Shari Arison

Israel's richest woman inherited two of the country's largest companies: $75 billion (assets) Bank Hapoalim, and infrastructure behemoth Housing & Construction. Stake in Carnival Cruise increased 10% in value over last 12 months. Also owns Miya, a $100 million venture dedicated to reducing leaks in underground water pipes. Eccentric heiress published book outlining philosophy of connecting business more » In September 2017, Arison signed a non-binding agreement to sell 49 percent of her investment and philanthropy arm, Arison Holdings 1998 Ltd., to unidentified North America-based institutional investors and an investment firm, according to a Tel Aviv Stock Exchange filing. The holding company owns just over 20 percent of Hapoalim. The total value of the sale wasn’t disclosed. Arison, now 60, inherited stakes in Hapoalim and Shikun & Binui in 1999, when her father, Ted Arison, died. With a net worth of $7 billion, she is the second-wealthiest person in Israel, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Arison has been trying for years to sell down her controlling stake in Hapoalim. That she ultimately agreed to sell a significant piece of her holding company indicates investors needed more than just a large stake in Hapoalim to clinch a deal, Slater said. The agreement also gives the buyers rights to name directors to the boards at Arison Holdings and Hapoalim.