There are many billionaires in the world, but very few who derive their wealth from both historical heritage and national influence. The King of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn, also known as Rama X, is one of the most notable figures in this regard. With an estimated wealth of around 43 billion dollars, he is referred to as the richest king in the world.
Here are the discussions about Rama X's wealth, life, and the controversies created by his reign...
He ascended to the throne in 2016 after the death of his father, King Bhumibol, and took full control of the Crown Property Bureau (CPB). This institution, previously seen as connected to the state, came directly under the king's authority from 2018 onwards.
The enormous real estate assets and strategic investments in the business world of the CPB have made Rama X one of the wealthiest monarchs in the world. Owning more than 17,000 properties in Bangkok makes him one of the largest landowners in the capital. Additionally, the income derived from telecommunications companies, large banks, and hotels brings billions of dollars to the royal treasury.
He has more than 300 luxury cars in his collection; countless options from Rolls Royces to the latest sports cars fill his garage. But it doesn't stop there, he owns a fleet of 38 aircraft, ranging from private jets to helicopters. Each of these vehicles, designed according to royal protocol, symbolizes his lavish lifestyle.
In addition, he presents a spectacle of splendor combined with Thailand's cultural heritage with 52 gold-embellished barges. These barges, used in royal river ceremonies, are both a traditional bond in the eyes of the people and an element reflecting the magnificence of the kingdom. However, this splendor often becomes a topic of debate while economic inequalities persist in the country.
The $500 million stake in Siam Commercial Bank and the $150 million investment in Thailand's largest cement company are just the visible part of this fortune. The CPB, which was tax-exempt in previous years, added about $300 million in annual income to his personal wealth when it came under the direct control of the king.
However, the king's investments are not limited to Thailand. He is known to own properties worth millions of dollars abroad. His $13 million mansion in Germany is just one of them.