The largest companies globally, as determined by market capitalization, span diverse market sectors, encompassing technology, communication services, energy, consumer cyclicals, and financial services. A significant number of these top-ranking companies boast annual revenues in the hundreds of billions of dollars. Notably, there are a select few that generate less than $100 billion in annual revenue, indicating the prevailing investor optimism regarding the growth potential of these specific enterprises compared to their counterparts on the list.
The rankings are based on TradingView’s compilation of the largest companies by market capitalization. As of January 20, 2024, the figures provided, sourced from TradingView, present a snapshot of the market landscape and the standing of these companies in the global economic arena.
Microsoft (MSFT)
Market Cap: $2.96 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $218.31 billion
Net Income (TTM): $77.1 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 64.6%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 1975
In the realm of innovation, Microsoft stands as an unwavering colossus. As a global developer and licenser of software, devices, solutions, and services, Microsoft has transcended the conventional boundaries of technology. Renowned for Windows, Office Suite, and Xbox gaming hardware, Microsoft is not merely a spectator but a leader in the cloud computing arena. Azure, its primary cloud platform, has become synonymous with cutting-edge solutions. The acquisition of LinkedIn further solidifies its foothold in the professional networking sphere, underlining Microsoft’s commitment to holistic technological advancement.
Apple (AAPL)
Market Cap: $2.96 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $383.29 billion
Net Income (TTM): $97 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 39.1%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 1976
Apple, a paragon of elegance in consumer technology, has carved an indelible mark on the global stage. Beyond its iconic iPhone and Mac devices, Apple has orchestrated a symphony of products spanning wearables, home entertainment, and digital services. The expansion into services, exemplified by AppleTV+ and a robust cloud ecosystem, showcases the company’s adaptability. With a legacy of design excellence and a commitment to pushing technological boundaries, Apple remains a titan in the ever-evolving landscape of consumer electronics.
Saudi Aramco (2222.SR)
Market Cap: $2.06 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $501.65 billion
Net Income (TTM): $126.52 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 9.8%
Exchange: Tadawul (Saudi Stock Exchange)
Year Founded: 1933
In the heart of the energy domain, Saudi Aramco reigns supreme. Born from Standard Oil’s overseas operations, it has evolved into an integrated oil and gas powerhouse. Operating upstream and downstream segments, Aramco’s dominion spans crude oil, natural gas, refining, and petrochemical manufacturing. The company’s foray into complex chemical products reflects a commitment to diversification. As a cornerstone of the global energy matrix, Saudi Aramco stands as an exemplar of energy sovereignty.
Alphabet (GOOGL/GOOG)
Market Cap: $1.84 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $296.38 billion
Net Income (TTM): $66.73 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 57.4%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 1998
In the digital realm, Alphabet, the parent of Google, reigns supreme. As the bedrock of the global search engine market, Alphabet’s influence extends far beyond. From the Android operating system to Gmail, Google Maps, and the extensive Google Cloud offerings, Alphabet is omnipresent. The company’s foray into hardware, with Pixel phones and the Google Nest collection, exemplifies a comprehensive approach. Notably, Alphabet’s ventures into AI through the Gemini deep learning model solidify its status as a trailblazer in technological innovation.
Amazon (AMZN)
Market Cap: $1.61 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $554.03 billion
Net Income (TTM): $20.08 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 62.6%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 1994
Amazon, the titan of e-commerce, has rewritten the rules of global retail. Its expansive marketplace, coupled with the world’s largest cloud computing services through Amazon Web Services, positions the company at the zenith of innovation. Beyond traditional retail, Amazon’s foray into subscription services, cloud computing, and a thriving entertainment business showcase a diversified business model. The company’s strategic acquisitions, including Whole Foods, underscore its commitment to reshaping industries and pushing the boundaries of commerce.
Nvidia (NVDA)
Market Cap: $1.47 trillion
Revenue (TTM): $44.88 billion
Net Income (TTM): $18.89 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 246.4%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 1993
Nvidia, a vanguard in graphics processing, has emerged as a beacon in the realms of gaming, AI, and machine learning. The graphics processing unit (GPU), initially a stalwart in PC graphics and gaming, has transcended boundaries. Nvidia’s platforms span gaming, professional visualization, data centers, and automotive markets. The company’s GPUs, pivotal in cryptocurrency mining, showcase the versatility of its technology. In the ever-evolving landscape of graphics and AI convergence, Nvidia stands as a trailblazer.
Meta Platforms (META)
Market Cap: $985.41 billion
Revenue (TTM): $126.96 billion
Net Income (TTM): $29.73 billion
1-Year Trailing Total Return: 172.3%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 2004
Meta Platforms, the steward of Facebook, commands the realms of social media, virtual reality, and beyond. Facilitating connections through Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp, Meta Platforms transcend conventional social media paradigms. The company’s ambitious foray into the metaverse, combining aspects of social media, gaming, augmented reality, and cryptocurrencies, underscores its commitment to shaping the future. Meta Platforms, with its diverse portfolio, stands at the forefront of digital connectivity.
Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A/BRK.B)
Market Cap: $798.46 billion
Revenue (TTM): $395.95 billion
Net Income (TTM): $76.81 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 13.5%
Exchange: New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
Year Founded: 1839
Berkshire Hathaway, a conglomerate giant, epitomizes the legacy of legendary investor Warren Buffett. From its origins as a textile merger in the 19th century, Berkshire Hathaway has transformed into a diversified holding company. With subsidiaries spanning insurance, freight rail transportation, retailing, and energy, the conglomerate’s influence touches myriad industries. Operating manufacturing businesses further diversifies
its portfolio, making Berkshire Hathaway a formidable force in the corporate landscape.
Tesla (TSLA)
Market Cap: $674.54 billion
Revenue (TTM): $95.92 billion
Net Income (TTM): $10.79 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 88.7%
Exchange: Nasdaq
Year Founded: 2003
Tesla, a trailblazer in electric vehicles, has disrupted the automotive industry with its commitment to sustainability and innovation. From the mass-market appeal of the Model 3 to the versatile Model Y and the groundbreaking Cybertruck, Tesla exemplifies the future of transportation. Beyond vehicles, Tesla’s foray into solar panels, energy generation, and storage products signifies a holistic approach to sustainable energy. As a harbinger of change in the automotive horizon, Tesla stands as a symbol of electrifying innovation.
Eli Lilly and Company (LLY)
Market Cap: $596.71 billion
Revenue (TTM): $32.07 billion
Net Income (TTM): $4.99 billion
1-year Trailing Total Return: 76.5%
Exchange: NYSE
Year Founded: 1987
Eli Lilly and Company, a stalwart in the pharmaceutical realm, stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation. With a focus on diabetes, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience, Eli Lilly’s product lines address critical health needs. The company’s commitment to tackling health challenges, including COVID-19, underscores its role as a global healthcare leader. In the ever-evolving landscape of pharmaceuticals, Eli Lilly and Company remains an emblem of excellence.
What Are the Biggest Companies in the World by Revenue?
While market cap delineates the financial might of corporations, revenue unveils a distinct perspective. The top companies by annual revenue, as of Q1 2024, paint a nuanced picture of corporate landscapes.
Top Five Companies by Annual Revenue (Q1 2024):
- Walmart (WMT): $608.79 billion
- Saudi Aramco (2222.SR): $501.65 billion
- Amazon (AMZN): $554.03 billion
- Sinopec (600028.SS): $473.5 billion
- PetroChina (601857.SS): $435.3 billion
Biggest Companies in the World by Number of Employees
In the labyrinth of corporate prowess, the size of the workforce becomes a pivotal metric. Unveiling the companies with the largest employee count as of Q1 2024, we witness the titans that command vast human resources.
Top Five Companies by Employee Count (Q1 2024):
- Walmart (WMT): 2.10 million
- Amazon (AMZN): 1.54 million
- Hon Hai Precision Industry (OTCMKTS: HNHPF): 767,062
- Accenture (ACN): 733,000
- Volkswagen (OTCMKTS: VWAGY): 675,805
Continental Supremacy: Market Cap Across Continents
The global corporate stage extends across continents, each harboring its economic titans. As of Q1 2024, we unveil the largest company by market cap on each continent (excluding Antarctica).
Largest Company by Market Cap on Each Continent (Q1 2024):
- North America – Microsoft (MSFT): $3.0 trillion
- South America – Petrobras (PBR): $105.0 billion
- Europe – Novo Nordisk (NVO): $478.4 billion
- Asia – Saudi Aramco (2222.SR): $2.06 trillion
- Africa – Naspers (NPN.JO): $29.3 billion
- Australia – BHP Group (BHP): $155.7 billion
The Culmination: Trillion-Dollar Behemoths
In the grand tapestry of global commerce, the biggest companies today transcend mere financial metrics. Surpassing the valuation of entire nations, these trillion-dollar behemoths epitomize economic might. As technology and energy spearhead this formidable lineup, the trajectory of these corporate giants shapes the contours of our interconnected world. The past dominance of trading companies, railroads, and steelworks has given way to a new era where tech and energy reign supreme. Time, the ultimate arbiter will unveil whether these luminaries sustain their zenith or yield to emerging forces, defining the future chapters of corporate history.
Vincent Nyagaka is a Professional Trader, Investor, and Author. He has built an 8-figure solid business around Forex, Stocks. He was recognized as one of the top 100 entrepreneurs under the age of 30 by the United Nations. His work is featured in top publications like Entrepreneur, Forbes, Inc., FoxBusiness, and more.
