BillionaireNet
Junior
W
Rank #859
BRAZILfinance-investmentsBanking, minerals

Walther Moreira Salles Junior

Net Worth
$4.713B
+0.03% (24h)
Walther Moreira Salles Junior is a prominent Brazilian filmmaker and a member of one of Brazil's oldest banking families. Born on April 12, 1956, his wealth stems from banking and his significant stake in CBMM (Companhia Brasileira de Metalurgia e Mineração), the world's leading supplier of niobium. He is also the director of acclaimed films such as "Central Station" and "The Motorcycle Diaries." Salles's career highlights include numerous awards and international recognition for his cinematic achievements. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is $4.9 billion, reflecting his success in both the finance and entertainment industries.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Walther Moreira Salles Júnior was born on April 12, 1956, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. His father, Walter Moreira Salles, was a diplomat, which led to young Walther residing in France and the United States during his childhood.

Rise to Success

Salles attended the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts. His first major film was "Foreign Land" released in 1995. However, he gained international acclaim with "Central Station" in 1998, which earned two Academy Award nominations and won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA award. Salles further solidified his reputation with "The Motorcycle Diaries" in 2004. He has directed over 20 films.

Key Business Strategies

Salles, along with his three brothers, also owns a significant stake in CBMM, the world's leading supplier of niobium. This diversified his wealth beyond filmmaking into the minerals industry. His family has a controlling stake in Itaú Unibanco, the largest bank in Latin America.

Philanthropy

The information about the exact amount of Walther's philanthropy could not be found.

Career Timeline

2008

Co-directed "Linha de Passe"

Nominated for the Palme d'Or.

2004

Released "The Motorcycle Diaries"

Marked his international success, becoming a box-office hit.

1998

Released "Central Station"

Earned international acclaim and Academy Award nominations.

1995

Directed "Foreign Land"

His first notable film, which was released in Brazil.

Philanthropic Impact

CultureUndisclosed

Instituto Moreira Salles

The institute promotes cultural programming.

Wealth Trajectory