Colombia's economic landscape is significantly influenced by its billionaires, whose investments span banking, real estate, fintech, and media. These individuals not only drive economic growth but also shape the nation's philanthropic endeavors and corporate governance. According to Forbes' 2026 Billionaires List, Colombia is home to several billionaires, with the richest individuals holding substantial stakes in major industries.
This article delves into the profiles of the top 10 richest Colombians in 2026, highlighting their sources of wealth, major holdings, and contributions to the country's development.
Key Takeaways
David Vélez, originally from Medellín, Colombia, co-founded Nubank in 2013, aiming to revolutionize banking in Latin America. Under his leadership, Nubank has grown to serve millions of customers across Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. Vélez's commitment to financial inclusion and innovation has positioned him as a leading figure in the fintech industry. He is also known for his philanthropic efforts, focusing on education and technology accessibility.
Jaime Gilinski Bacal is a prominent Colombian banker and investor. He has played a pivotal role in the development of Panama Pacifico, one of the largest real estate projects in Latin America. His investments span various sectors, including banking, real estate, and media, through entities like Banco GNB Sudameris and Grupo Nutresa. Gilinski's strategic acquisitions and mergers have solidified his position as one of Colombia's wealthiest individuals.
Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo is a self-made billionaire and the founder of Grupo Aval, Colombia's largest banking group. His conglomerate encompasses major financial institutions like Banco de Bogotá and BAC Credomatic. Sarmiento's conservative management approach has enabled his businesses to thrive, even during economic downturns. He is also involved in philanthropic activities, including significant donations to support families in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Alejandro Santo Domingo is a Colombian-American businessman and philanthropist. He is a major shareholder in Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world's largest beer company, and has significant investments in media and other sectors. Through his family's investment firm, Quadrant Capital, Santo Domingo oversees a diverse portfolio of assets. His philanthropic efforts focus on education, health, and cultural initiatives.
Andrés Santo Domingo is a Colombian-American businessman and a key figure in the Santo Domingo family's business empire. He holds significant stakes in Anheuser-Busch InBev and Grupo Aval, contributing to his substantial wealth. Santo Domingo is also known for his philanthropic activities, supporting various cultural and educational initiatives.
Carlos Ardila Lülle was a Colombian businessman who founded Postobón, one of Colombia's leading beverage companies. He also owned RCN Media Group, a major media conglomerate. His business ventures have left a lasting impact on Colombia's beverage and media industries.forbes.com
Carlos Slim is a Mexican business magnate and one of the richest individuals in the world. His wealth primarily stems from his holdings in telecommunications through América Móvil and diversified investments in various sectors via Grupo Carso.
Germán Efromovich is a Colombian-Brazilian businessman known for his investments in aviation and energy. He is the founder of Avianca Holdings, one of Latin America's largest airlines, and leads Grupo Synergy, a conglomerate with interests in various industries.
Carlos Julio Ardila Lülle is the son of Carlos Ardila Lülle and continues to manage the family's business interests in beverages and media. He oversees operations at Postobón and RCN Media Group, ensuring the legacy of his father's enterprises.
Luis Carlos Sarmiento Jr. is the son of Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo and plays a crucial role in the management of Grupo Aval and its subsidiaries. He is being groomed to take over the family's vast business empire, ensuring its continued success.
As of 2026, David Vélez is recognized as the richest person in Colombia, with a net worth of $10.7 billion. His innovative leadership of Nubank, a digital banking platform, has significantly reshaped financial services in Latin America. With his remarkable business acumen and commitment to improving financial inclusion, Vélez has risen to the top of Colombia's wealth rankings. His wealth is primarily tied to his stake in Nubank, which has rapidly grown in value, making him a key figure in both the fintech and banking sectors.
At present, the richest woman in Colombia is Shakira, the globally renowned singer, songwriter, and philanthropist. While not necessarily a conventional billionaire like the other names on this list, Shakira's immense fortune, estimated at around $300 million, stems from her career in music, endorsement deals, and her investments in various business ventures. Apart from her entertainment career, Shakira is also known for her philanthropic work through the Barefoot Foundation, focusing on improving education for disadvantaged children in Colombia. She continues to be one of the most successful and influential Colombians worldwide, thanks to her combination of wealth and social impact.
The Bottom Line
The stories of Colombia’s wealthiest individuals are often rooted in a blend of visionary entrepreneurship, strategic investments, and a keen understanding of market trends. These billionaires, through their diverse investments in banking, media, telecom, and fintech, have contributed to transforming Colombia’s economic landscape. Their wealth not only highlights their business savvy but also their impact on the nation's job creation, philanthropy, and global influence. For aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders, their stories underscore the importance of innovation, persistence, and taking calculated risks in the pursuit of wealth and success.
The Fineducke Team is a group of passionate writers, researchers, & finance enthusiasts dedicated to helping the youth make smarter money decisions. From saving tips, investment ideas to digital income guides, our team works together to bring you easy-to-understand, practical content tailored for everyday life believing financial education should be simple & relatable.
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