The skinny on the fat wallets of L.A.’s 50 wealthiest.

Rick Caruso

NET WORTH: $2 billion +5%

LAST YEAR: $1.91 billion

AGE: 52 RESIDENCE: Brentwood

SOURCE OF WEALTH: Retail development

THE MONEY: Developer of Grove and Americana at Brand saw mild appreciation of Class A retail properties after taking hit during downturn. Said to have less debt than usual on portfolio, which is nearly 100 percent leased. Two years ago sold off sizable investment portfolio and reinvested more than half of proceeds.

BUZZ: Aggressive year for mall tycoon. Stole Nordstrom away from rival Glendale Galleria with plans to bring it to Americana at Brand center in 2013. Owns Nordstrom’s old building in the Galleria as part of deal, giving him influence over competing mall. Cleared way for 140,000-square-foot Americana expansion by purchasing hotel and vacant building after eminent domain controversy. In February, announced expansion program designed to double portfolio size in next five years. Broke ground in March on $60 million luxury apartment and retail development near Grove. Plans to develop Grove-like project at Santa Anita Park have been stunted by bankruptcy of development partner Magna Entertainment Corp. Said to be leaning toward run for L.A. mayor in 2013. Donated $40,000 last year to successful state ballot measure establishing open primaries; $150,000 in 2008 to successful redistricting ballot measure.