From Jozi to the World: The South African Billionaires Dominating the US, UK, and Australia in 2025

They may have left our shores, but their roots are unmistakably South African. From Silicon Valley giants to London investment moguls, here’s where SA’s billionaire exports are thriving in 2025.

South Africa has long been known for its gold, diamonds, and citrus exports. But some of our most valuable exports? Billionaires. Not just any billionaires, but world-leading tycoons who were born here and now dominate global wealth rankings.

Whether they’re launching rockets, controlling mining empires, or reshaping the music industry, these visionaries carry a piece of South Africa with them.

Where Are They Now?

Let’s start with the obvious: Elon Musk, born in Pretoria, is the richest person on Earth in 2025. With a net worth surpassing $405 billion, he’s officially listed under the US, but South Africans still claim him (especially on X, where debates rage over whether he’s still “one of us”).

Then there’s Dr Patrick Soon-Shiong, the Port Elizabeth–born surgeon turned pharmaceutical tycoon. Now worth $5.6 billion, he’s a key player in US medical innovation, proving that South African brilliance extends far beyond mining and tech.

And don’t forget Nathan Kirsh, the low-profile retail king. Based in Eswatini but controlling Jetro Holdings (the force behind US giant Restaurant Depot), his $7.9 billion fortune would make him a top contender if he still called South Africa home.

The Australian Connection

Mining magnate Ivan Glasenberg, born in South Africa, is now one of Australia’s wealthiest, with Forbes valuing him at $9.9 billion in 2025. Former Glencore CEO, he’s a prime example of how South African business acumen translates globally.

Joining him is Kerr Neilson, the investment guru whose $1 billion fortune keeps him firmly in Australia’s financial elite.

South Africans on the UK Rich List

The UK’s Sunday Times Rich List still features a few South African-born power players.

Leading the pack is Clive Calder, the music industry legend behind Zomba Group (think Britney Spears’ early hits). His net worth has climbed to $6.9 billion, proving that hitmakers can also be money magnets.

Then there’s Manfred Gorvy, the London finance mogul sitting comfortably at $1 billion.

While some names (like Mark Shuttleworth and Tony Tabatznik) have faded from the UK lists, their South African origins remain a point of pride back home.

Back Home: The Billionaires Who Stayed

South Africa still boasts its own ultra-wealthy, led by Johann Rupert ($14.5 billion), Nicky Oppenheimer ($10.5 billion), and Koos Bekker ($3.6 billion). Others, like Patrice Motsepe, Michiel le Roux, Jannie Mouton, and Christo Wiese, continue to invest locally.

But what sets them apart? They’ve chosen to keep their wealth and loyalty right here.

Why It Matters

The global success of South African-born billionaires isn’t just about money. It’s a testament to the talent this country produces.

Some see it as a brain drain. Others see it as global domination. Either way, one thing’s clear: South Africa breeds world-class visionaries. And whether they’re in Cape Town or California, their roots remain undeniably Mzansi.

Also read: From Megabytes to Millions: South Africa’s Best Paid Telecoms CEOs in 2025

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Source: Business Tech

Featured Image: iStock