Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud Net Worth: A Look into the Wealth of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince
Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud, often referred to as MBS, is a name that resonates with immense power and wealth. As the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, his financial influence extends far beyond the borders of his country. From luxury yachts to billion-dollar investments, MBS’s wealth is intricately tied to the oil-rich economy of Saudi Arabia and his control over the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This article explores the many facets of Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud’s net worth, providing a glimpse into his lavish lifestyle, strategic investments, and the controversies that surround him.
Key Takeaways
- MBS owns some of the world’s most expensive assets, including a $450 million painting, a $300 million French château, and a $550 million superyacht.
- Saudi Arabia’s wealth is heavily reliant on oil, with Saudi Aramco being a key contributor to the Al Saud family’s fortune.
- The Public Investment Fund, controlled by MBS, plays a significant role in his financial power and global influence.
- MBS’s spending habits, including luxury purchases, have drawn global attention and criticism.
- Despite controversies, MBS is central to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at diversifying the economy beyond oil.
The Lavish Lifestyle of Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud
When people wonder, “How rich is Muhammad bin Salman?” the answer is pretty jaw-dropping. The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, often referred to as MBS, lives a life that’s as extravagant as it gets. His wealth, tied closely to the massive oil reserves of Saudi Arabia and the Al Saud dynasty, is reflected in every corner of his lifestyle.
Luxury Yachts and Private Jets
Let’s start with the yachts and jets—because why not? MBS owns the Serene, a superyacht that reportedly cost him around $550 million. This isn’t just any boat; it’s basically a floating palace. Add to that his fleet of private jets, which make international travel not just convenient but downright opulent. It’s no wonder the Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud Net Worth is a hot topic in every corner of the world.
Extravagant Real Estate Holdings
Now, let’s talk about real estate. Mohammed bin Salman’s house—or should we say houses—are the stuff of legends. One of his most famous purchases is the Château Louis XIV in France. This $300 million estate has everything from a wine cellar to a moat with an underwater chamber. It’s not just a home; it’s a statement. And that’s just one of his many properties. With holdings like these, it’s clear that MBS isn’t just living; he’s living large.
Art Collections Worth Millions
Art is another area where MBS doesn’t hold back. Remember the Salvator Mundi, the painting attributed to Leonardo da Vinci? He reportedly bought it for a staggering $450 million. That’s right—one painting for almost half a billion dollars. His art collection isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a reflection of his immense wealth and influence. It’s a topic that often sparks comparisons to others in the family, like Turki bin Salman Al Saud Net Worth, but let’s be real—MBS is in a league of his own.
From yachts to castles to priceless art, the Crown Prince’s lifestyle is a masterclass in extravagance. And while his wealth is often tied to his role as a leader and a member of the Al Saud dynasty, it’s also a window into the sheer scale of Saudi Arabia’s oil-driven fortune. Whether it’s his properties, his art, or even the way he travels, everything about MBS screams luxury.
How Oil Wealth Fuels the Al Saud Dynasty
Saudi Aramco’s Role in the Family’s Fortune
Let’s be real—when you think of Saudi Arabia, oil is probably the first thing that comes to mind. And for good reason. Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil giant, is like the crown jewel in the kingdom’s treasure chest. It’s not just any company; it’s the biggest oil company in the world. We’re talking trillions of dollars in market value. The Al Saud family’s fortunes are deeply tied to this behemoth. Through Saudi Aramco, they’ve got their hands on a steady cash flow that’s almost impossible to wrap your head around. This isn’t just pocket change—it’s the kind of money that funds mega-projects, buys fleets of private jets, and keeps the royal family’s lavish lifestyle going strong. Without Saudi Aramco, the Al Saud dynasty wouldn’t be what it is today.
The Public Investment Fund’s Billion-Dollar Assets
Now, let’s talk about the Public Investment Fund, or PIF. It’s basically Saudi Arabia’s piggy bank, except this one doesn’t just sit there collecting dust; it’s out there making moves. MBS, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is often called, has turned the PIF into a global powerhouse. They’ve got stakes in everything from tech startups to luxury real estate. And guess what? A chunk of the PIF’s wealth comes straight from—you guessed it—oil. The fund owns a piece of Saudi Aramco, which alone is worth tens of billions of dollars. This money isn’t just sitting in a vault somewhere; it’s being used to invest in projects that stretch far beyond Saudi borders. It’s a way for the Al Saud family to extend their influence globally while keeping the cash rolling in.
Oil Reserves as a Backbone of Wealth
Here’s the thing about oil—it’s not just about what you’ve already sold; it’s about what’s still in the ground. Saudi Arabia is sitting on one of the largest proven oil reserves in the world. That’s like having a savings account that never runs out. These reserves are the backbone of the Al Saud family’s wealth. Even in a world that’s slowly shifting toward renewable energy, oil is still king for now. And as long as there’s demand, those reserves will continue to be a goldmine for the family. It’s not just about selling oil today; it’s about knowing they’ve got enough to sell for decades, if not centuries, to come. The Al Saud dynasty’s wealth isn’t just about what they have—it’s about the promise of what’s still to come.
Inside the Public Investment Fund (PIF)
MBS’s Control Over the PIF
The Public Investment Fund isn’t just any sovereign wealth fund; it’s like the crown jewel of Saudi Arabia’s financial empire. When Mohammed bin Salman took the reins, the PIF became his personal tool for reshaping the country’s economy. Before his rise, investment decisions were scattered across various ministries, each doing their own thing. But now, the PIF is the big boss, calling the shots both at home and abroad. It’s not just about money—it’s about power. MBS has centralized control, and with that, he’s made sure his vision for Saudi Arabia is front and center. Critics, though, have raised eyebrows about how much influence he has over the fund, with some saying it’s more about his ambitions than the public good.
Major Investments and Global Influence
Under MBS, the PIF has gone on a spending spree that’s turned heads worldwide. From pouring billions into U.S. tech startups through the SoftBank Vision Fund to snapping up stakes in high-profile companies, the PIF is everywhere. It’s not just about business—it’s about making Saudi Arabia a major player on the global stage. The fund has also dipped its toes into sports, entertainment, and even critical minerals. It’s wild to think that in just a few years, the PIF went from being a relatively small player to one of the world’s biggest spenders. But it’s not all smooth sailing; there’s been talk about whether these investments are sustainable in the long run or if they’re just flashy moves to grab attention.
Controversies Surrounding the PIF
Here’s the thing about the PIF—it’s not exactly known for being transparent. In fact, it’s been ranked as one of the least transparent sovereign wealth funds in the world. That’s a big deal when you’re talking about billions of dollars being moved around. Critics say there’s little accountability, and even international organizations like the IMF have struggled to get basic financial info from the fund. And let’s not forget the controversies around some of its investments. While some see the PIF as a force for economic transformation, others argue it’s being used to further MBS’s personal agenda. Either way, the PIF is a powerhouse, and it’s reshaping not just Saudi Arabia, but its place in the world too.
The Crown Prince’s Most Expensive Purchases
The $450 Million Salvator Mundi Painting
When it comes to jaw-dropping purchases, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has made headlines like no other. One of his most talked-about acquisitions is Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, Salvator Mundi. This isn’t just any painting; it’s a 500-year-old masterpiece, often called the “male Mona Lisa.” Back in 2017, MBS reportedly snagged it for a staggering $450 million. But here’s the kicker—he didn’t even buy it directly. He used a proxy to seal the deal, which only added to the mystery and drama surrounding the purchase. The painting’s whereabouts have been a topic of speculation ever since, with rumors suggesting it might be displayed on his lavish yacht or in a vault somewhere. Either way, this piece of art isn’t just a painting; it’s a symbol of the Crown Prince’s extravagant tastes and his ability to outbid anyone, anywhere.
The $300 Million Château Louis XIV
Next up, let’s talk about Château Louis XIV in France. Imagine a castle straight out of a fairy tale, but with modern-day luxuries that most of us can only dream of. MBS reportedly bought this stunning property for $300 million. The château isn’t just about its jaw-dropping architecture; it’s packed with features like indoor and outdoor pools, a wine cellar, a cinema, and even a moat with a transparent underwater room. Yes, you read that right—a moat you can actually hang out in. It’s the kind of place that screams “royalty,” and it fits perfectly into the Crown Prince’s portfolio of high-end assets. The purchase caused quite a stir, not just because of the price tag but also because it was another example of MBS’s flair for the extraordinary.
The $550 Million Superyacht Serene
And then there’s Serene, the superyacht that takes luxury to a whole new level. MBS reportedly bought this floating palace for a cool $550 million back in 2014. This isn’t your average yacht; it’s a massive, state-of-the-art vessel equipped with everything from swimming pools and a helicopter landing pad to a submarine and a snow room. Yes, a snow room—in case you want to cool off while cruising the Mediterranean. The yacht was originally owned by a Russian vodka tycoon, but MBS swooped in and made it his own. Serene isn’t just a yacht; it’s a statement, a floating emblem of the Crown Prince’s immense wealth and his penchant for living life on a grand scale. Whether it’s hosting high-profile guests or just enjoying some downtime, Serene is the epitome of opulence on the high seas.
Comparing the Wealth of MBS and King Salman
When it comes to wealth, the Al Saud family stands in a league of its own. But if you’re wondering about the financial rivalry between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and King Salman, the numbers paint an interesting picture. King Salman’s net worth is estimated at around $20 billion, while MBS reportedly edges past his father with an estimated $25 billion. That’s a staggering gap, but it’s worth noting that these figures are often debated and might not capture the full scope of their assets.
Now, if you’re curious about the Mohammed bin Salman net worth in Rupees, it’s an astronomical figure that translates to trillions. And as we look ahead, the Mohammed bin Salman net worth 2024 is only expected to grow, thanks to his control over Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the nation’s oil riches. Speaking of dollars, the Mohammed bin Salman net worth in dollars makes him one of the wealthiest individuals globally. But here’s the kicker—people often ask, “Is the Saudi prince richer than Elon Musk?” Well, while MBS’s wealth is immense, Musk’s fortune, driven by Tesla and SpaceX, often fluctuates but remains in a different category altogether.
The wealth of the Al Saud family, largely fueled by oil, is deeply intertwined. King Salman’s role as the head of the family and the ruler of Saudi Arabia gives him immense influence, but MBS’s control over strategic assets like the PIF has positioned him as a financial powerhouse. The dynamics of their wealth aren’t just about numbers—they reflect power, strategy, and a vision for the future of Saudi Arabia. Whether it’s palaces, yachts, or investments, both father and son symbolize the immense wealth of a dynasty that continues to shape global markets.
The Al Saud Family’s Global Influence
Real Estate Investments Across Continents
The Al Saud family’s reach goes far beyond the borders of Saudi Arabia, and one of the most obvious ways they’ve made their mark internationally is through real estate. From sprawling estates in Europe to luxury apartments in Manhattan, their property portfolio is massive. It’s not just about owning homes, though; the family has a knack for acquiring iconic properties. Think high-end hotels, historical landmarks, and even entire neighborhoods in some cases. These investments aren’t just trophies—they’re strategic moves that keep the family’s wealth diversified and growing. And let’s not forget, these properties often serve as meeting grounds for diplomacy or business, blending their personal and political worlds seamlessly.
Partnerships with Global Leaders
When it comes to influence, the Al Saud family knows how to play the long game. They’ve formed partnerships with some of the most powerful leaders and organizations around the world. Whether it’s through multi-billion-dollar deals or quiet, behind-the-scenes collaborations, these relationships are a cornerstone of their global strategy. The Crown Prince, in particular, has been a key figure in forging these alliances, often appearing at high-profile summits and events. These partnerships aren’t just about money—they’re about positioning Saudi Arabia, and by extension, the Al Saud family, as a central player on the global stage. From tech giants to political heavyweights, their network is as vast as it is influential.
Impact on International Markets
The Al Saud family’s financial decisions don’t just affect Saudi Arabia; they ripple across the globe. Whether it’s a significant investment through the Public Investment Fund or a major announcement from Saudi Aramco, markets pay attention. Their influence is particularly strong in the energy sector, given Saudi Arabia’s role as one of the world’s largest oil producers. But it doesn’t stop there. The family’s ventures into tech, entertainment, and even sports have made headlines, proving that their economic clout extends far beyond oil. This global footprint not only enhances their wealth but also cements their status as key players in international affairs.
The Role of Saudi Aramco in MBS’s Wealth
Market Capitalization and Global Standing
Saudi Aramco isn’t just another oil company—it’s a behemoth. With a market capitalization of around $1.8 trillion, it’s one of the most valuable companies in the world. For Saudi Arabia, and particularly for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Aramco is more than just a business; it’s a symbol of the kingdom’s global clout. The company’s scale and influence are staggering, and it plays a central role in shaping not only the Saudi economy but also MBS’s personal wealth strategy. Owning even a small slice of Aramco means holding a massive chunk of wealth, and the Crown Prince has ensured that the company remains a cornerstone of his financial empire.
PIF’s Stake in Saudi Aramco
Here’s where things get interesting. The Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is under MBS’s control, owns a 4% stake in Saudi Aramco. Now, 4% might not sound like much, but when the company is worth nearly two trillion dollars, that small percentage translates to a jaw-dropping $72 billion. This isn’t just about numbers, though. By transferring part of Aramco’s shares to the PIF, MBS effectively bolstered the fund’s assets, giving it more firepower for global investments. It’s like moving money from one pocket to another, but on a scale most of us can’t even fathom.
Revenue Streams from Oil Exports
Let’s not forget the oil itself. Saudi Aramco is the lifeblood of the kingdom’s economy, pumping out millions of barrels of oil every day. The revenue from these exports doesn’t just fill government coffers; it also indirectly supports MBS’s wealth. Whether it’s funding ambitious projects like NEOM or padding the reserves of the PIF, the money flowing from Aramco’s oil sales is a key pillar of the Crown Prince’s financial strategy. In a way, every drop of oil that leaves Saudi shores contributes to the vast web of wealth and influence that MBS commands.
The Controversial Reign of Muhammad bin Salman
Centralization of Power and Wealth
Muhammad bin Salman, or MBS as he’s often called, has built a reputation for consolidating power like no other leader in modern Saudi history. His rise wasn’t subtle—it was bold, fast, and, to many, unsettling. In just a few years, he moved from being relatively unknown to controlling nearly every major aspect of Saudi governance. He’s not just the crown prince; he’s the defense minister, the head of the Public Investment Fund, and the driving force behind Vision 2030. This centralization of power has made him a polarizing figure. On one hand, his supporters argue that Saudi Arabia needed a strong leader to push through reforms. On the other, critics say he’s sidelined anyone who could challenge him, even members of his own family. The infamous 2017 Ritz-Carlton incident, where hundreds of wealthy Saudis and royals were detained under the guise of an anti-corruption crackdown, is often cited as a glaring example of his methods. Some see it as a necessary move to root out corruption; others view it as a blatant power grab.
Human Rights Concerns and Criticism
When it comes to human rights, MBS’s record is, to put it mildly, controversial. He’s been praised for lifting the ban on women driving and for pushing for more social freedoms, but these moves are overshadowed by a darker side. The murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 is the most infamous example. The CIA concluded that MBS likely ordered the killing, a claim he denies but that has stuck to his name like glue. The Khashoggi case isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of a broader pattern. Critics, activists, and even ordinary Saudis who voice dissent often find themselves exiled, imprisoned, or worse. The climate of fear under MBS is palpable, and it’s led many to question whether the reforms are worth the cost. While Saudi Arabia under MBS is modernizing in some ways, it’s also becoming a place where criticism, even mild, can carry severe consequences.
Impact on Saudi Arabia’s Global Image
Globally, MBS has been a mixed bag for Saudi Arabia’s image. Initially, he was seen as a young, dynamic reformer who could transform the kingdom. His Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil, won him admirers around the world. But the shine wore off quickly after the Khashoggi murder and other controversies. Western leaders who once welcomed him with open arms have grown wary. The Biden administration, for example, has kept him at arm’s length, a stark contrast to the close relationship he enjoyed with the Trump administration. Still, MBS seems unfazed. He’s focused on forging new alliances, particularly with countries like China and Russia, while continuing to push his ambitious plans at home. Whether this strategy will pay off in the long term remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: MBS is reshaping Saudi Arabia’s role on the global stage, for better or worse.
The Economic Vision of MBS
NEOM and Other Mega Projects
Muhammad bin Salman, or MBS as he’s widely known, has a knack for dreaming big, and nowhere is that clearer than in NEOM. This isn’t just some futuristic city—it’s a whole new way of thinking about urban living. Picture this: a city with no cars, no streets, and powered entirely by renewable energy. It’s called “The Line,” and it’s just one part of NEOM, a $500 billion project that’s supposed to redefine what a modern city can be. But NEOM isn’t just about high-tech cities. It’s also about creating a hub for innovation, tourism, and sustainability. MBS wants NEOM to be a global magnet for talent and investment, and he’s pouring resources into making it happen. Whether it’ll live up to the hype? That’s the billion-dollar question.
Diversifying Saudi Arabia’s Economy
For decades, Saudi Arabia’s economy has been all about oil. But MBS has made it clear that this can’t go on forever. His Vision 2030 plan is all about shaking things up. He’s pushing for investments in non-oil sectors like tech, entertainment, and tourism. Remember when Saudi Arabia started hosting major concerts and sporting events? That’s part of the plan. By opening up the country and making it more appealing to global investors, MBS hopes to reduce Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil revenues. It’s a bold move, but it’s also a risky one. Transforming an oil-dependent economy isn’t easy, and there are plenty of skeptics out there.
Challenges in Achieving Vision 2030
Of course, no grand plan comes without its hurdles, and Vision 2030 is no exception. For starters, there’s the issue of funding. Projects like NEOM and other mega-developments cost a fortune, and not everyone is convinced they’ll pay off in the long run. Then there’s the challenge of changing people’s mindsets. Saudi Arabia is a conservative country, and not everyone is on board with the rapid changes MBS is pushing. Add to that the global scrutiny over human rights issues and the ups and downs of oil prices, and you’ve got a pretty uphill battle. Still, MBS seems determined to see his vision through, no matter what it takes.
The Al Saud Family’s Historical Wealth
Origins of the Al Saud Dynasty
The story of the Al Saud family goes way back, long before oil turned the desert into a goldmine. The family traces its roots to the 18th century when Muhammad bin Saud established the Emirate of Diriyah, often called the First Saudi State. This wasn’t just a political move; it was also tied to a religious alliance with Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab, whose teachings shaped the Wahhabi movement. Together, they started conquering territories, and soon enough, the Al Saud name became synonymous with power in the Arabian Peninsula. Even though they faced setbacks—like losing control during the Ottoman era—they kept bouncing back. By the time King Abdulaziz, also known as Ibn Saud, came into the picture in the early 20th century, the family was ready to reclaim its legacy. He captured Riyadh in 1902, laying the groundwork for what we now know as Saudi Arabia.
How Oil Changed the Family’s Fortune
Here’s where things get wild. In 1938, oil was discovered in Saudi Arabia, and it wasn’t just a small find—it was a jackpot. Suddenly, the Al Saud family had access to one of the most lucrative resources on the planet. This discovery turned the kingdom into a global powerhouse, and the family’s wealth skyrocketed. Fast forward to today, and the Al Saud family’s fortune is estimated at a staggering $1.4 trillion. That’s not just royal money; that’s “How much is the Al Saud family worth?” kind of money that makes headlines. It’s worth noting, though, that this wealth isn’t evenly spread. Out of the 15,000 or so family members, only about 2,000 hold significant power and wealth. The rest? Not so much.
The Evolution of Wealth Over Generations
With each generation, the Al Saud family has found new ways to expand its riches. Early on, it was all about land and alliances. Then came oil, which changed the game entirely. But now, the family is diversifying. Investments in tech, real estate, and even entertainment are becoming part of the portfolio. It’s a sharp contrast to the old days of tribal leadership and camel caravans. And while the Al Saud family’s wealth is jaw-dropping, they’re not the only royals with deep pockets. Ever wondered, “How much is the Al Sabah family worth?” They’re another powerhouse, though their fortune doesn’t quite reach the trillion-dollar mark like the Al Sauds. Still, it’s a reminder that royal wealth isn’t just about crowns and castles anymore; it’s about strategy and staying relevant in a changing world.
The Crown Prince’s Spending Habits
Luxury Purchases and Public Perception
When it comes to spending, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doesn’t hold back, and he’s pretty open about it. In an interview, he once said something along the lines of, “I’m rich, not Gandhi or Mandela,” and boy, does he live up to that. He’s famous for dropping jaw-dropping amounts of cash on things that most of us can only dream about. Think $450 million for a Leonardo da Vinci painting or $300 million on a French château that looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale. These purchases make headlines for their sheer extravagance, but they also spark debates. People wonder if all this luxury clashes with the image of a leader trying to modernize and reform a nation. Some see it as a sign of power and success, while others criticize it as tone-deaf in a country where economic inequality is still a thing.
Philanthropy and Social Investments
But it’s not all yachts and castles. MBS has also put money into projects that aim to make a difference. Through the Public Investment Fund and other channels, he’s supported initiatives that focus on education, healthcare, and even futuristic cities like NEOM. These are the kinds of things that could reshape Saudi Arabia’s future, and they’re a big part of his Vision 2030 plan. Still, critics argue that these investments are more about boosting his image than actually helping people. It’s a mixed bag, really. On one hand, you’ve got undeniable progress in some areas, but on the other, there’s skepticism about the true intentions behind these moves.
Balancing Wealth with Responsibility
Here’s the tricky part: balancing all that wealth with the responsibilities of leadership. MBS is in a unique position where his personal spending habits are under constant scrutiny. Every big-ticket purchase he makes gets dissected in the media, and there’s always someone questioning whether it’s appropriate. It’s a tough spot to be in, especially when you’re trying to juggle personal luxury with public accountability. Some say he’s setting a bad example, while others argue that his spending is his business. Either way, it’s clear that every dollar—or riyal—he spends carries a lot of weight, both at home and abroad.
The Future of Wealth in Saudi Arabia
MBS’s Plans for Economic Transformation
When you think about Saudi Arabia’s future, it’s impossible not to talk about MBS’s grand plans. He’s got this whole Vision 2030 thing going on, aiming to shake up the country’s economy. The idea is to move away from just relying on oil and to bring in other industries like tourism, tech, and entertainment. NEOM, that futuristic city project, is a big part of this. It’s like something out of a sci-fi movie—flying elevators and all. But the question is, can these ambitious projects really deliver? There’s a lot riding on them, and if they flop, it’s not just MBS who’ll feel the heat. It’s the whole country.
The Role of Younger Royals in Wealth Management
Here’s something interesting—there’s talk about how the younger generation of Saudi royals might play a role in managing the country’s wealth. MBS is obviously the big name, but he’s not doing this alone. The younger crowd seems to be more open to modern ideas, especially when it comes to investing and diversifying the economy. They’re looking at global markets, tech startups, and even sports. It’s like they’re trying to rebrand Saudi Arabia as more than just an oil powerhouse. But whether they’ll succeed or not, that’s still up in the air.
Sustainability of Oil-Driven Wealth
Let’s be real: oil is still the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s economy. But how long can that last? With the world slowly shifting towards renewable energy, there’s a ticking clock on how much longer oil can bring in the big bucks. MBS seems to know this, which is why he’s pushing so hard for economic diversification. But here’s the tricky part—building a whole new economy takes time, and time isn’t exactly on their side. If they can’t make these changes fast enough, they might find themselves in a tough spot down the road.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it—Mohammed bin Salman is not just a crown prince; he’s a guy with a jaw-dropping fortune and a lifestyle that most of us can’t even imagine. From owning a $450 million painting to a $550 million yacht, his wealth is as extravagant as it gets. But it’s not just about the flashy stuff; his control over Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and the country’s oil riches puts him in a league of his own. Love him or hate him, MBS is a name that’s reshaping Saudi Arabia and making waves globally. It’s a mix of power, money, and controversy that keeps the world watching.