Soaring stocks created 2 million new millionaires last year
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- Global millionaire population grew 7.9% to 25.3 million in 2025, with total wealth rising 8.7% to $98.3 trillion, driven by soaring stock markets, per Capgemini's World Wealth Report.
- Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) with $30 million+ grew 9.4% to 250,000 and hold 35% of all millionaire wealth, benefiting from exclusive access to higher-return private investments.
- The U.S. added 730,000 new millionaires, reaching 8.73 million, while Asia saw strong growth led by Korea and Taiwan; Europe and Latin America experienced modest increases, and the Middle East saw a decline.
- Millionaires increased stock holdings to 25% of portfolios in 2025, reducing cash and alternative investments, reflecting a greater risk appetite amid continued equity market gains.
- Wealthy investors are diversifying advisors, with a quarter using four to six advisors, and increasingly turning to roboadvisors, RIAs, and family offices; firms must offer personalized services and build trusted relationships to retain clients.