In the world, not merely wealth secures the title of the most influential figures.
In a world news-shaped world interconnected by technology and politics, a handful of influential figures are white-washing the course of our future. Here's a look at some of the key players who are making a significant impact across the globe.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, sets the policy agenda and moulds EU policy. Her influence spans climate news goals, digital regulation, and global trade, and she has maintained contact with various countries to influence EU policy and regional relations.
Jerome Powell, Chair of the Federal Reserve, arguably holds more sway over global finance than any Wall Street CEO. By setting interest rates and steering monetary policy, he has a profound impact on economies worldwide.
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, controls one of the most valuable companies in history. Under his leadership, Apple shapes how billions communicate, learn, and entertain themselves.
In the Middle East, Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, leads the world's largest oil exporter, and his investments through the Public Investment Fund give him significant power.
Bill Gates, co-founder and philanthropist, remains one of the most influential people in science, public health, and climate news solutions. Through the Gates Foundation, he channels billions into solving global challenges, demonstrating that power doesn't have to come from office.
Biden, President of the United States, leads the largest economy and commands a vast military and intelligence apparatus. His decisions ripple across continents in areas such as climate policy, NATO strategy, and tech regulation.
Elon Musk, the richest person in the world, runs Tesla, SpaceX, and is the executive chair of X (formerly Twitter). His sway over public opinion, cryptocurrencies, and electric vehicles puts him at the core of the business world.
Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, President of the People's Republic of China, and head of one of the world's largest military forces, drives China's economic and geopolitical rise. His policies affect trade, tech, and pop culture worldwide.
Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, heads a nuclear-armed state with a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council. Despite economic sanctions, Putin's decisions, such as the war in Ukraine, can destabilize entire regions.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, a democracy with over 1.4 billion people, controls policy in a fast-growing economic and military superpower.
These individuals, each in their own right, are shaping the world news we live in, leaving a lasting impact on our lives and the future of our planet.
