Europe’s Wealth Divide: Where the Richest 10% Thrive and Struggle

Luxembourg’s ultra-rich earn 10x more than Turkey’s top 10%—but purchasing power tells a different story. Why are millionaires fleeing Germany?

, and Administrator

2025 November 14 . 3:08 AM

1 min read

In this image we can see a family of five persons. Here we can see a man on the left side is... — In this image we can see a family of five persons. Here we can see a man on the left side is wearing a suit and a tie. Here we can see a woman on the right side. Here we can see three children. Here we can see the smile on their faces.

Europe’s Wealth Divide: Where the Richest 10% Thrive and Struggle

Europe's wealth distribution varies greatly, with some nations boasting high thresholds for the top 10%, while others lag behind. New World Wealth's latest report highlights Luxembourg, Switzerland, Bermuda Islands, Cayman Islands, and Monaco as the wealthiest per capita. Meanwhile, Turkey, Serbia, and Romania have the lowest thresholds. Maxine Schneider, CEO of Buchhaltungsbutler, warns of potential long-term prosperity risks due to stark economic disparities.

Luxembourg, Norway, and Denmark top the list with the highest thresholds for the top 10%. Conversely, Turkey, Serbia, and Romania have the lowest. In terms of wealth per capita, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Bermuda Islands, Cayman Islands, and Monaco lead the pack. However, when considering purchasing power, the picture shifts. In Turkey, the top 10% income translates to around €46,000, one of the lowest in Europe.

Maxine Schneider of Buchhaltungsbutler expresses concern about these disparities. She notes that in 2024, 200 millionaires left Germany, with a similar trend expected in 2025. Wealth migration among the ultra-rich could exacerbate wealth inequality. Schneider's study reveals that a three-person household needs €71,000 net per year to be in Europe's top 10%. Germany's threshold stands at €93,000, ranking seventh. However, when adjusted for purchasing power, Germany ranks fourth, with top earners able to afford goods and services worth around €85,000.

Europe's wealth distribution varies significantly, with some nations enjoying high wealth per capita and purchasing power, while others struggle. As wealth migration continues, addressing these disparities will be crucial for Europe's long-term prosperity. Maxine Schneider's warnings underscore the need for policy attention to ensure a more balanced wealth distribution.