This means that her staggering wealth is equivalent to more than 20 Buckingham Palaces, which is valued at around £3.9 billion.
Bettencourt Meyers, 71, owes her immense fortune to her family’s 33% stake in L’Oréal, the global cosmetics giant founded by her grandfather, Eugène Schueller, in 1909.
Based in Paris, the billionaire is a mother of two and serves as the chair of her family’s investment firm, Téthys Invest, which manages a diverse portfolio spanning pet care, fashion, and education.
Bettencourt Meyers became the heiress to the L’Oréal empire in 2017 after the death of her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, who was previously the world’s richest woman.
Under her leadership, the company has grown to dominate the global cosmetics market, with a valuation of nearly £150 billion.
Her fortune has also allowed her to support cultural and philanthropic projects.
In 2019, Bettencourt Meyers and L’Oréal pledged £176 million ($226 million) to help rebuild the Notre Dame Cathedral after it was severely damaged in a fire.
But, despite her vast wealth, Bettencourt Meyers is known for keeping a low profile, focusing on her family and business.
She has also authored several academic works, including commentaries on the Bible.
Although her fortune dipped earlier this year due to market fluctuations, Bettencourt Meyers remains one of the most influential women in business.
Her financial standing continues to place her among the world’s elite, and her family’s close ties to L’Oréal ensure her wealth is likely to remain substantial for years to come.
