Who is the richest man in the world? Different people define riches differently. However, when it comes to cold hard cash, the world’s richest people come from all different backgrounds. From business tycoons, heirs to family fortunes, tech gurus, actors, rappers, and online celebrities, the rich and famous enjoy lavish lives: 5th Avenue spending sprees, private jets, oceanside mansions, and extravagant jewelry. But who are these people and where did they get their fortunes? These days many of the world’s richest people made their money by starting or investing in technology companies that would go on to reshape our lives along with the world economy. Founders and CEOs of Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, and other tech brands have racked up billions over the years (and even given a lot of it back to charity or startup investing). Similarly, as entertainment industry expands from music, movies and TV into video games, apps, and other high-tech industries, the men and women making money off pop culture have seen similar successes. Cable companies, film studios, and video game developers have all grown exponentially in the past decade - especially as the Internet has made engaging with entertainment easier than ever before. However, some things never change: real estate is still one of the best ways to turn any aspiring millionaire into a full-on billionaire - just as finance, banking, and investing still produce many of the world’s biggest money makers. After all, the more money and assets you have available, the easier it becomes to purchase more, expanding your influence and overall wealth. Of course, these are only a few ways that the world’s most wealthy people earned their fortunes. Would you believe that a former toy maker is now a billionaire? If he can make it happen, you’re only one good idea away from being on this list!