Highlights
- Shah Rukh Khan enters the Hurun Global Rich List for the first time with an estimated net worth of $1.3 billion.
- The list counts 4,020 billionaires worldwide, up from 3,442 the previous year.
- India now has 308 billionaires, making it the third-largest billionaire hub after the United States and China.
- Elon Musk remains the world’s richest person as wealth growth continues to be driven by technology and artificial intelligence sectors.
Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Shah Rukh Khan has entered the Hurun Global Rich List 2026 with an estimated fortune of $1.3 billion, marking a milestone for one of India’s most recognisable film stars.
The ranking, released by the Hurun Research Institute, tracks billionaire wealth as of January 15, 2026. Published on March 5, the report highlights the continued expansion of global wealth, with the number of billionaires rising by 17 per cent over the past year.
India’s billionaire count reaches 308
According to the report, India now has 308 billionaires, an increase of 57 compared with the previous year. The country ranks third globally, behind the United States and China, in terms of the number of ultra-wealthy individuals.
The report also notes that billionaires in India are now spread across 91 cities, suggesting a broader distribution of wealth beyond traditional financial centres such as Mumbai and Delhi. Key sectors driving this growth include financial services, property, construction, technology and pharmaceuticals.
Indian business leaders such as Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani remain among the country’s most prominent billionaires, while newer entrants highlight the rise of entrepreneurship across multiple industries.
Shah Rukh Khan’s business ventures boost wealth
Khan’s entry into the global list reflects his success beyond cinema. Through his production company Red Chillies Entertainment, the actor has backed major commercial successes including Pathaan and Jawan.
He is also co-owner of the Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders, which has become one of the league’s most recognisable teams. In addition, Khan earns from global endorsements and brand partnerships, adding to his business portfolio.
Together, these ventures, spanning film production, sports investment and brand collaborations, have helped build a diversified source of income beyond acting.
Global wealth expands as technology drives growth
The Hurun Global Rich List 2026 counts 4,020 billionaires across 73 countries, up from 3,442 the previous year. The report says that sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy and consumer technology have been major contributors to wealth creation.
Elon Musk continues to top the list, with fortunes tied to companies such as Tesla and SpaceX. Meanwhile, China remains home to the largest number of billionaires, reflecting its strong manufacturing and technology base.
Hurun compiles the rankings using public filings, private company valuations, stock market data and foreign exchange rates as of January 15 each year, offering a snapshot of global wealth trends.
