King Charles III’s personal wealth, excluding the Crown Estate valued at £15 billion, is estimated to be around £640 million. This amount, though considerable, is dwarfed by the immense fortune of Thailand’s King Rama X.
Reportedly, King Rama X, also known as His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, has utilized part of his £32 billion wealth to acquire 17,000 houses, 38 private jets, 300 cars, and 52 luxury boats. Upon ascending the throne in 2016, following King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s passing, Rama inherited a legacy worth $43 billion (£32 billion), instantly becoming the wealthiest monarch globally, surpassing King Charles by approximately 50 times.
King Rama has strategically managed his vast wealth by investing in real estate and the telecommunications sector, significantly increasing his already substantial fortune. His property holdings include commercial properties, luxury hotels, and historic palaces.
Additionally, it is believed that King Rama possesses a collection of around 300 luxury vehicles, ranging from classic Rolls-Royces to modern supercars. His fleet of 38 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, tailored to his specific needs, form his personal “air force.” Following Thai traditions, he maintains a ceremonial fleet of 52 golden barges for cultural processions symbolizing the monarchy’s strong ties to the nation.
Similar to the UK’s Crown Estate, Thailand has the Crown Property Bureau managing the royal family’s commercial interests, with King Rama increasingly asserting personal control over the bureau. Some Thai citizens have called for democratic reforms, constitutional amendments, and the repeal of lèse-majesté laws, which prohibit criticism of the monarch.
Questions have arisen regarding the disparity between King Rama’s vast wealth and Thailand’s significant economic inequality. In 2019, the king brought two army units under his direct command, a move seen by some as a step towards an absolute monarchy.
Analysts have observed that unlike his father, King Bhumibol, who maintained a low profile in politics, King Rama has actively engaged in political matters, diminishing the influence of both the military and politicians in Thailand.