2014 is the 28th year publishing the Forbes Billionaires list. To compile net worths, individuals’ assets – including stakes in public and private companies, real estate, yachts, art and cash – are valued and estimates of debt are taken into account. The Forbes Billionaires ranks individuals rather than large, multi-generational families who share large fortunes. Royal family members or dictators who derive their fortunes entirely as a result of their position of power as well as royalty who, often with large families, control the riches in trust for their nation are not included. Estimates provided are a snapshot of wealth on Feb. 12, when stock prices and exchange rates from around the world were locked in. If a stock market wasn’t open on that day, the stock price is from the previous trading day.
