Who Rules The World 2023

As a chief executive of the most dominant global nation, Joe Biden maintains his position as the highest-ranked person in the Index. Due to his longevity in the White House and vast experience serving as a US Senate representative, vice president under Barack Obama and current US president, Biden’s approval ratings remain sky-high. He continues to tackle some of the USA’s biggest challenges such as climate change, health care reform and post-Covid economic recovery. Factors such as USA having world’s highest nominal GDP and Biden generating huge search results compared to the rest of his political colleagues earned him the #1 spot in WRTW 2023.

Leader of China’s only political party - the Chinese Communist Party - and President of the People’s Republic of China landed at number #2 in this year’s Index. By representing the Chinese political system which focuses on centralised control, political stability and anti-corruption campaigns that garnered soaring popularity, Xi cemented his hold on power sweeping into his third term as Chinese president. Jinping also launched initiatives aimed at promoting domestic growth, infrastructure and economic development. President Jinping presides over the world’s second largest economy and a population of 1.4 billion people.

Li Qiang is a prominent Chinese politician. He has held key positions within the Communist Party of China (CPC) and government, including serving as the Secretary of the CPC Shanghai Municipal Committee. Known for his pragmatism and efficiency, Li Qiang has focused on economic development, innovation, and improving people's livelihoods. He has contributed to national policies and represented China internationally. With his dedication and influential role, Li Qiang has become a respected figure in Chinese politics. A newcomer to the Index, Li Qiang took the third spot overall based on his high political rankings, but also China’s GDP and population of just over 1.4 billion.

As one of most dominant tech players in the world today, computer scientist and business giant Larry Page has helped transform Google from a search engine company to a conglomerate that provides innovative services that go beyond search. He has influenced and shaped the tech industry stressing user-centric products and data-driven decision-making. He has also been honoured with accolades such as being one of Time’s Most Influential People, multiple times.

 This year he secured a fourth spot in the WRTW Index owing to his personal net worth of around 100 billion USD and world’s biggest tech network with over 6 billion active users.

Widely regarded as one of the most prominent figures in the tech world, as the CEO of Apple Tim Cook has overseen the continued growth of one of the most successful companies today. A strong advocate and activist on social issues, his influence extends beyond the tech industry. With a personal net worth of over 1 billion USD and Apple having over 1.8 billion active users and customers and a net worth of a staggering 2.8 billion USD,, it’s safe to say that Cook has earned his spot in the top 10.