LVMH chair Arnault buys into Richemont – ’hier kom ‘n ding’: Andrea Felsted

In January, Bernard Arnault praised Cartier owner Richemont SA, hinting at potential support for its independence. By June, Arnault had taken a personal equity stake in Richemont, sparking speculation of a future acquisition. Combining Richemont's Cartier and Van Cleef with LVMH's Tiffany and Bulgari would create a jewelry powerhouse. However, Richemont's Chairman Johann Rupert holds significant control and insists the company is not for sale, presenting a major hurdle.

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By Andrea Felsted

In January, Bernard Arnault sang the praises of Cartier owner Cie Financiere Richemont SA. He also quipped that if its Chairman Johann Rupert wanted "support to maintain his independence, I'll be there." It was an odd thing to say — and had luxury watchers wondering what he had in mind.

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