Bill Gates named world's richest person for 16th time
Bill Gates has been declared the richest man in the world for the 16th time by Forbes magazine’s annual ranking of billionaires.
The Microsoft founder remained ahead of Mexican telecoms businessman Carlos Slim, as Gates’ net worth rose by over $3bn, or £1.94bn in the year to 13 February. His total worth is $79bn.
Once again, the technology sector dominated the list, as did the US, who took 15 of the top 20 spots on the Forbes list.
Forbes 2015 ranking of richest people:
1. Bill Gates $79.2bn (Microsoft)
2. Carlos Slim Helu $77.1bn (Phones and construction in Mexico)
3. Warren Buffett $72.7bn (Global investor)
4. Amancio Ortega $64.5bn (Zara and other fashion chains)
5. Larry Ellison $54.3bn (Oracle data storage technology)
6. Charles Koch $42.9bn (Industrialist)
7. David Koch $42.9bn (Industrialist)
8. Christy Walton $41.7bn (Walmart retail giant)
9. Jim Walton $40.6bn (Walmart retail giant)
10. Liliane Bettencourt $40.1bn (L'Oreal cosmetics firm)