Billionaire Profile
Nancy Walton Laurie
Global Rank
#131

Image: Various | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Nancy Walton Laurie

CEO, Walmart
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$19.348B
Estimated based on Walmart stock value as of March 6, 2026
-3.2% (24h)
Age
74
Source
Walmart
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Nancy Walton Laurie is an American billionaire heiress and philanthropist. Born on May 15, 1951, she is the younger daughter of James "Bud" Walton, co-founder of Walmart. Her estimated net worth of $18.8 billion stems primarily from her inheritance of Walmart shares. Laurie has been involved in business ventures and is known for her philanthropic activities. She founded the Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet in New York City and owns the Columbia Performing Arts Centre in Missouri. Her wealth is a result of her stake in Walmart, reflecting the company's consistent performance. Laurie resides in Henderson, Nevada. She is also actively involved in philanthropy, funding various causes.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Nancy Walton Laurie was born on May 15, 1951, in Versailles, Missouri. She is the younger daughter of James "Bud" Walton, who co-founded Walmart with his brother Sam Walton in 1962. She grew up in Versailles, Missouri, where she met her future husband, Bill Laurie.

Rise to Success

Nancy and her sister, Ann Walton Kroenke, inherited a substantial stake in Walmart following their father's death in 1995, which significantly increased their wealth. Laurie's primary source of income has been the dividends and appreciation of her Walmart shares. Walmart's consistent performance and expansion have led to substantial financial returns for its shareholders. She has focused on philanthropic endeavors and personal investments.

Key Business Strategies

Nancy Walton Laurie does not hold executive positions at Walmart. Her wealth is primarily from inherited Walmart shares.

Philanthropy

Laurie is actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in education, healthcare, and community development. She founded the Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet in New York City and owns the Columbia Performing Arts Centre in Columbia, Missouri.

Career Milestones

1995

Inherited Walmart Shares

Inherited a significant stake in Walmart after her father's death, becoming a billionaire.

1998

Founded Columbia Performing Arts Centre

Established a performing arts school in Columbia, Missouri.

1999

Co-owned St. Louis Blues

Co-owned the St. Louis Blues hockey team with her husband Bill Laurie until 2006.

2015

Closed Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet

Closed the dance company in New York City.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

University of Missouri Donation

$25M

Donated to construct a new sports arena.

Healthcare

Supports Cancer Research

Unknown

Supports cancer research and shelters.

Community Development

Supports Various Charities

Unknown

Supports education, healthcare, and community development.

Controversies & Challenges

2004

Paige Laurie Scandal

Daughter Paige Laurie was involved in a scandal involving paying a roommate to do homework at USC; the arena naming rights at the University of Missouri were removed.

2023

Kaos Yacht Protest

Her superyacht 'Kaos' was defaced by climate activists in Ibiza.

2025

High Water Usage at Bel-Air Estate

Concerns were raised about her high water usage in Bel-Air compared to average households.