8. Jack Ma

•  Net Worth: $7.1 B                                                                      
•  Source of Wealth: internet
•  Citizen: China
•  Age:49

Internet pioneer Jack Ma has aroused global interest in a pending public offering for Alibaba Group, the e-commerce powerhouse he created. Ma stepped down as CEO in May to pave the way for young blood but is still guiding the business. Speculation about the IPO moved to New york in September after the Hong Kong Stock Exchange turned down Alibaba's controversial ownership plan.