Cypriot Magnates Shine on Forbes Billionaires List
The Mediterranean island of Cyprus, often celebrated for its azure coasts and rich history, is now making waves in the world of high finance. The Forbes World’s Billionaires List for 2024 has recognized ten individuals with Cypriot citizenship, showcasing a diverse array of industries from shipping to real estate and software. Among the esteemed names is the Haji-Ioannou family, known for their budget airline easyJet.
Vinod Adani, with a staggering net worth of $23 billion, leads the Cypriot contingent at 88th place globally. Although he resides in Dubai, his Cypriot citizenship highlights the island’s broadening international influence. The Adani group, with its roots in commodities trading, has expanded into a conglomerate with interests in ports, airports, and green energy.
John Fredriksen, another titan of industry, commands a fortune from the bustling shipping sector. At 79 years old and based in London, Fredriksen’s net worth is an impressive $16.9 billion. His fleet includes oil tankers and LNG carriers, underscoring the strategic importance of maritime logistics.
The list also features other notable Cypriot passport holders such as Yakir Gabay, Sergey Dmitriev, Valentin Kipyatkov, Igor Makarov, and Vladimir Krupchak. Each has made significant contributions to their respective fields.
From the Haji-Ioannou family, Polys Haji-Ioannou stands out with a net worth of $1.3 billion. His wealth is not only tied to easyJet but also to his own shipping endeavors and substantial real estate investments in prime locations like Cyprus, Greece, Monaco, and London.
Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the visionary behind easyJet, holds a net worth of $1.2 billion. After parting ways with his father’s shipping business, he revolutionized air travel with his low-cost carrier model. His siblings Clelia and Polys are also significant shareholders in the airline.
Clelia Haji-Ioannou herself has amassed a considerable portfolio of European real estate and an impressive art collection featuring works by Picasso, Warhol, and Dali. With a net value of $1.1 billion, she is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives among
The presence of these magnates on the Forbes list is a powerful reminder of Cyprus’s growing stature as a nexus for global business leaders and innovators.
