Johann Graf: The Austrian Millionaire Who Made a Fortune in the World of Games
In the world of business, there are countless stories of millionaires who have achieved great success. Some inherit their wealth, while others, like Johann Graf from Austria, build their empires from humble beginnings. According to Forbes, Graf is one of the richest people on the planet, thanks to his company Novomatic.
Born into a humble family in Austria in 1947, Graf’s childhood was marked by poverty. Despite his family’s wishes for him to take over their butcher shop in Vienna, Graf had different aspirations. In the 1970s, he started importing American “Pinball” machines and later brought slot machines from Great Britain to Austria.
In 1980, Graf founded Novomatic Automatenhandels AG, which quickly became a leading provider of slot machines worldwide. The company expanded to Switzerland and Eastern Europe, dominating the market with a 70% share. Today, Novomatic offers gaming machine rental services, develops innovative gaming systems, and operates land-based and electronic casinos, as well as sports betting outlets.
As of 2024, Johann Graf’s net worth is estimated at $7.1 billion, ranking him 385th on the Forbes list of the world‘s wealthiest individuals. Despite facing challenges and family pressure to pursue a different career, Graf’s entrepreneurial spirit and vision for the gaming industry have made him one of the most successful businessmen in the world.
Whether you’re a fan of online betting or not, Johann Graf’s story serves as a reminder that success can come from humble beginnings and seizing opportunities in unexpected places. As Novomatic continues to thrive in the gaming industry, it’s essential to engage in responsible gambling practices.