On April 29, Kate Middleton will cease to be a commoner and will marry into one of the oldest and wealthiest royal families still in existence. While the royal family fulfills only a ceremonial role in U.K. politics (and fodder for those keen on fashion or gossip) and Miss Middleton will be assuming no rulership or political power, there is no question that her lifestyle and living conditions are about to change dramatically. (For related reading, also take a look at America's Richest Sports Team Owners.)
With the upcoming nuptials in mind, it is worth a look a look at the those surviving royal families that still command significant resources and/or power. Unlike entrepreneurs, these are individuals who owe their wealth to circumstances of birth and the privileges of their position, not to actual talent or effort. Nevertheless, many of them command resources that cannot be ignored.
Thailand Takes the Top Spot
Thailand's King Bhumibol holds the top spot on top important lists. Not only is Bhumibol the longest-reigning monarch alive today, but he is also the wealthiest. According to Forbes, Bhumibol's fortune is estimated to be worth upwards of $30 billion, much of that built through investments in native Thai businesses like Siam Cement and Siam Commercial Bank. Although King Bhumibol has relatively little power as a constitutional monarch, he has intervened in Thai politics many times to help resolve crises and stories of his poor health have led to sell-offs on the Thai Stock Exchange.
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http://financialedge.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0411/The-Worlds-Richest-Royals.aspx
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