Small European nation with fewer than 700,000 residents ranked as the richest in the world
- Our Hidden Earth
- Oct 14
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 27
When you think about the richest countries in the world, your mind might jump straight to big nations like the United States.
It’s easy to assume that wealth and global power go hand in hand, and that a superpower must also be the wealthiest.
But the real leader is actually a small European country with only 650,000 residents!
Luxembourg, often called the financial capital of the world, has topped the list of the richest nations according to Global Finance.
With a GDP per capita of $143,743 (£109,820), Luxembourg is more than twice as wealthy as the UK, which currently has a GDP per capita of £58,880.
This tiny nation, bordered by Germany, France and Belgium, is well known for its strong banking sector and business-friendly environment.
Home to more than 150 banks, Luxembourg has become a magnet for international investors and a trusted base for financial institutions from around the globe.
Its economy is also supported by thriving industries in tourism, technology and logistics.
The country still has a strong steel sector too, providing many jobs for the local community.
In 2023, Luxembourg earned around $31.6 million (£24.1 million) from exports, with key products including iron, cars, machinery, gas turbines and industrial plastics.
According to Global Finance, Luxembourg’s impressive wealth allows it to offer residents some of the highest living standards in Europe, with excellent healthcare, housing and education systems.
Luxembourg isn’t the only small but rich nation on the list, Singapore, San Marino and Switzerland also made the top ten. The UK, however, didn’t make it into the top 20, coming in at number 31.
Discover more hidden gems with our interactive map!
Did you know we have a Hidden Gem Finder on our website? This handy little map shows over 12,000 hidden gems across the entire world with their exact co-ordinates available to view on Google Maps as well as an image/description for each one!
Comments