- The emperor: the emperor held absolute power and was the ultimate owner and disposer of all land, wealth and resources in the empire. They could allocate land and privileges as they saw fit, and taxation and trade policies were decided by the emperor and their administration.
- The senatorial aristocracy: the senatorial aristocracy was a wealthy and powerful group of nobles and landowners who held significant economic and political influence in Roman society. They owned vast estates and often had commercial and financial interests.
- The equestrian order: the equestrian order was a social class below the senatorial aristocracy but still relatively wealthy and influential. They held various administrative and financial positions in the empire and often engaged in trade and commerce.
- Large landowners and wealthy individuals: there were also wealthy landowners and individuals who were not necessarily members of the senatorial or equestrian orders. They owned large estates and invested in various economic activities.
- Temples and religious institutions: some temples and religious institutions in the Roman Empire accumulated significant wealth and resources, including valuable lands, offerings and donations from worshippers.