The second richest woman in the world is Alice Walton and the 21st richest person overall. She commands attention not just due to her staggering net worth but also for her influential role in the realms of art, philanthropy, and business. As the only daughter of Samuel Walton, the founder of Walmart, Alice has carved out her own path while maintaining the family’s financial empire.
According to the 2024 Forbes World’s Billionaires List, Walton boasts a net worth of $72.3 billion. This remarkable figure represents a considerable increase from her previous valuations: $56.7 billion in 2023, $65.3 billion in 2022, and $61.8 billion in 2021. This impressive surge in wealth can be attributed to a significant 34% rise in Walmart’s share price over the past year. With such gains, Alice Walton not only reaffirms her status as the richest woman in the USA but also continues to solidify her standing in the global billionaires’ hierarchy.
Beyond her financial prowess, Alice Walton has left indelible marks in the world of art and culture. She established and currently serves as the chairman of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, located in Bentonville, Arkansas. The museum, named after the nearby Crystal Spring, opened its doors in 2011 and has since been a beacon of cultural enrichment and artistic expression. Under Walton’s stewardship, Crystal Bridges has grown to house an extensive collection of American masterpieces, attracting art aficionados and scholars from around the globe.
Walton’s journey to her esteemed position began with her early career in finance. She worked as an equity analyst and money manager for First Commerce Corporation, where she honed her investment skills. Subsequently, she led investment activities at Arvest Bank Group, further solidifying her reputation in the financial world. In 1988, demonstrating her entrepreneurial acumen, Walton founded Llama Company, an investment bank that operated until the late 1990s.
Her impact extends beyond finance and art.
. Alice Walton was the first to head the Northwest Arkansas Council, an influential organization aimed at improving the infrastructure and economic development of the region. Additionally, she remains committed to healthcare advancements and education, as evidenced by her contributions to the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine in her hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas.
Alice Walton’s financial ascent is often compared to the standings of her brothers. Jim Walton holds the 18th position on the global rich list with a net worth of $78.4 billion, while Rob Walton ranks 19th with a wealth of $77.4 billion. Despite these close standings, Alice’s influence in sectors like art and education gives her a unique edge and identity apart from her brothers.
In recent years, Alice Walton has also set her sights on Texas, vying for the top economic position within the state. This ambition places her in direct competition with other high-profile billionaires, including Elon Musk. Walton’s strategic investments and ceaseless endeavors make her a formidable contender in this high-stakes arena.
Walton’s story is a testament to her multifaceted capabilities and unyielding drive. While her immense wealth commands headlines, it is her contributions to the cultural, healthcare, and educational landscapes that truly distinguish her legacy. Through the Crystal Bridges Museum and the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, she continues to shape future generations, ensuring her influence transcends the confines of wealth and ventures into the realms of societal impact and cultural legacy.
As we move further into 2024, Alice Walton’s trajectory remains a source of fascination and inspiration. From her foundational role at Walmart to her expansive cultural and philanthropic pursuits, Walton’s diverse interests and investments speak to a life led with purpose and vision. Her journey reflects a blend of personal ambition and a genuine commitment to enhancing the world around her. In the unfolding story of the world’s wealthiest individuals, Alice Walton’s chapter is one of rich complexity, underscored by her relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation.
