How to Become the Richest

April 20, 2026

TL;DR

Lorinc Meszaros, Hungary's richest businessman, has a fortune of around $3.8 billion, significantly influenced by his relationship with former Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Meszaros's business empire is vast, encompassing companies in infrastructure (railways), agriculture (apple plantations), tourism (hotels), energy, banking, and media.
His wealth grew exponentially after Orban returned to power in 2011, with Meszaros benefiting from lucrative state contracts and public tenders, often funded by EU money.
Concerns exist about crony capitalism, with allegations that state contracts were inflated and resources were disproportionately allocated to politically connected individuals.
The potential departure of Orban from power has created uncertainty for Meszaros's business dealings and his vast network of companies.
Meszaros's investments extend beyond Hungary, with holdings in Croatia (NK Osijek football club, apple plantations, hotels) and involvement in the Belgrade-Budapest high-speed railway project.
Transparency International has indicated that state contract values were inflated by an average of 25% since 2007.
Meszaros attributes his success to 'God, luck, and Viktor Orban'.

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