SINGAPORE - In a stunning revelation from Forbes’ latest annual list of global billionaires,

paint mogul Goh Cheng Liang has claimed the top position as the richest individual in Singapore for 2025. This significant shift marks a remarkable ascent for Goh, who tops the rankings with an impressive net worth of US$13 billion.

Following closely behind are Li Xiting

the visionary founder of medical devices giant Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics, securing second place with a net worth of US$12.8 billion, and tech entrepreneur Forrest Li, the CEO of Sea, illustriously positioned in third place with his financial fortune soaring to US$8.6 billion. Li’s wealth more than doubled from US$3.6 billion in the previous year, fueled by booming profits from Sea's e-commerce subsidiary, Shopee, and its fintech arm, SeaMoney.

This year's list showcases 49 billionaires hailing from Singapore,

a remarkable increase from the 39 listed in 2024. Collectively, these billionaires have amassed a staggering US$145.2 billion (S$195 billion), highlighting the flourishing wealth within the Republic.

The millionaire landscape didn't witness any dropouts,

and newcomers enriched the ranks. Notable new entrants include Quek Leng Chye, managing director of Hong Leong Holdings, boasting a net worth of US$1.1 billion, and Lim Kaling, a co-founder of gaming powerhouse Razer, with US$1.2 billion.

Adding to the illustrious roster are the three sons of the late banking mogul Wee Cho Yaw—UOB CEO Wee Ee Cheong and his brothers,

who have a combined wealth of US$6 billion, up from US$4.2 billion last year.

Internationally, the billionaire landscape has transformed dramatically,

with the 2025 list witnessing a record 3,028 billionaires—a 247 increase from 2024. Their total net worth skyrocketed to US$16.1 trillion, nearing a US$2 trillion increase compared to last year. Among these billionaires, the spotlight shone brightly on Elon Musk, who regained the title of the world's richest person, with his fortune soaring to an astounding US$342 billion, largely due to significant gains from Tesla and valuations in his other ventures.

In other news, former President Donald Trump made headlines by ranking 700th worldwide,

more than doubling his fortune to about US$5.1 billion, a testament to his successful media pursuits and burgeoning cryptocurrency investments.

As Singapore's economic landscape continues to evolve,

it's clear that these billionaires are not just wealth figures but also pivotal players in shaping global markets, innovations in technology, and advancements in healthcare sectors. Who knows what fortune will unfold next year in this wealthy metropolis? Stay tuned!