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Billionaire Profile
Lorinc Meszaros
Global Rank
#1015

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Lorinc Meszaros

CEO, Opus Global Nyrt
HU
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.1B
As of December 2025
Age
59
Source
Diversified
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
HU

Biography

Lőrinc Mészáros, born in 1966, is a prominent Hungarian businessman and former politician, currently holding the top position as the richest person in Hungary. His net worth, estimated at $5.1 billion as of late 2024, stems from diversified investments across various sectors, including construction, energy, media, and agriculture. Rising to prominence since 2010, Mészáros served as the mayor of Felcsút from 2011 to 2018, and his career reflects a blend of business acumen and political connections. He has been recognized as the top richest person in Hungary. His rapid expansion into various sectors, including significant media entities and the acquisition of Hungary's second-largest power plant, showcases his strategic approach to wealth accumulation and influence.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career

Lőrinc Mészáros was born on February 24, 1966, in Székesfehérvár, Hungary. He began his career in the early 1990s as a gas-fitter in his hometown of Felcsút. He established a small construction company, which initially thrived, securing important contracts in nearby settlements. The company faced challenges in the mid-2000s, with fewer orders and financial losses.

Rise to Success

Mészáros's career took a significant turn after 2010. His wealth grew rapidly, supported by his close relationship with Viktor Orbán. By 2013, he was the 88th richest Hungarian, and his wealth continued to increase. His companies won significant public procurements, particularly after becoming the mayor of Felcsút in 2011. He served as the mayor of Felcsút from 2011 to 2018.

Key Business Strategies

Mészáros diversified his business interests significantly. He invested in construction, energy, media, agriculture, and tourism. He acquired media outlets, including newspapers, radio stations, and television channels. Furthermore, he expanded his reach through strategic acquisitions, including Hungary's second-largest power plant and significant media entities. In 2017, his wealth reached HUF 120 billion, making him the 5th wealthiest Hungarian.

Philanthropy

Mészáros established the Mészáros Foundation to support various charitable causes.

Career Milestones

1990

Founded a small gas-fitting company

Established a small enterprise in Felcsút specializing in gas fitting, focusing on the installation and connection of household gas networks.

2001

Founded Mészáros & Mészáros Kft.

Founded Mészáros & Mészáros Kft., expanding into construction and technology.

2011

Mayor of Felcsút

Served as the mayor of Felcsút, which saw fast development with state and EU funded projects.

2017

Forbes Hungary's Businessman of the Year

Awarded for business achievements.

2018

Retired as Mayor of Felcsút

Resigned from the mayoralty to focus on economic interests.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Charity

Mészáros Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports various charitable causes.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"That I have been able to come so far, God, luck and the person of Viktor Orbán have certainly played a role."

Leadership Principles

Strategic Diversification

Expanding investments across various sectors to mitigate risks and seize opportunities.

Leveraging Political Connections

Utilizing relationships with key political figures to facilitate business growth and secure contracts.

Focus on Key Industries

Concentrating efforts on sectors critical to national economy, such as energy, construction, and media.

Controversies & Challenges

2010s

Allegations of Cronyism

Accusations of corruption, lack of transparency, and monopolistic practices linked to his business dealings and the role of political connections.

Ongoing

Source of Wealth Questions

Investigative journalists have raised questions about the fairness of his business dealings and the sources of his wealth.