionaire population could jump 183% from 23 to 65 as Vision 2030 projects, foreign investment and non-oil sectors continue expanding rapidly.
Europe is projected to play a major role in billionaire expansion, with numbers expected to rise from 780 in 2026 to 994 by 2031. The region could witness a 27% increase led largely by Nordic economies.
Poland is forecast to lead Europe with billionaire numbers rising from 13 to 29, reflecting 123% growth. Sweden follows with an 81% increase while Denmark may see billionaire numbers climb 75%.
Norway is expected to increase its billionaire count from 17 to 26 by 2031, marking 53% growth. The report highlights Nordic countries among Europe’s strongest performers in billionaire expansion over the coming years.
India ranks 10th among the fastest-growing billionaire populations globally. The country’s billionaire count is projected to increase by 51% over five years while India is expected to lead the 2031 total billionaire rankings.
The top countries for billionaire growth by 2031 are Saudi Arabia, Poland, Sweden, Australia, Denmark, Japan, Mexico, Philippines, Norway and India. The rankings are based on projected five-year percentage growth in billionaire populations worldwide.