Canada's richest people are a diverse group that shapes major industries, from media and tech to food and real estate. These influential figures are not just known for their wealth, but they are celebrated for the power, reach, and innovation they bring to their respective fields.

Can you guess who tops the wealth charts in Canada in 2024, how they got there, and why they remain so influential? Here is a closer look:

The Thomson Family ($98.15 Billion)

First up: The Thomson family leads the list of Canada's richest people with an astounding net worth of $98.15 billion. The family’s wealth stems from a media empire that began with newspapers and transformed into a global information powerhouse.

Their primary company, Thomson Reuters, is renowned for providing essential financial and legal data worldwide, making it a backbone for major industries.

Finance Post / With a staggering net worth of $98.15B, The Thompson family is THE richest family in Canada.

Despite changing media landscapes, the Thomson family has managed to keep their fortune and influence growing. Thus, by focusing on timely information distribution, they have remained essential in a fast-moving world.

Changpeng Zhao ($61.02 Billion)

Popularly known as "CZ," Changpeng Zhao is Canada’s cryptocurrency kingpin, holding a net worth of $61.02 billion. As the founder and CEO of Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, CZ has led the charge in digital currency innovation. So, his journey from tech enthusiast to billionaire is as bold as it is impressive.

Zhao's wealth soared as cryptocurrency became more mainstream, with Binance at the forefront of this movement. Though digital assets face constant scrutiny, CZ’s success highlights his ability to navigate both regulatory challenges and market fluctuations.

Galen Weston Jr. ($18.05 Billion)

Galen Weston Jr. has carved out his place among Canada’s wealthiest, thanks to his stronghold in groceries and real estate. With a fortune of $18.05 billion, he heads Loblaw Companies and George Weston Ltd. and controls a vast network of grocery stores, pharmacies, and real estate assets across Canada.

However, the Weston empire includes popular brands like Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, and No Frills, making Weston a household name in Canada.

Beyond just selling groceries, Weston has expanded his reach into healthcare and retail services, ensuring that his companies stay relevant in a competitive market. Thus, his ability to adapt to consumer needs has not only preserved but increased his family’s wealth.

The Irving Family

Forbes / The Irvings’ wealth is rooted in industries essential to everyday life, providing resources and employment that keep communities thriving.

The Irving family is another powerhouse on Canada’s richest people list, with a net worth of $14.47 billion. This family empire was built in the rugged industries of forestry, oil, and construction. The family’s reach is concentrated in New Brunswick, where they control a vast array of businesses under the Irving Group of Companies, a cornerstone of Canada’s East Coast economy.

While some wealthy families gravitate towards tech and finance, the Irvings are firmly rooted in physical industries. In 2024, they stand as a reminder of the wealth and power that still resides in natural resources.

The McCain Family ($13.16 Billion)

Finally, the McCain family has a $13.16 billion fortune, primarily built from frozen French fries and other processed foods. You bet! They are one of Canada's richest people. As founders of McCain Foods, they are responsible for producing one-third of the world’s frozen fries. This family-run business has become a global giant in the food processing industry.

However, what makes the McCain family unique is their ability to grow a family business into a global name while staying true to their roots in New Brunswick. McCain Foods’ success lies in its adaptability, expansion into new markets, and added value with each product.