World’s Third Largest Economy: Impact of Top 500 Family Businesses
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World’s Third Largest Economy: Impact of Top 500 Family Businesses

Title: Global Impact of 500 Largest Family Businesses Revealed in 2025 EY and University of St.Gallen Global Index

The 2025 EY and University of St.Gallen Global 500 Family Business Index has uncovered the immense impact of the world’s 500 largest family businesses. These businesses generate a staggering US$8.8 trillion in revenues and employ over 25 million people worldwide across 43 jurisdictions. This index provides valuable insights into the significant role that family-owned enterprises play in driving global economic growth.

Key Findings from the Index:

– Nearly half of the top 500 family businesses have engaged in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities in the last two years, highlighting their strategic approach to growth and expansion.
– More than a third of these businesses have a legacy that extends beyond a century, showcasing their long-term vision and resilience.
– The top 500 family businesses represent a diverse range of industries, with retail leading the pack at 20% followed by consumer (19%), advanced manufacturing (15%), and mobility (9%).

The geographical distribution of these businesses is also noteworthy, with Europe being home to almost half of the companies on the index, followed by North America and Asia. Despite the challenges posed by the current business environment, these family businesses remain agile and innovative, with a significant percentage having been in operation for over a century.

The Ability to Adapt and Thrive:

Family-owned businesses have demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in dynamic environments. Their focus on long-term survival, efficiency, and conservative financing practices sets them up for continued success. The index highlights that these businesses are well-positioned to seize strategic opportunities and navigate slower-growth periods.

Looking Towards the Future:

As the global economy continues to evolve, family enterprises are at the forefront of shaping their future with confidence. Through a unique blend of long-term vision, resilience, and drive towards sustainable growth, these businesses are driving innovation and growth on a global scale. The 2025 EY and University of St.Gallen Global 500 Family Business Index provides valuable insights into the world’s largest family businesses and their impact on the global economy.

In conclusion, the 2025 EY and University of St.Gallen Global 500 Family Business Index sheds light on the significant contributions of family-owned enterprises to the global economy. With their focus on long-term value, strategic agility, and innovation, these businesses are poised to continue driving economic growth and shaping the future of business. For more information and insights from the index, visit ey.com/familyenterprise. The following content will be rewritten: