Forbes

Founded in 1917 by the indomitable B.C. Forbes, Forbes has made a name for itself as the go-to oracle of wealth and business acclaim, with its glossy lists of billionaires and the self-satisfied smugness of a financial seer. Known for its annual “Forbes 400” and “World's Billionaires” lists, it’s a publication that serves as a champagne-soaked bible for those who believe a hefty bank account is the ultimate metric of success. Forbes had its moments of glory, like the launch of Forbes.com in 1996—an early leap into the digital fray that allowed it to bask in the limelight of online business news. Yet the company has seen its share of controversies, including the odd financial squabble and allegations of editorial bias. Valued at a cool $1.7 billion, Forbes operates under the leadership of Steve Forbes, the heir to the original vision and a man whose own name is a form of brand royalty. While it continues to cater to the jet-set and the self-made, its enduring charm is matched only by its ability to both celebrate and critique the very plutocrats it so adores, making it a favorite among the glitterati and the gluttonous alike.