Singapore's 40 richest

July 29, 2010 Singapore's GDP, which increased by 16 per cent in the first quarter, is forecast to increase another 13 to 15 per cent this year. The StraitsTimes Index has also risen this year. With this impressive economy, the fortunes of Singapore's richest has also seen a resurgence, with their total net worth of US$45.7 billion up from last year's $39 billion. According to a list compiled by Forbes Asia, 26 on last year's list increased their wealth, including hotel tycoon and Malaysian Citizen Ong Beng Seng and his wife Christina Ong.Together, they are worth a billion for the first time from their hotel and retail empire. New to the list is New Zealand born social entrepreneur Richard Chandler, who debuts at no. 5 with US$3.4 billion. Only seven on the list have seen their fortune decrease from last year,including real estate tycoon Zhong Sheng Jian, whose net worth of US$1.8 billion was 10 per cent less than last year's. Forbes calculated the public fortunes using share prices and exchange rates as of July 14. It estimated the worth of privately held assets should they go public. Unlike its world listing of billionaires, this includes numerous family fortunes shared by individuals with their family, including children or grandchildren, as well as siblings. Fortune held by extended family, such as the Kwek cousins, were split into separate entries. » Singapore's 40 richest in 2009 » A look back: Singapore's 40 richest in 2008