The 2025 edition of The Sunday Times Rich List reveals a significant shift in the UK’s wealth landscape, marked by a notable decrease in the number of billionaires and a substantial increase in King Charles III’s personal fortune.
A Record Drop in Billionaires
For the first time since the list’s inception in 1989, the number of UK-based billionaires has fallen sharply—from 165 in 2024 to 156 in 2025. This decline is attributed to factors such as global stock market volatility, influenced by U.S. trade tariffs under President Trump, and domestic policy changes like the abolition of the ‘non-dom’ tax status by the Labour government.
Notable individuals who have dropped off the list include French luxury magnate François-Henri Pinault and his wife Salma Hayek, the Fayed family, and South African diamond tycoon Nicky Oppenheimer.
King Charles III’s Wealth Surges
King Charles III’s personal wealth has increased by £30 million over the past year, bringing his total fortune to £640 million. This rise elevates him 20 places to rank 238th on the list, placing him on par with former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty.
The King’s wealth comprises inherited investments and private estates, including Sandringham and Balmoral, valued at approximately £73 million and £278 million respectively. These figures exclude crown assets and the Royal Collection, which are held in trust for the nation.
Top of the List: The Hinduja Family
For the fourth consecutive year, Gopi Hinduja and his family lead the Rich List with a fortune of £35.3 billion, despite a £2 billion decrease from the previous year. They are followed by the Reuben brothers, David and Simon, with £26.87 billion, and Sir Leonard Blavatnik with £25.73 billion.
Emerging Trends and New Entrants
The total wealth of the top 350 individuals and families has declined by 3% to £772.8 billion. Despite this, new entrants have made their mark. U.S. television personality Ellen DeGeneres debuts on the list with a fortune of £363 million after relocating to England’s Cotswolds.
Other notable newcomers include tech entrepreneur Alex Kendall and the Beahon brothers of sportswear brand Castore, reflecting a shift towards self-made wealth in technology and innovation sectors.
Calls for Wealth Tax Intensify
The concentration of wealth among the UK’s richest has prompted renewed calls for a wealth tax. The group Patriotic Millionaires argues that taxing the £772 billion held by the top 350 could significantly bolster public services, such as the National Health Service.
