Inside America’s Richest Dynasty: How the Walton Family Rules Retail, Wealth, and Sports
When it comes to generational wealth, no family dominates quite like the Waltons—the heirs to the Walmart empire. With fortunes built on low prices and high volume, they are among the wealthiest families on the planet, quietly holding sway over American retail, banking, philanthropy, and even sports. But who does what in this multi-billion-dollar dynasty?
Who Are the Waltons?
The Walton family is the lineage of Sam Walton, who founded Walmart in 1962. From a single discount store in Arkansas, Walmart became the largest retailer in the world, and the wealth it generated made the Walton heirs some of the richest individuals alive.
Rob Walton
What Companies Does Jim Walton Own?
Jim Walton, Sam Walton’s youngest son, is the CEO and Chairman of Arvest Bank, a regional bank headquartered in Arkansas and one of the largest privately owned banks in the U.S. He owns a major stake in Arvest Bank Group, Inc., and continues to hold a significant share of Walmart stock through Walton Enterprises, the family’s investment and holding company.
Though not as public-facing as some of his siblings, Jim Walton manages massive wealth and influence, mainly in finance, retail, and real estate.
Related: Jim Walton: The Quiet Billionaire Powering America’s Largest Fortune
Related: Fashion's Billionaire Club: The Titans Who Turned Style into Fortunes
What Does Jim Walton Do With His Money?
Jim Walton
Jim Walton is notoriously private, but he’s a major player in the family’s philanthropic foundation—the Walton Family Foundation, which donates hundreds of millions annually to causes including education reform, environmental conservation, and economic development.
He also channels wealth through Walton Enterprises, which handles family investments, including stakes in Walmart, Arvest Bank, and other assets. While not flashy, Jim’s financial moves help quietly preserve and grow the Walton legacy.
Related: Phil Knight: The Visionary Who Built Nike Into a Global Icon
Who Is the Richest Walton Heir?
As of 2025, the richest Walton heir is Rob Walton, with a net worth estimated at $70+ billion. He was Walmart’s Chairman for over 20 years and holds a massive share of Walmart stock, along with other diversified assets.
That said, Jim Walton and Alice Walton also sit comfortably among the top 20 richest people in the world, each with net worths exceeding $60 billion.
Alice Walton
Which Walton Owns a Football Team?
In a bold move into the world of sports, Rob Walton led a group that purchased the Denver Broncos NFL team in 2022 for $4.65 billion, making it one of the most expensive franchise sales in sports history. The purchase was made by the Walton-Penner family ownership group, which includes Rob’s daughter Carrie Walton Penner and her husband Greg Penner, who is also the current Chairman of Walmart.
This venture marked the Waltons’ entry into professional sports ownership, adding yet another powerhouse industry to their empire.
Conclusion
The Walton family has mastered the art of maintaining and multiplying generational wealth. More than 60 years after the first Walmart store opened its doors, they remain one of the richest and most powerful families in the world.
