Patrice Motsepe nears $4B as 2026 brings fresh gains

Building on a strong 2025, South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe has started 2026 with further growth in his fortune, bringing him close to the $4 billion mark. Last year, Motsepe’s net worth jumped by $700 million, cementing his position among Africa’s richest individuals.

According to Forbes, Motsepe, founder and chairman of African Rainbow Minerals (ARM), has seen his wealth rise by $200 million since January 1, increasing from $3.7 billion to $3.9 billion. The increase positions him just behind Koos Bekker as South Africa’s fourth-richest person.

ARM, Harmony Gold boost net worth

The boost follows a year in which his net worth grew from $3 billion at the start of 2025 to $3.7 billion by year-end. The increase is linked to his holdings in ARM, where he owns a 45.9 percent stake, and his indirect interest in Harmony Gold, South Africa’s largest gold producer.

Through ARM, Motsepe holds an 11.8 percent indirect stake in Harmony Gold, a position he has maintained since Harmony’s merger with Avmin in 2003. Harmony’s recent moves to diversify beyond gold have attracted investor attention, further lifting the value of Motsepe’s exposure.

ARM shares have climbed 7 percent year-to-date, increasing its market cap on the JSE to R44.3 billion, thus valuing Motsepe’s stake at R20.34 billion ($1.1 billion). Meanwhile, Harmony Gold shares have risen 11 percent on the JSE, lifting its market cap to R237.2 billion and increasing Motsepe’s indirect stake value to R28 billion ($1.5 billion).

Motsepe expands beyond mining assets

Motsepe’s growth extends beyond mining. Through his investment firm, African Rainbow Capital (ARC), he has expanded into financial services, technology, and renewable energy. One of his notable ventures, Tyme Group—a digital banking platform headquartered in Singapore with operations in Africa and Southeast Asia—has further contributed to his wealth.

Billionaires.Africa reported in 2025 that Motsepe’s 40 percent indirect stake in Tyme is valued at about $600 million, following the company’s $250 million Series D funding round in December 2024 that raised Tyme’s valuation to $1.5 billion.

As Motsepe continues to diversify his holdings while maintaining strong positions in core mining assets, his wealth trajectory reflects a calculated approach to both growth and long-term investment, keeping him at the forefront of South Africa’s billionaire ranks.