Just how rich are Arab rulers?

Just how rich are Arab rulers?

It’s no secret that Gulf autocrats control serious cheddar. A (paywalled) report out this month attempts to estimate quite how much. 

Totting up the available numbers, Global SWF reckon the Gulf Cooperation Council’s ruling families control around $6.8 trillion of assets. That’s two whole Apples!

What do these funds even do with $6.8 trillion? It turns out, at least four things. 

First, they diversify their economies beyond the expected life of the reservoir of hydrocarbons upon which the region floats. 

Second, they project soft power internationally. Think football, golf, media, universities, maybe even the capture of international professional elites through butlering gigs. 

Third, buy garish bling and stroke rulers’ giant egos.

Lastly, they own pretty much everything in touching distance. According to the report, Gulf SWFs own every one of their national champions across every major industry.