In a world increasingly obsessed with wealth and status, luxury auctions continue to exemplify the stark divide between the affluent and the average citizen. The recent auction of an exclusive evening with Tan Su Shan, CEO of DBS Group, is not merely about securing a memorable experience—it is a powerful symbol of how capitalism perpetuates
Wealth
In an era where financial advice has become increasingly commoditized, J.P. Morgan Private Bank’s latest venture into lifestyle services reveals a troubling trend: the desire to commodify exclusivity itself. While such offerings might appear appealing on the surface—a curated suite of perks for the ultra-rich—they also expose a fundamental shift in the priorities and values
Tesla’s recent proposal to drastically increase CEO Elon Musk’s compensation package reveals a troubling trend within corporate leadership—an obsession with exceptional personal wealth that borders on greed rather than responsible stewardship. While the company claims that such a pay package is essential to keep Musk focused amid his burgeoning portfolio of private ventures, this logic
The recent wave of classic car auctions in Monterey and Pebble Beach, traditionally regarded as the pinnacle of luxury collectible markets, belies a sobering truth: this glittering spectacle of vintage automobiles masks underlying fragility and shifting tastes. While headline figures tout an impressive $400 million worth of cars changing hands, a deeper analysis reveals that
The modern landscape of family offices is no longer just about safeguarding generational wealth; it is morphing into a battleground where talent is bought and sold like commodities. What once may have been rooted in trust and discreet negotiations now resembles corporate America’s high-stakes game of compensation inflation. The recent push toward structured, performance-based incentive
The recent proposal of a 15% tariff on European-made recreational yachts exposes a deeper issue that transcends mere pricing mechanics. It underscores a troubling trend where economic policies unintentionally deepen inequality, favoring the already privileged while marginalizing those who seek access to luxury goods through genuine effort and innovation. While wealthy buyers may seem insulated
In recent months, the luxury industry seems to be caught in a paradoxical dance—signs of recovery flickering on the horizon, yet underlying vulnerabilities remain glaringly apparent. Major brands like LVMH have shown resilience, but a closer look reveals that their so-called “improved” results are more a reflection of temporary shifts than sustainable growth. A 4%
In recent years, the persistent decline in art auction sales underscores a sobering reality: the myth of unassailable wealth among the ultra-rich may be cracking. Despite record-high personal fortunes and stock market rallies, the art world faces its most significant downturn in over a decade. This paradox suggests that the outward display of wealth—through luxurious
In an industry where exclusivity often justifies premium pricing, Moncler’s recent strategy of modest price hikes reveals a tense negotiation between maintaining brand prestige and accommodating an increasingly cautious consumer base. Slightly raising prices—what the company characterizes as “very slight” and “mid-single-digit” increases—is a risky game. It signifies a fragile attempt to offset mounting input
In recent years, what was once reserved for the ultra-rich is becoming increasingly marketed as the ultimate badge of distinction: private jet travel. The recent investment by LVMH’s private equity arm into Flexjet isn’t merely about expanding a fleet; it signifies a cultural shift where luxury is no longer just about owning expensive possessions, but