The youngest billionaire alive is Livia Voigt, a 19-year-old Brazilian university student with an estimated net worth of around US$1.1 billion.
Livia Voigt holds the distinction of being the world's youngest billionaire, representing a significant portion of inherited wealth and family legacy within the global economic landscape. At just 19 years old, she is currently pursuing her university studies while managing a substantial stake in a major industrial enterprise.
The Source of Livia Voigt's Wealth
Voigt's considerable fortune stems from her minority ownership in WEG S.A., a prominent electrical equipment manufacturer based in Brazil. This company was notably co-founded by her late grandfather, Werner Ricardo Voigt. Her wealth is a direct result of her inherited shares in this successful, publicly traded company, rather than from entrepreneurial ventures she initiated herself. This highlights a growing trend where a considerable portion of new, young billionaires acquire their wealth through established family inheritances.
Key Facts About Livia Voigt
For a concise overview of the world's youngest billionaire, the following table summarizes essential details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Livia Voigt |
| Age | 19 years old |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Estimated Net Worth | Approximately US$1.1 billion |
| Primary Source of Wealth | Minority stake in WEG S.A. |
| Connection to Wealth | Granddaughter of WEG S.A. co-founder, Werner Ricardo Voigt |
| Current Status | University student |
The Broader Context of Young Billionaires
While Livia Voigt stands out as the youngest, her profile reflects a broader pattern among many young billionaires who have inherited significant stakes in established family businesses. This contrasts with self-made billionaires who have built their fortunes from scratch through innovation and enterprise. The concentration of wealth, particularly through generational transfers, continues to shape the composition of the world's richest individuals, especially within the younger demographic, emphasizing the powerful role of legacy in wealth accumulation.
To learn more about the world's billionaires and their diverse backgrounds, you can explore detailed profiles on Forbes.com.
