L’Oréal Heiress Françoise Bettencourt Meyers Becomes First Woman to Achieve $100 Billion Fortune

In a historic achievement, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, the heiress of L’Oréal, has secured the distinction of being the first woman to amass a fortune exceeding $100 billion. This notable accomplishment places her as the 12th richest individual globally, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

The surge in wealth comes on the back of a remarkable stock market performance by the French beauty empire, founded by her grandfather. L’Oréal shares reached an all-time high in Paris, signalling the company’s robust recovery in sales post-pandemic. During lockdowns, reduced makeup usage contributed to a decline in the beauty industry, but L’Oréal has rebounded strongly.

At 70 years old, Ms. Bettencourt Meyers, who serves as the vice-chairperson of L’Oréal’s board, oversees the fortunes of the beauty giant. Her family holds the most substantial stake in the company, accounting for approximately 35% of the total shares.

While achieving the $100 billion milestone, Françoise Bettencourt Meyers remains behind French counterpart Bernard Arnault, the founder of LVMH, with a net worth of $179 billion. LVMH is the world’s largest luxury group, boasting renowned brands such as Louis Vuitton and Fendi.

Françoise Bettencourt Meyers assumed the role of L’Oréal’s heiress after the passing of her mother, Liliane Bettencourt, in 2017. Liliane, a frequent occupant of France’s wealthiest person title, was known for her close ties with French leaders. However, her later years were marked by a public dispute with Françoise, involving accusations of exploitation by a photographer and socialite. The legal battle concluded in 2011, affirming Françoise’s control over Liliane’s wealth due to her mother’s diagnosed form of dementia.

Notably private, Ms. Bettencourt Meyers avoids high-profile social events and prefers a secluded family-focused life. Apart from her business responsibilities, she dedicates several hours a day to playing the piano and has authored two books—an extensive study of the Bible in five volumes and a genealogy of the Greek gods. Her unique approach to wealth and privacy sets her apart in the realm of global billionaires.