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Ultra-Wealth Surges as US Extends Lead and India Rises

Tech-fueled gains combined with tax changes are shifting where the ultra-rich live.

Overview

  • Knight Frank’s 2026 Wealth Report, released Thursday, counts 713,626 people worth over $30 million, up from 551,435 in 2021, and puts the billionaire tally at 3,110 with a forecast near 4,000 by 2031.
  • The United States hosts about 251,000 ultra-wealthy and captured the largest share of new fortunes over the past five years.
  • Mainland China remains second at 121,677, though its global share is easing, and Hong Kong is forecast to rebound about 25% by 2031 after a small drop since 2021.
  • India ranks sixth with 19,877 ultra-wealthy in 2026 and is projected to grow 27% by 2031, with billionaires rising 51% to 313.
  • The UK is set for weak growth after abolishing non‑dom tax status, with Knight Frank linking the shift to slower inflows and softer demand for prime London property.