Top 10 Richest Countries In The World By March 2024
When we think of the world’s richest countries, many may be surprised to find that some of the wealthiest nations are also among the smallest. Countries like San Marino, Luxembourg, Singapore, and Switzerland benefit from factors like sophisticated financial sectors, low tax rates that attract foreign investment, and natural resources like oil and gas reserves.
While gross domestic product (GDP) measures a country’s economic output, a better way to determine a nation’s wealth is to look at purchasing power parity (PPP). PPP accounts for inflation and the cost of living, providing a more accurate picture of the average standard of living.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed inequalities within even the wealthiest nations. While these countries had resources to support those in need, access to these resources was not equal. The pandemic hit low-paid workers harder, fueling a new kind of inequality between those who could work from home and those who risked their health by going to job sites.
| Rank | Country | PPP per capita | Key Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luxembourg | $143,304 | Known for banking secrecy and low tax rates, uses wealth for better housing, healthcare, and education. |
| 2 | Ireland | $137,638 | A corporate tax haven with low 12.5% corporate tax rate attracting major U.S. companies. |
| 3 | Singapore | $133,108 | Thriving trade, manufacturing, and financial hub attracting high-net-worth individuals. |
| 4 | Qatar | $114,210 | Large oil and gas reserves, but impacted by pandemic and falling energy prices. |
| 5 | Macao SAR | $98,157 | Once on its way to becoming the world’s richest nation due to booming gaming industry, but pandemic led to a significant drop in wealth. |
| 6 | Switzerland | $89,537 | Known for banking, tourism, and export of pharmaceuticals, gems, and precision instruments. Highest density of millionaires. |
| 7 | United Arab Emirates | $88,962 | Diversified economy including tourism, construction, trade, finance, and hydrocarbon sector. |
| 8 | San Marino | $84,135 | Oldest republic in Europe, benefits from low income tax rates attracting foreign investment. |
| 9 | Norway | $82,655 | Western Europe’s top petroleum producer, with $1.3 trillion sovereign wealth fund. |
| 10 | United States | $80,412 | Only large country in top 10, entry due to falling energy prices and pandemic-driven economic stimulus measures. |
Challenges and Inequalities Despite their wealth, many of these countries face challenges like income inequality, the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, and the need to address issues like corporate tax avoidance. Ensuring access to resources and opportunities for all remains a key concern.
Luxembourg topped the list with a GDP per capita PPP of $143,304.
Ireland came second with a GDP per capita PPP of $137,638.
Singapore was the third richest country with a GDP per capita PPP of $133,108.
Qatar has large oil and gas reserves that contribute significantly to its wealth, though the pandemic and falling energy prices have impacted its economy.
Macao's booming gaming industry, with over 40 casinos, once put it on track to becoming the world's richest nation before the pandemic led to a drop in its wealth.
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