South African billionaire Koos Bekker's Naspers stake gains $108.9 million

Key Points

• Koos Bekker’s stake in Naspers has risen by nearly $108.86 million in 2024, pushing the market value of his holdings above $390 million.
• Naspers’ stock has gained 38.68% year-to-date, lifting its market cap to nearly $390 million and driving growth in Bekker’s $390.27 million stake.
• Naspers’ strong performance has delivered robust returns, with a $100,000 investment in January now worth $138,732, reflecting steady growth for investors.

South African billionaire Koos Bekker, renowned for his investments in the technology sector, has solidified his position among the country’s wealthiest individuals, buoyed by a remarkable surge of nearly $110 million in the market value of his stake in the company since the start of 2024.

Koos Bekker, a titan of South African business, is credited with transforming Naspers from a traditional newspaper publisher into a leading player in e-commerce and cable TV. Despite holding a relatively modest 0.85 percent stake (1,687,887 ordinary shares), Bekker’s influence on the company’s direction remains significant, currently valued at over $390 million. 

Since Jan. 1, the value of his stake has risen by R2.09 billion ($108.86 million), driven by a robust rally in Naspers' share price on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).

Naspers powers Koos Bekker’s fortune

Naspers Limited, a South African multinational with a global footprint in internet, media, and technology, boasts a diversified portfolio spanning online retail, publishing, and venture capital. The company operates across five continents and serves over two billion customers.

Naspers’ stock has gained 38.68 percent year-to-date, rising from R3,050.12 ($170.95) at the start of the year to R4,291.06 ($231.43) per share. The surge has propelled the company’s market capitalization above $42 billion, supported by strong demand from local and international investors.

Bekker’s stake in the company surged by R2.09 billion ($108.86 million), climbing to R7.24 billion ($390.27 million) from R5.15 billion ($281.42 million) at the start of the year. This increase solidifies his standing as one of the JSE’s wealthiest investors. With a worth of $3 billion,Bekker now holds the 9th spot among Africa’s richest individuals.

Your Money and Your Life

Naspers’ recent performance has delivered robust returns for shareholders, rewarding local investors with a 40.7 percent year-to-date gain. For instance, a $100,000 investment in Naspers shares at the start of the year would now be worth $138,732, reflecting a $38,732 profit.