In a country known for its diverse economy and natural resources, Canada’s wealthiest individuals have amassed fortunes that span across various industries, from media and technology to retail and beverages. These billionaires are not just business leaders; they are visionaries who have shaped industries, created jobs, and contributed to the nation’s economy. In 2024, the list of Canada’s richest is a fascinating mix of seasoned entrepreneurs and innovative tech leaders, each with a unique story of success and influence.

This year’s top 10 richest Canadians reflect the country’s economic dynamism and the global reach of Canadian businesses. From the media empire of the Thomson family to Changpeng Zhao’s dominance in cryptocurrency, these individuals showcase the diverse avenues through which wealth can be generated. Let’s explore the inspiring journeys of these Canadian billionaires and how they’ve built their immense fortunes.

1. David Thomson & Family: Media Titans

David Thomson and his family are at the pinnacle of wealth in Canada, with an impressive net worth of $69.3 billion. The Thomson family’s wealth is primarily derived from their ownership of Thomson Reuters, a global media and information services conglomerate. David Thomson, as the current chairman of Thomson Reuters, has played a crucial role in steering the company through the digital age, ensuring its relevance and expansion in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The family’s interests also include significant investments in Bell Canada and The Globe and Mail, one of Canada’s leading newspapers.

Beyond their business ventures, the Thomson family is known for their philanthropic contributions, particularly in the arts. They have supported various cultural institutions in Canada, including the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. The family’s commitment to philanthropy and their strategic investments have solidified their status as influential figures in both the business and cultural sectors of Canada.

2. Changpeng Zhao: The Crypto Giant

Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as “CZ,” has amassed a net worth of $60.3 billion, primarily through his leadership of Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. CZ’s journey to becoming one of the richest people in Canada and the world is a testament to his vision and understanding of the burgeoning cryptocurrency market. Binance has revolutionized the way people trade digital assets, offering a platform that supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies and services, including trading, staking, and lending.

CZ’s influence extends beyond Binance, as he actively promotes the adoption of blockchain technology globally. Despite facing regulatory challenges, Zhao has maintained a forward-looking approach, expanding Binance’s offerings and geographical presence. His success story highlights the potential of the digital economy and the significant impact of cryptocurrencies on global finance.

3. David Cheriton: The Tech Professor

With a net worth of $14.5 billion, David Cheriton is not only one of Canada’s wealthiest individuals but also one of its most intellectually influential. Cheriton, a professor of computer science at Stanford University, gained much of his wealth as an early investor in Google. His deep understanding of technology and his keen investment insights have led him to support several successful tech startups, including Arista Networks and VMWare.

Cheriton’s contributions to the tech industry are not limited to his investments. As an educator and mentor, he has influenced numerous tech leaders and entrepreneurs. He is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting educational and research initiatives. His dual roles as a scholar and investor make him a unique figure in the tech world, blending academic excellence with practical business acumen.

4. Jim Pattison: The Conglomerate King

Jim Pattison, with a net worth of $9.0 billion, is a legendary figure in Canadian business. He founded the Jim Pattison Group, one of the largest privately-held companies in Canada. The conglomerate’s diverse portfolio includes interests in supermarkets, automotive dealerships, media, and packaging. Pattison’s business empire is renowned for its scale and diversity, making him a prominent player in various sectors.

Beyond his business ventures, Pattison is a noted philanthropist, having donated generously to healthcare and education. His contributions include the establishment of the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital and significant support for other medical institutions. His philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to giving back to the community, making him a respected and influential figure in Canadian society.

5. Joseph Tsai: The E-Commerce Visionary

Joseph Tsai, co-founder of Alibaba Group, has a net worth of $8.7 billion. His role as the executive vice-chairman of Alibaba has been pivotal in the company’s expansion into one of the world’s largest e-commerce platforms. Tsai’s strategic vision and leadership have helped Alibaba diversify into various sectors, including cloud computing, digital media, and entertainment.

In addition to his business achievements, Tsai is an active sports team owner, with stakes in the Brooklyn Nets and other sports franchises. He is also a prominent philanthropist, supporting a range of causes, including education and medical research. Tsai’s multifaceted career highlights his influence in both the business and philanthropic arenas, making him a key figure in global commerce.

6. Alain Bouchard: The Convenience Store Mogul

Alain Bouchard, with a net worth of $7.8 billion, is the founder of Alimentation Couche-Tard, one of the largest convenience store operators in the world. The company’s vast network includes popular brands such as Circle K, Ingo, and Mac’s. Bouchard’s entrepreneurial journey began with a single store, and under his leadership, Couche-Tard has grown into a multinational corporation with a presence in numerous countries.

Bouchard’s business strategy focuses on acquisitions and operational efficiency, which has driven the company’s growth. He is also known for his charitable contributions, particularly in the fields of healthcare and education. Bouchard’s story is one of relentless growth and innovation, making him a significant figure in the retail industry.

7. Anthony von Mandl: The Beverage Innovator

Anthony von Mandl, with a net worth of $7.1 billion, made his fortune in the alcoholic beverage industry. He is the founder of the Mark Anthony Group, known for popular brands like Mike’s Hard Lemonade and White Claw. Von Mandl’s innovative marketing strategies and product development have revolutionized the ready-to-drink beverage market, making these brands household names.

In addition to his success in beverages, von Mandl is a respected vintner, owning Mission Hill Family Estate, a renowned winery in British Columbia. His contributions to both the beverage and wine industries showcase his versatility and creativity as an entrepreneur. Von Mandl’s achievements highlight the potential of innovation and branding in creating successful consumer products.

8. Peter Gilgan: The Builder of Dreams

Peter Gilgan, with a net worth of $6.1 billion, is the founder of Mattamy Homes, the largest privately-owned homebuilder in North America. Gilgan’s company has built thousands of homes across Canada and the United States, known for their quality and innovation in community planning. His focus on sustainable and family-friendly developments has set new standards in the homebuilding industry.

Gilgan is also a prominent philanthropist, donating generously to healthcare, education, and sports. His notable contributions include a significant donation to the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, helping to fund critical medical research and care. Gilgan’s dual focus on business excellence and community support has made him a highly respected figure in both the business and philanthropic communities.

9. Mark Scheinberg: The Online Gaming Pioneer

Mark Scheinberg, with a net worth of $5.6 billion, co-founded PokerStars, one of the most successful online poker platforms in the world. The company revolutionized the online gambling industry, providing a secure and accessible platform for poker enthusiasts globally. In 2014, Scheinberg and his father sold their stake in PokerStars for $4.9 billion, marking one of the largest deals in online gambling history.

Since the sale, Scheinberg has focused on investments and philanthropy. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, supporting education, healthcare, and animal welfare. Scheinberg’s story is one of innovation and strategic exits, making him a notable figure in both the online gaming and investment worlds.

10. Tobi Lutke: The E-Commerce Visionary

Tobi Lutke, with a net worth of $5.6 billion, is the co-founder and CEO of Shopify, a leading e-commerce platform that empowers businesses to sell online. Lutke’s vision for a user-friendly and accessible platform has transformed Shopify into a global leader in e-commerce solutions, supporting millions of businesses worldwide. His background as a software developer has been instrumental in shaping Shopify’s innovative technology.

Lutke is also recognized for his leadership in corporate culture and social responsibility. He has implemented policies that support work-life balance and remote work, making Shopify a desirable workplace. Lutke’s commitment to innovation and ethical business practices has made him a respected figure in the tech industry, as well as a key influencer in the global e-commerce space.