Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister and a prominent figure in UK politics, has garnered significant public interest not only for his political career but also for his family’s wealth. A key focus of this interest is his wife, Akshata Murthy, whose substantial net worth has often made headlines. In this article, we will delve into Akshata Murthy’s net worth, her background, and how her wealth impacts the perception of Rishi Sunak’s political standing.
Who is Akshata Murthy?
Akshata Murthy is the daughter of Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of Infosys, an Indian multinational corporation that provides business consulting, information technology, and outsourcing services. Born in 1980, Akshata has a rich educational background, including a degree in Economics and French from Claremont McKenna College in California, a diploma in Fashion Design from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, and an MBA from Stanford University, where she met Rishi Sunak.
Akshata Murthy’s Business Ventures
Murthy has carved out her niche in the business world, independent of her father’s legacy. She founded Akshata Designs, a fashion label specializing in luxury clothing, although it faced challenges and eventually closed. She also holds a significant stake in Infosys, which is a major contributor to her wealth. Additionally, Akshata and Rishi have invested in various companies and ventures through Catamaran Ventures UK, an investment firm they co-founded. This firm focuses on nurturing and investing in tech start-ups and other innovative businesses.
The Net Worth of Akshata Murthy
Akshata Murthy’s net worth is substantial, primarily due to her stake in Infosys. As of the latest estimates, her net worth is approximately £500 million (around $650 million). This figure fluctuates with the stock market and the performance of Infosys, but it firmly places her among the wealthiest individuals in the UK.
Infosys Shares and Dividends
A significant portion of Akshata’s wealth comes from her shares in Infosys. She owns a 0.93% stake in the company, which, given Infosys’s market capitalization, translates to a considerable sum. Moreover, Infosys pays regular dividends to its shareholders, providing Akshata with a steady income stream. For instance, in the financial year 2023, Infosys declared a total dividend of ₹31 per share, contributing significantly to Akshata’s income.
Properties and Real Estate Investments
The Sunak-Murthy family owns several properties across the UK and the US. Their primary residence is a five-bedroom townhouse in Kensington, London, valued at around £7 million. They also own a sprawling estate in North Yorkshire, purchased for £1.5 million, and a Santa Monica penthouse in California. These properties further augment the family’s wealth and reflect their affluent lifestyle.
Philanthropy and Social Contributions
Despite her immense wealth, Akshata Murthy is known for her philanthropic endeavors. The Murthy family has a long-standing tradition of giving back to society, with Narayana Murthy being a well-known philanthropist in India. Akshata and Rishi have continued this legacy, supporting various charitable causes through donations and active involvement in community service. Their contributions range from supporting education and healthcare initiatives to funding start-ups with a social impact.
Public Perception and Political Implications
The wealth of Akshata Murthy has not been without controversy. In 2022, it was revealed that she held a non-domiciled status in the UK, meaning she did not have to pay UK tax on her overseas income. This sparked a public outcry, given Rishi Sunak’s position as Chancellor of the Exchequer at the time, responsible for overseeing the country’s finances. Following the backlash, Akshata announced she would pay UK taxes on her global income to alleviate concerns and support her husband’s political career.
How Does Akshata Murthy’s Wealth Affect Rishi Sunak’s Career?
Rishi Sunak’s political journey has been both bolstered and burdened by his family’s wealth. On one hand, the financial stability and backing have allowed him to pursue his political ambitions without economic constraints. On the other hand, it has subjected him to scrutiny and criticism, particularly concerning the perception of elitism and disconnect from the average voter.
Despite these challenges, Sunak has remained a prominent figure in UK politics, focusing on economic policies and fiscal management. His tenure as Chancellor saw significant measures to support the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the furlough scheme and various financial relief packages. These efforts have earned him both praise and criticism, illustrating the complex dynamics of wealth and politics.
FAQs
Who is Akshata Murthy?
Akshata Murthy is the wife of Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister. She is the daughter of Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys, a multinational corporation in India. Akshata is an entrepreneur and investor with a rich educational background, including degrees from Claremont McKenna College, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, and Stanford University.
What is Akshata Murthy’s net worth?
As of the latest estimates, Akshata Murthy’s net worth is approximately £500 million around $650 million. This wealth primarily comes from her significant stake in Infosys and other business ventures.
How much of Infosys does Akshata Murthy own?
Akshata Murthy owns 0.93% of Infosys. Given the market capitalization of Infosys, this stake translates to a substantial amount, contributing significantly to her overall net worth.
Conclusion
Akshata Murthy’s net worth and her family’s wealth are significant aspects of understanding the broader context of Rishi Sunak’s political career. Their financial status has provided opportunities and stability but has also brought scrutiny and challenges. As public figures, their story reflects the intricate interplay between personal wealth and public service, highlighting the broader implications for political leaders in contemporary society.
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