Othman Benjelloun at a Glance
- Categories: Business > Billionaires, Business
- Net Worth: $1.4 Billion
- Birthdate: 1931 (93 years old)
- Birthplace: Fes
Othman Benjelloun: A Deep Dive into the Net Worth and Business Empire of Morocco’s Billionaire
Introduction: Othman Benjelloun – A Profile
Othman Benjelloun is a prominent figure in the business world, particularly in Morocco and across the African continent. Known for his shrewd business acumen and strategic investments, Benjelloun has built a substantial fortune and a diversified empire. This article delves into the life, career, and net worth of Othman Benjelloun, exploring the key milestones that have shaped his success.
Early Life and Family Background
Othman Benjelloun’s journey began within a family with strong roots in the Moroccan business landscape. His family already held a significant stake in an insurance company, providing him with an early introduction to the industry. This familial foundation would prove crucial in shaping his future career trajectory and providing him with the initial resources to build his own legacy.
The Rise of RMA Watanya: From Insurance to Dominance
In 1988, Othman Benjelloun took the reins of the family’s insurance firm, a pivotal moment that would transform the company and define his early success. Under his leadership, the company was rebranded and expanded, evolving into RMA Watanya, a leading insurance provider in Morocco. Benjelloun’s strategic vision and effective management turned RMA Watanya into a dominant player in the Moroccan insurance market, laying the groundwork for further expansion into other sectors.
BMCE Bank and the Expanding Banking Empire
Building upon the success of RMA Watanya, Benjelloun expanded his business interests into the banking industry. His publicly-traded BMCE Bank (Banque Marocaine du Commerce Extérieur) became another cornerstone of his business empire. Through strategic acquisitions and organic growth, BMCE Bank expanded its presence across Africa, establishing a footprint in at least 12 countries. The acquisition of the Mali-based Bank of Africa in 2010 was a particularly significant move, solidifying BMCE Bank’s pan-African reach.
FinanceCom: Diversification into Telecommunications and Beyond
Beyond insurance and banking, Othman Benjelloun’s holding company, FinanceCom, reflects his diversified investment strategy. FinanceCom holds significant interests in various sectors, including telecommunications, airlines, and information technology. This diversification underscores Benjelloun’s ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities across different industries, contributing significantly to his overall net worth and business influence. This holding company allows for investment in a wide range of ventures and helps to insulate the business from economic fluctuations in any single market.
Othman Benjelloun’s Net Worth and Financial Standing
Othman Benjelloun’s net worth is a testament to his successful career and strategic investments. While the exact figure fluctuates, his estimated net worth currently stands at approximately $1.4 billion. This financial standing places him among the wealthiest individuals in Morocco and reflects the considerable value generated by his various business ventures. The banking sector alone, based on market capitalization, is valued at around $4 billion, further illustrating the scale of his financial success.
Family Life and Succession: The Next Generation
Othman Benjelloun is married and has two children. His son, Kamal Benjelloun, is identified as a clean tech enthusiast, signaling a potential interest in sustainable and innovative technologies. Kamal’s involvement suggests a possible line of succession, with the younger Benjelloun potentially poised to inherit and continue the family’s business legacy.
Othman Benjelloun: Impact and Legacy
Othman Benjelloun has left a significant mark on the Moroccan and African business landscapes. His ability to transform and grow businesses, his strategic investments, and his expansion across multiple sectors highlight his entrepreneurial prowess. He is considered one of the richest people in Morocco, and his influence extends far beyond his personal wealth. His legacy will likely be defined by his ability to build successful businesses and his role in driving economic growth in Morocco and across Africa.
Conclusion
Othman Benjelloun’s story is one of entrepreneurial vision, strategic execution, and sustained success. From taking over the family’s insurance business to building a diversified empire spanning banking, telecommunications, and other sectors, Benjelloun has established himself as a prominent figure in the business world. His net worth reflects the considerable value he has created, and his impact on the Moroccan and African economies is undeniable. As his son, Kamal, begins to take an interest in the family businesses, it remains to be seen how the company will evolve for future generations.

(Photo by Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images)