/ 1 January 2002

Bill Gates still richest in US

Despite stock market woes that cost him $11-billion this year, Microsoft boss Bill Gates remains the richest person in the United States.

According to the most recent list compiled by Forbes magazine, Gates has $43-billion in the bank.

In March, when Gates had $54-billion in the bank, he was considered the richest man in the world.

The new list is in the September 30 issue of Forbes, which publishes the ranking annually.

Following Gates is investor Warren Buffet, who has $36-billion, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen ($21-billion), and

six executives in the Wal-Mart store chain.

Together, the 400 richest people in the United States have $872-billion — $74-billion less than last year. – Sapa-DPA