Billionaire Profile
R
Global Rank
#12

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Rob Walton & family

CEO, Walmart
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$136.685B
Estimated based on Walmart stock value as of January 26, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
81
Source
Walmart
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Samuel Robson "Rob" Walton is an American billionaire and heir to the Walmart fortune. Born in 1944, he served as the Chairman of Walmart from 1992 to 2015. With a net worth estimated at $130.1 billion as of December 2025, Rob Walton is a significant figure in the retail industry. His career began as a lawyer for Walmart before ascending to leadership positions. He played a key role in Walmart's international expansion and has been involved in extensive philanthropic efforts, primarily through the Walton Family Foundation. Rob's legacy includes his contributions to Walmart's growth and his commitment to various charitable causes, shaping both the corporate and philanthropic landscapes.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 1/26/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Rob Walton was born on October 27, 1944, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is the eldest son of Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart, and Helen Walton. He attended The College of Wooster and graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. He later received his Juris Doctor degree from Columbia Law School in 1969.

Rise to Success

Rob Walton's career began as a lawyer for the firm Conner & Winters, which represented Walmart. In 1978, he joined Walmart as a senior vice president, and in 1982, he was appointed vice chairman. Following his father's death in 1992, Rob became chairman of the board of directors, a position he held until 2015. During his tenure, he oversaw Walmart's significant expansion and adaptation to the digital era.

Key Business Strategies

Rob Walton played a crucial role in Walmart's international expansion, leading the company into new markets such as Mexico, Canada, China, and the United Kingdom. He focused on optimizing supply chain management and inventory control, ensuring Walmart could offer low prices while maintaining profitability.

Philanthropy

Rob Walton and his family have made substantial contributions to various causes, including education, environmental conservation, and healthcare. The Walton Family Foundation, established by the Walton family, has donated billions of dollars to support initiatives aimed at improving communities and creating sustainable solutions.

Career Milestones

1969

Juris Doctor Degree

Graduated from Columbia Law School.

1978

Senior Vice President at Walmart

Joined Walmart as a senior vice president.

1982

Vice Chairman of Walmart

Appointed as Vice Chairman of Walmart.

1992

Chairman of Walmart

Became chairman of the board of directors after his father's death.

2015

Retired as Chairman of Walmart

Stepped down as Chairman of Walmart.

2022

Denver Broncos Acquisition

Led a group to purchase the Denver Broncos NFL team.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education, Environment, Community Development

Walton Family Foundation

$XB

Supports education, environmental conservation, and community development initiatives.

Latest News & Analysis

The Dynasty's Dilemma: Navigating the Walmart Legacy in a Shifting Economic Landscape
Analysis12/11/2025

The Dynasty's Dilemma: Navigating the Walmart Legacy in a Shifting Economic Landscape

The Walton family, custodians of the colossal Walmart fortune, face unprecedented challenges as they navigate a volatile market and evolving consumer demands. This report dissects their strategic maneuvers, investments, and philanthropic endeavors, revealing the intricate web of power and influence shaping their legacy. We uncover the pressures and opportunities facing Rob Walton and his family, offering a glimpse into their long-term vision.

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Billion-Dollar Secrets & Boardroom Battles: What the Walton Family *Really* Does With Their Walmart Fortune
Analysis10/19/2025

Billion-Dollar Secrets & Boardroom Battles: What the Walton Family *Really* Does With Their Walmart Fortune

They control more wealth than entire nations, but how do the Walmart heirs actually spend their billions? We dive deep into the Walton family empire, uncovering the power plays and future investments shaping their dynasty.

Read Story
Billionaire's Gambit: Rob Walton's ASU Power Play - Did Walmart's Ex-Chairman Just Rewrite the Education Game?
Analysis9/24/2025

Billionaire's Gambit: Rob Walton's ASU Power Play - Did Walmart's Ex-Chairman Just Rewrite the Education Game?

Former Walmart titan, Rob Walton, has dropped a staggering $115 million on Arizona State University, creating a new school with a legacy-defining donation. This isn't just philanthropy; it's a strategic move that could reshape the future of business education, and the Walton family's influence, forever.

Read Story
Analysis9/22/2025

Billionaire's Gambit: Rob Walton's $115M ASU Gift Reshapes the Future of Conservation – But Why Now?

Rob Walton, the man who built Walmart's empire, just dropped a mind-blowing $115 million on Arizona State University. This unprecedented donation isn't just a gift; it's a calculated move to shape the future of conservation, and whispers of its implications are already rippling through the corridors of power.

Read Story