Forbes: The World's Billionaires Just Got Poorer
November 25, 2009 1:58 PM
It has been a tough year for the richest people in the world. Last year there were 1,125 billionaires but this year there are just 793 people rich enough to make it to the Forbes list of billionaires.
Out of the decline of 373, a drop of 355 is due to decline in fortunes and remaining 18 are people who died. The list has 38 newcomers and three moguls who have returned to the list after regaining their 10-figure fortunes.
The worlds richest are also a lot poorer now, the collective net worth of world’s Ritchie Rich is $2.4 trillion, down $2 trillion from a year ago. Their average net worth has also fallen 23% to $3 billion.
Bill gates has returned to the number 1 position with Warren Buffet falling 1 rank and becoming world’s second richest man.
