It mightn’t be as prolific or extensive as Forbes’ annual rich list, but there’s a first for everything.
Since pioneering the publication of America’s richest people from 1982 (against much resistance), the iconic business magazine has today given the spotlight to cryptocurrency’s highest achievers. Whilst there’s no denying that the world of cryptocurrency has spawned a slew of overnight millionaires, it’s the billionaires that will really get people talking.
Forbes compiled their latest list with crypto’s hyper-volatility in mind by presenting their candidate’s net worth estimate in ranges (denoted *). These estimate figures take into account the holdings of cryptocurrencies (with some providing proof), post-tax profits from trading crypto-assets and stakes in crypto-related businesses.
This crypto rich list was then further categorised in five groups: idealists, builders, opportunists, infrastructure players and establishment investors.
Scroll through the gallery to find out who made the cut and a little about their background or hit Forbes for the full list of crypto’s wealthiest.
Chris Larsen, 57 | Crypto Net Worth: $7.5 billion - $8 billion*
1/10
Cofounder and former CEO of Ripple, a company which facilitates international payments for banks using blockchain technology. Larsen personally owns 5.2 million XRP, the token launched by Ripple.
Joseph Lubin, 53, Crypto Net Worth: $1 billion-$5 billion*
2/10
Lubin is a former Goldman Sachs executive who went on to become the cofounder of Ethereum and founder of Consensys. The latter company would go on to employ 600 staff across 28 countries before spinning off more crypto companies and tokens.
Changpeng Zhao, 41, Crypto Net Worth: $1.1 billion-$2 billion*
3/10
Zhao created Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange in less than seven months. The company currently boasts 6 million users and Zhao has moved operations numerous times to stay ahead of regulations which could prevent this business’ growth.
Cameron & Tyler Winklevoss, 36, Crypto Net Worth: $900 million-$1.1 billion each*
4/10
The famous twins known for their part in the creation of Facebook have since become crypto heroes, having invested in Bitcoin way back in 2012 and holding onto it.
Matthew Mellon, 54, Crypto Net Worth: $900 million-$1 billion*
5/10
Mellon is an heir to America’s greatest banking fortunes. He invested in cryptocurrency years ago and has since reaped the benefits.
Brian Armstrong, 35, Crypto Net Worth: $900 million-$1 billion*
6/10
Armstrong is the founder of Coinbase, the U.S’ most popular entry point for crypto trading since 2012.
Matthew Roszak, 45, Crypto Net Worth: $900 million-$1 billion*
7/10
Roszak considers himself a lucky early adopter of crypto and took part in the intial offerings of Bitcoin back in 2011. He also gave Richard Branson and Bill Clinton their first Bitcoins.
Anthony Di lorio, 43, Crypto Net Worth: $750 million-$1 billion*
8/10
Di lorio was the co-founder of Ethereum and continues to invest across multiple crypto assets.
Brock Pierce, 37, Crypto Net Worth: $700 million-$1 billion*
9/10
The former child actor who had an appearance in Mighty Ducks was an early digital currency pioneer and funded cryptocurrencies like Mastercoin, Coinbase and Ethereum.
Michael Novogratz, 53, Crypto Net Worth: $700 million-$1 billion*
10/10
Novogratz is a former billionaire and hedge fund manager who began trading cryptocurrency in 2013.