Samir Mane, the founder and president of BALFIN Group, has been recognized by Forbes as one of the world’s richest people, marking the first time an entrepreneur from the Western Balkans has achieved this distinction. His estimated net worth of $1.4 billion places him at 2,356th globally.

Forbes highlights Mane’s success, noting that he built his fortune through investments in shopping malls, electronics stores, and luxury real estate across the Balkans. His inclusion signifies the region’s growing economic strength and potential.

Mane’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1993 with the founding of BALFIN Group, which has since expanded into a major investment force with international operations in Austria, the USA, and Canada.

In North Macedonia, BALFIN Group’s presence is notable through several key companies: Neptun, a leading electronics and appliance retailer; East Gate Mall, a modern shopping and lifestyle center; and Skopje East Gate (SEG), a large-scale mixed-use development.

These ventures create jobs, introduce international standards, and contribute to the advancement of the Macedonian market.

Globally, Forbes reports a record number of over 3,000 billionaires with a total wealth of $16.1 trillion. The US, China, and India account for over half of this wealth, with Germany leading Europe in billionaire count.

Mane’s achievement serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that global success is attainable in the Balkans through vision, dedication, and belief in the region’s potential.