Bud Walton, born in 1921, began his career in the retail industry at a young age. He started working at J.C. Penney, a well-known department store, where he honed his skills in sales and management. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, and he was eventually promoted to store manager.

In 1962, Bud Walton took a leap of faith and partnered with his brother Sam to open their first Walmart store in Rogers, Arkansas. This marked the beginning of a retail revolution. The brothers’ innovative business strategies, such as offering low prices and a wide variety of products under one roof, quickly gained popularity among consumers. The success of this first store led to the rapid expansion of the Walmart chain, making Bud Walton a household name in the retail industry.

Bud Walton’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Bud Walton’s current net worth is approximately $6.5 billion, according to Forbes. This places him among the wealthiest individuals in the world.

Bud Walton’s Career

Bud Walton, born in 1944, is the son of Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart. He began his career at Walmart in 1962, working in various positions. In 1970, he co-founded the Walmart International division with his brother Jim. He served as its CEO until 1998 and then as chairman until 2005.

Other Ventures

Besides Walmart, Bud Walton has invested in various other businesses. He co-founded the Arvest Bank Group in 1961, which he still chairs today. He also has interests in real estate and ranching. Additionally, he serves on the boards of several companies, including J.B. Hunt Transport Services.

Assets

Walton’s assets include a significant stake in Walmart, making up a large portion of his net worth. He also owns numerous properties, including a ranch in Missouri and a home in Bentonville, Arkansas. His art collection, which includes works by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, is also valued at hundreds of millions of dollars.

Annual Income

While Bud Walton’s exact annual income is not publicly disclosed, it’s estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars. This is primarily from his stake in Walmart and his other business ventures. His income also includes dividends from his investments and other sources.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Bud Walton

Frequently Asked Questions: Bud Walton Net Worth

1. What is Bud Walton’s net worth?

Bud Walton’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 billion.

2. How did Bud Walton make his fortune?

Bud Walton, along with his brother Sam, co-founded Walmart in 1962. They turned it into the world’s largest retailer, which significantly contributed to his wealth.

3. Is Bud Walton the richest person in the world?

No, as of the latest estimates, Bud Walton is not the richest person in the world. He is one of the wealthiest, however.

4. What is the source of Bud Walton’s wealth?

The majority of Bud Walton’s wealth comes from his stake in Walmart. He also has investments in real estate and other businesses.

5. How does Bud Walton’s net worth compare to his brother Sam’s?

Bud Walton’s net worth is estimated to be slightly higher than his brother Sam’s, who has an estimated net worth of around $40 billion.

6. What is the Walton family’s total net worth?

The Walton family, including Bud and Sam, has a combined net worth of over $215 billion, making them one of the wealthiest families in the world.

7. How much of Walmart does Bud Walton own?

Bud Walton owned approximately 5% of Walmart’s stock at the time of his death. His family now controls around 50% of Walmart’s shares.

8. What is the Walton family’s involvement in Walmart today?

The Walton family, including Bud’s children, still plays a significant role in Walmart. They hold a majority of the company’s shares and several family members serve on the board of directors.

9. How has Bud Walton’s wealth impacted philanthropy?

The Walton family, including Bud and his wife, has been involved in various philanthropic efforts. They have donated to education, healthcare, and other causes through the Walton Family Foundation.

10. What is the Walton family’s political affiliation?

The Walton family, including Bud and his brother Sam, has been known to support Republican candidates and causes. However, their political leanings are not exclusively tied to one party.