2) Janet Yellen

Janet Yellen made history on February 3 2014 when she became the first female to head the Federal Reserve. This economist is the Chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. In October 2015, Bloomberg Markets ranked Janet Yellen first in their annual list of the 50 most influential economists and policymakers.

1) Angela Merkel

Former research scientist Angela Merkel has been the Chancellor of Germany since 22 November 2005. She continues her reign as the most powerful woman in the world. Merkel clinched a third four-year term of Europe’s most vibrant economy in December 2014, making her the longest serving elected European Union head of state.

This ranking is compiled by Forbes. Who among these powerful women inspires you most?