NEW YORK, August 20 (RIA Novosti) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel remains the world's most powerful woman for the fourth year running, according to a ranking published by Forbes magazine.

A prominent newcomer to the list, released on Wednesday, is U.S. first lady Michelle Obama, who takes 40th place, just above Oprah Winfrey. Other notable Americans in the top 100 are Secretary of State Hilary Clinton at number 36, who trails House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at 35th.

The magazine highlighted the challenges facing the German leader amid the global economic slump.

"Up for reelection this September, she is leader of the world's fourth-largest economy. She faces a tough year: Germany's GDP is expected to shrink this year despite a small uptick in the second quarter."

In the Middle East, the magazine singled out Queen Rania of Jordan as the "most listened-to woman", putting her at number 75.

Of the women listed, 27 are corporate leaders, while just 10 are national leaders.