L'Oréal Heiress Francoise Bettencourt Meyers Breaks $100 Billion Barrier as World's Richest Woman

Francoise Bettencourt Meyers, the L'Oreal heiress, has become the first woman to reach a $100 billion fortune, propelled by the company's stock reaching a record high. She is now the 12th-richest person globally, behind Carlos Slim but still far from Bernard Arnault's $179 billion. Her wealth reflects France's significant presence in the luxury retail sector, with families like Hermes and the Wertheimers of Chanel also holding substantial fortunes. Despite her immense wealth, Bettencourt Meyers maintains a private life, focusing on intellectual pursuits and music.