British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murthy have made significant strides in the annual Sunday Times Rich List, advancing from 275th place last year to 245th this year. The couple's estimated wealth now stands at GBP 651 million, marking them as the wealthiest occupants of 10 Downing Street to date. This notable rise in their fortunes is largely attributed to Murthy's substantial shareholding in Infosys, the Indian IT giant co-founded by her father, Narayan Murthy.
Murthy's shareholding in Infosys has proven exceptionally lucrative. Over the past year, the value of these shares has increased by GBP 108.8 million, bringing their total value to nearly GBP 590 million. In addition to the appreciation in share value, Murthy has received dividends totaling approximately GBP 13 million over the past year, with expectations of an additional GBP 10.5 million in dividends this year.
This financial surge has positioned Sunak and Murthy ahead of even King Charles III on the wealth index, underscoring the significant economic clout they bring to their political residence.
At the pinnacle of the Sunday Times Rich List is the Hinduja family, of Indian origin, with a staggering wealth exceeding GBP 37.196 billion. Their latest venture, the OWO Hotel in London, has further solidified their financial dominance. Following closely behind in third place are the India-born brothers David and Simon Reuben, who have amassed a fortune of approximately GBP 24.977 billion.
The Rich List of 2024 also features several other prominent billionaires of Indian origin. Notable names include steel magnate Lakshmi N. Mittal, industrialist Anil Agarwal, polyester tycoon Prakash Lohia, retail entrepreneurs Mohsin and Zuber Issa, and engineering magnates Navin and Varsha Engineer. These individuals continue to play a significant role in the global economy, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the world's wealthiest.
Rishi Sunak's ascent in political and financial realms underscores the intertwining of business and governance. As Prime Minister, Sunak's wealth and economic connections are under scrutiny, with public interest in how these factors influence his political decisions. Meanwhile, Akshata Murthy's role as a significant shareholder in a major global company highlights the growing influence of women in the corporate world.
The couple's enhanced standing on the Rich List reflects broader trends in wealth accumulation and the global influence of Indian-origin entrepreneurs. Their story is a testament to the impact of strategic investments and the enduring legacy of entrepreneurial success across generations.
In summary, the rise of Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murthy in the Sunday Times Rich List not only marks a personal milestone but also sheds light on the significant contributions of Indian-origin billionaires to the global economy. Their wealth, derived from strategic shareholdings and dividends, exemplifies the fusion of business acumen and heritage, positioning them prominently on the world stage.