Bernard Jean Étienne Arnault (born March 5, 1949) is a French entrepreneur and one of the most influential figures in the global luxury market. He serves as the Chairman and CEO of LVMH – the world’s largest luxury goods group, home to iconic brands including Louis Vuitton, Dior, Tiffany & Co., Fendi, Sephora, and Moët & Chandon.
Recognized as one of the richest individuals in the world, Arnault’s net worth has consistently ranked among the highest globally. As of May 2025, his fortune was estimated at US$148.7 billion (Forbes) and US$155 billion (Bloomberg Billionaires Index).
Early Life and Education
Arnault was born in Roubaix, France, and raised in a traditional Catholic family. Inspired early by his mother’s passion for Dior, he went on to study civil engineering and mathematics at École Polytechnique, graduating in 1971.
He began his career in the family business, Ferret-Savinel, and later transformed the company toward real estate development—an early glimpse of his strategic and ambitious business approach.
Rise in the Luxury Industry
Arnault entered the luxury business in 1984 through the acquisition of the struggling Boussac group, which included Christian Dior. His successful restructuring marked his breakthrough in the industry and earned him the reputation of a relentless strategist.
In 1987, Arnault played a pivotal role in forming LVMH by merging Louis Vuitton with Moët Hennessy. Over the following decades, he expanded LVMH through a series of major brand acquisitions across fashion, jewelry, watches, wine, and cosmetics. Under his leadership, LVMH became the largest publicly traded company in Europe by market value.
Business Interests and Investments
Beyond LVMH, Arnault has invested in technology companies, media, real estate, and yachts. His family also owns a majority stake in Paris FC, which secured promotion to Ligue 1 in 2025.
Arnault is known for supporting the arts through philanthropy and major cultural initiatives such as the Louis Vuitton Foundation, designed by architect Frank Gehry.
Personal Life
Arnault has five children — Delphine, Antoine, Alexandre, Frédéric, and Jean — all of whom hold leadership positions within LVMH brands. He currently lives in Paris with his wife, pianist Hélène Mercier.
Legacy
Bernard Arnault is widely regarded as the architect of the modern luxury business model. His leadership philosophy blends heritage, timeless craftsmanship, and innovation, ensuring that brands under LVMH remain both culturally iconic and commercially powerful.