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Billionaire Profile
Friede Springer
Global Rank
#971

Image: Michael Thaidigsmann | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Friede Springer

CEO, Publishing
Berlin, Germany
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.51B
Estimated based on Publishing stock value as of September 10, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
83
Source
Publishing
Industry
Media & Entertainment
Citizenship
Germany

Biography

Friede Springer is a prominent German publisher and media executive, known for her significant ownership of Axel Springer SE, a major European media company. Born in 1942, she is the widow of Axel Springer, who founded the publishing empire. Her career has been marked by her pivotal role in shaping the company's future, particularly after her husband's death, when she secured control through strategic acquisitions. With a net worth of $4.6 billion as of 2024, Friede Springer is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting various scientific, cultural, and educational initiatives.

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Data Updated
Sep 10, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$4.51B
2025$4.60B
2024$4.60B

Portfolio Holdings

Axel Springer SE

Axel Springer SE

SPRGn•media-entertainment
Ownership
22%
Stock Price
$56.025
Revenue
$4.00B
Berlin, Germany
16,000+ employees
Founded 1946

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Friede Springer (born Friede Riewerts on August 15, 1942) was born in Oldsum, Föhr, Germany. She began her career as a nanny for the Springer family in 1965. She married Axel Springer in 1978, becoming his fifth wife.

Rise to Success

After Axel Springer's death in 1985, Friede Springer inherited his shares and took on the role of managing the Axel Springer AG and sole executive manager of Springer Holding. She successfully navigated the company through challenges, including buying back shares and gaining control of the business. She was instrumental in transforming Axel Springer into an international multimedia and digital publishing house.

Key Business Strategies

Friede Springer played a crucial role in shaping the company's strategic direction, including overseeing the acquisition of media assets and adapting to digital transformation. She appointed Mathias Döpfner as the new CEO in 2002, who helped relaunch the company in the digital market.

Philanthropy

Friede Springer is actively involved in various charitable ventures, including the Friede Springer Foundation and the Friede Springer Heart Foundation, which support research and treatment in cardiovascular disease. She also supports the Voltaire Prize for Tolerance, International Understanding and Respect for Differences at the University of Potsdam.

Career Milestones

1965

Nanny for Axel Springer

Began working as a nanny for the Springer family.

1978

Married Axel Springer

Married Axel Springer, becoming his fifth wife.

1985

Inherited and managed Axel Springer AG

Inherited Axel Springer's shares and became manager of Axel Springer AG and sole executive manager of Springer Holding.

2002

Appointed Mathias Döpfner as CEO

Installed Mathias Döpfner as the new chairman of the board.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Science, Arts and Culture

Friede Springer Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports science, art, culture, and education.

Healthcare

Friede Springer Heart Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports research and treatment in cardiovascular disease.

Education

Voltaire Prize

Undisclosed

Funds the Voltaire Prize for Tolerance, International Understanding and Respect for Differences at the University of Potsdam.

Billionaires Connected to Friede Springer

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Richest in Germany

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Friede Springer's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Friede Springer's estimated net worth is $4.507 billion, ranking #971 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Friede Springer make their money?
Friede Springer's wealth primarily comes from Publishing, most notably through Publishing.
Where is Friede Springer from?
Friede Springer is from Germany.
How old is Friede Springer?
Friede Springer is 83 years old.

Sources & References

Citations for this profile have not been published yet. Net worth figures here are estimates and should not be treated as verified. See our methodology for how these estimates are produced, or report a correction.