According to a recent 2025 ranking by Global Finance Magazine (GFMAG), Singapore is now the richest country in the world by GDP-PPP per capita, with a remarkable figure of US$156,755.35.
Also read: Singapore Ranked World’s Best Country for Attracting and Retaining Talent
What does being the “richest country” mean?
Image credit: Pixabay | Pexels
For travellers, this status reflects a few compelling realities. Top-tier infrastructure, world-class services, and a level of comfort, from accommodation to transport and dining, that’s hard to match.
Whether you’re wandering through sleek shopping districts like Orchard Road, marvelling at the futuristic skyline around Marina Bay, or just enjoying a seaside stroll, Singapore’s “wealth-status” tends to show in the city’s polished, cosmopolitan atmosphere and efficient urban planning.
But beyond the glitz, this ranking also highlights Singapore’s broader success as a global financial hub. It’s a magnet for business, innovation and cultural exchange, which makes it a dynamic travel destination where East meets West in style.
Top 10 richest countries globally
While Singapore leads the pack, the 2025 list by Global Finance includes a mix of small states, resource-rich countries, and economic powerhouses.
Image credit: Marina Zvada | Pexels
- Singapore — A gleaming city-state where cutting-edge modernity meets cosmopolitan charm.
- Luxembourg — Holds second place globally, not far behind Singapore. Known for its strong financial services sector, high wages and stable economy.
- Macao SAR — A former Portuguese enclave turned booming tourism and gambling hotspot. Its GDP-PPP per capita places it among the wealthiest worldwide.
- Ireland — Strong in technology, pharmaceuticals and services. Secured the 4ᵗʰ spot among the richest economies per person.
- Qatar — Its natural-gas wealth and small population push it to 5ᵗʰ place. This showcases how resource-driven economies can rank high in per-capita terms.
- Norway — A Northern-European welfare and resource-rich nation, offering high living standards and per capita wealth (6ᵗʰ globally).
- Switzerland — Long famed for its banking, innovation and stable economy. Switzerland maintains a strong position as one of the world’s richest nations per capita (7ᵗʰ).
- Brunei Darussalam — Another small, resource-rich country. Its oil and gas revenues place it among the global top-ten by per-person GDP (8ᵗʰ).
- Guyana — A newer entrant to the wealth charts, propelled by recent oil discoveries and rapid economic growth, landing at 9ᵗʰ globally.
- United States — The only large-population global power in the top 10. Its diverse industries support a per-capita GDP-PPP still high compared to most large economies (10ᵗʰ).
This list shows that there are different “recipes” for wealth. Some rely on finance and services, others on commodities, and some on a blend of industry, governance and innovation.
Also read: Best Spots to Catch the 2026 New Year Fireworks in Singapore
Global Prosperity at a Glance
Image credit: Pixabay | Pexels
So there you go, a list of the richest countries in the world in 2025. From Singapore’s polished cityscape to the natural riches of Luxembourg and beyond, each country offers its own blend of opportunity and cultural appeal. Whether you’re a traveller, investor, or simply curious observer, this year’s list is a reminder of how diverse prosperity can look across the globe.
