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France's Richest Man Hits Back: "Thank You, Le Monde"
๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ Slovenia /Culture & Society

France's Richest Man Hits Back: "Thank You, Le Monde"

From Delo · () Slovenian

Translated from Slovenian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Bernard Arnault, France's wealthiest individual, responded ironically to a six-part investigative series by Le Monde that scrutinized his business dealings and political connections.
  • The series explored Arnault's relationships with various French presidents, LVMH's economic influence, and family succession matters.
  • Arnault sarcastically thanked Le Monde, referencing past nicknames like "The Terminator" and preferring the more "elegant" moniker "the last royal family."

Bernard Arnault, the chairman and CEO of luxury conglomerate LVMH and France's wealthiest person, has publicly reacted to a critical six-part investigative series published by the French daily newspaper Le Monde. The series delved into Arnault's extensive business network and his alleged connections with the far-right, sparking considerable discussion.

In a post on social media platform X, Arnault expressed his 'gratitude' with a touch of irony. He stated, "Thank you. I haven't received such treatment since I took over Boussac in 1984." He recalled being called "The Terminator" back then, adding that he now "much prefers the nickname the last royal family โ€“ it sounds much more elegant."

The Le Monde investigation meticulously examined various facets of Arnault's influence. It focused on his relationships with French presidents across different political spectrums, the significant sway LVMH wields within the French economy, and the intricacies of succession planning within the Arnault family. The series also touched upon his involvement in media ownership.

Thank you. I haven't received such treatment since I took over Boussac in 1984. Back then they called me The Terminator. I much prefer the nickname the last royal family โ€“ it sounds much more elegant.

โ€” Bernard ArnaultArnault posted this on X in response to a critical investigative series by Le Monde.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Delo in Slovenian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.