As we step into 2025, Forbes has revealed the wealthiest individuals in the United Kingdom based on its real-time billionaire list. This comprehensive list tracks the daily net worth of the world’s wealthiest individuals, offering insight into their financial standings as of the close of trading on December 30, 2024.
Globally, the top spot is held by Elon Musk, who boasts a jaw-dropping net worth of $428.8 billion. He is followed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Oracle chairman Larry Ellison. But within the UK, a different set of names dominates the list, spanning industries such as finance, manufacturing, real estate, technology, and online business. Here is a detailed look at the 10 wealthiest Britons, their industries, and how they amassed their fortunes.
1. Michael Platt – $18 Billion
Topping the UK’s rich list is Michael Platt, a renowned name in the hedge fund industry. The 56-year-old is the co-founder and CEO of BlueCrest Capital Management, a London-based hedge fund firm he established in 2000 after nearly a decade of working at JP Morgan. Under his leadership, BlueCrest has grown into one of the largest hedge fund firms in the world, managing billions in assets and delivering high returns for its clients.
Platt’s journey to the top is a testament to his financial acumen and strategic vision. He is often praised for his ability to navigate volatile markets, which has been key to BlueCrest’s success. Today, he is ranked 107th on the global billionaire list, making him the wealthiest individual in the United Kingdom.
2. Sir Jim Ratcliffe – $15.8 Billion
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, 71, is the founder and majority owner of the Ineos Group, a multinational chemical company based in London. Known for his hands-on leadership style and business acumen, Ratcliffe built Ineos into a global powerhouse in the chemical industry. The company has also ventured into the UK’s shale gas sector and made strategic acquisitions, including two chemicals businesses from BP in 2021.
Ratcliffe’s interests extend beyond chemicals. He owns a 28% stake in Manchester United, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, further cementing his influence in both the business and sports arenas. Ranked 133rd globally, Ratcliffe remains one of the most prominent figures in British industry.
3. Sir James Dyson – $13.3 Billion
Inventor and entrepreneur Sir James Dyson is synonymous with innovation in household technology. The 77-year-old founded Dyson Ltd. in 1991, revolutionizing the vacuum cleaner market with his bagless design. Over the years, the company has expanded its product line to include air purifiers, hand dryers, and haircare devices, employing more than 5,000 engineers worldwide.
Dyson’s contributions to British industry have earned him numerous accolades, including a knighthood in 2007 for his services to business and technology. Residing in Gloucestershire, he ranks 168th globally, underscoring his enduring impact on both the UK and global markets.
4. Alexander Gerko – $10.2 Billion
Alexander Gerko is a financial innovator and the founder of XTX Markets, a trading company that has set new benchmarks in the industry. Established in 2015, XTX Markets specializes in algorithmic trading and has achieved record profits in recent years.
Gerko, originally from Russia, moved to the UK in 2006 and became a British citizen. His firm is recognized as the largest provider of emerging market foreign exchange services and continues to lead in financial technology. Ranked 247th globally, Gerko’s story highlights the opportunities available to skilled entrepreneurs in the UK.
5. Sir Christopher Hohn – $9.5 Billion
Sir Christopher Hohn, 58, is the founder of The Children’s Investment Fund (TCI), a London-based hedge fund he established in 2003. Known for his philanthropic efforts, Hohn has donated billions to various causes, particularly in the areas of education, climate change, and healthcare.
Hohn’s educational background includes a degree from Southampton University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He was knighted in 2014 for his contributions to philanthropy and international development. Currently ranked 273rd globally, Hohn’s work exemplifies the blend of business success and social responsibility.
6. David and Simon Reuben – $9.3 Billion Each
The Reuben brothers, David (86) and Simon (83), are veterans of the property and technology industries. Starting with investments in metals trading and carpet importing, the brothers eventually transitioned to real estate, building a portfolio that includes high-value properties across London and beyond.
In 2016, the duo sold 49% of their data center business, GlobalSwitch, to Chinese investors for nearly $3 billion, further bolstering their wealth. They also own an estimated 14% stake in Newcastle United, contributing to their high-profile status. Both are ranked 279th globally.
7. Denise Coates – $9.3 Billion
Denise Coates, 57, is a trailblazer in the online gambling industry. As the founder and co-CEO of Bet365, she transformed a small betting shop into one of the world’s largest online gambling platforms. Launched in 2001, Bet365 handles billions of dollars in wagers annually and is renowned for its innovative technology.
Coates’ contributions to business and the community earned her a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) honor in 2012. Ranked 284th globally, she remains a pivotal figure in the digital economy.
8. Nikolay Storonsky – $7.9 Billion
Nikolay Storonsky, 40, is the co-founder and CEO of Revolut, a fintech company that has revolutionized digital banking. With services ranging from currency exchange to stock trading, Revolut was valued at $45 billion in 2024.
Storonsky, who renounced his Russian citizenship in 2022, now holds British citizenship and oversees one of the fastest-growing fintech companies in the world. He ranks 348th globally, a testament to his impact on the financial services industry.
9. Anthony Bamford and Family – $7.3 Billion
Anthony Bamford, 79, and his family own JCB, a construction equipment manufacturer founded by his father in 1945. Known for its innovation and quality, JCB generates nearly $7 billion in annual revenue and operates in 150 countries.
Bamford retired from the House of Lords in March 2024, marking the end of his formal political career. Ranked 401st globally, the Bamford family continues to shape the construction industry.
10. Sir Leonard Blavatnik – $7.1 Billion
Sir Leonard Blavatnik, originally from Ukraine, built his fortune through investments in diverse industries, including music and chemicals. His Warner Music Group acquisition has paid off significantly in recent years. Blavatnik ranks 410th globally.
Takeaway
These 10 individuals showcase the diversity of industries that contribute to wealth creation in the UK. From finance and technology to manufacturing and sports investments, the UK’s wealthiest billionaires have built their fortunes through innovation, strategic investments, and hard work. Their global rankings further emphasize their influence, not just in the UK but on the world stage.
