Europe’s UHNW Population Grows 14.5%

The global UHNW population (with wealth exceeding $30 million) grew to just over half a million people last year, marking an approximately 14% year on year growth, and the highest since 2017. This cohort collectively possesses wealth exceeding $63 trillion, which is more than double the annual GDP of the US economy, according to Altrata’s World Ultra Wealth Report 2026.

The highest concentration of this population is in North America, followed by Asia and then Europe. Globally, most ultra-high-net-worth individuals hold about 63% of their wealth in public and private business interests. Real estate, luxury goods, vehicles and collectibles make up less than 10% of total wealth holdings.

The combined wealth of Europe’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals grew 15.2% in 2025 to $16.3 trillion, marginally surpassing Asia. Ultra-wealth portfolios in Europe saw robust growth in 2025, as global investors reduced their exposure to US assets and shifted capital into European stocks, attracted by their relative stability and valuations. Stronger currency appreciation against the dollar and lower interest rates further lifted asset values. These factors aided wealth portfolios in Europe to grow despite concerns over US trade policies as well as weak economic conditions in Germany, the UK, and France.

Banking and finance sectors were the leading source of wealth followed by consumer services, hospitality and entertainment. Europe has the lowest concentration of tech-generated wealth among the world's major wealth centres, trailing both North America and Asia.

Around two-thirds of Europe's ultra-high-net-worth individuals are self-made. However, this is way below North America's share, where four-fifths of the ultra-wealthy have built their fortunes independently.

In the first half of 2026, wealth growth was impacted by geopolitical tensions and technological disruptions. Early optimism faded after the US-Israel war with Iran triggered a supply shock, weakening risk sentiment and global equities. Asian and European markets were the most exposed. Although corporate earnings and economic activity remained relatively resilient amid continued uncertainty.

Altrata predicts that the global UHNW population will see 6% CAGR till 2030. and cross 0.74 million individuals, Their combined net worth is expected to swell to $85 trillion. This growth will be driven by the restructuring of the world economy around AI, energy transition, and digital infrastructure.

Among the three major regions - North America, Asia & Europe, Asia is expected to record the highest growth in UHNW population. Europe’s CAGR may be limited to 5.6%.

Among key global cities, India’s capital Delhi is expected to see the fastest growth in the UHNW cohort, followed by Stockholm and Wuhan in China.