King Charles III’s personal wealth, excluding the £15 billion value of the Crown Estate, is estimated at around £640 million. This amount, while significant, pales in comparison to the immense fortune of Thailand’s King Rama X.
Reportedly, King Rama X has utilized part of his £32 billion wealth to acquire 17,000 houses, 38 private jets, 300 cars, and 52 luxury boats. Also known as His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, he ascended to the throne in 2016 after the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, delaying his coronation to honor his father.
Upon becoming the 10th monarch of the Chakri dynasty, Rama inherited a legacy valued at $43 billion (approximately £32 billion), instantly making him the wealthiest monarch globally. His wealth surpasses that of King Charles by an estimated 50-fold.
Rama has reportedly managed his vast wealth wisely, making strategic investments in real estate and the telecommunications sector to further enhance his already substantial fortune. His property holdings include commercial buildings, luxury hotels, and historic palaces.
The king is also reputed to own a diverse collection of around 300 luxury vehicles, ranging from classic Rolls-Royces to modern supercars. His personal fleet of aircraft consists of 38 helicopters and fixed-wing planes, many of which are specially customized to meet his specific needs.
In line with Thai customs, he maintains a ceremonial fleet of 52 golden barges for traditional river processions, underscoring the monarchy’s deep cultural roots in the nation. Similar to the UK’s Crown Estate, Thailand has the Crown Property Bureau overseeing the royal family’s commercial interests, although Rama has been increasingly asserting personal control over the organization.
Some Thai citizens have challenged the king’s rule, advocating for democratic reforms, constitutional amendments, and the repeal of Thailand’s laws against insulting the monarch. Concerns have also been raised about the stark economic inequality in Thailand juxtaposed with the king’s immense wealth.
In 2019, Rama consolidated two army units under his direct authority, a move that some analysts see as a step towards an absolute monarchy. Observers note that while his father, Bhumibol, was discreet in political matters, Rama has actively positioned himself in the center of Thai politics, diminishing the influence of both the military and politicians.
For expedited access to the news you care about, designate Daily Mirror as a ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.