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Bernard Arnault secures majority control of LVMH with 50%+ stake

A bold power move in high-end retail: Arnault's $165B bet on LVMH defies luxury sector slowdown. What's next for Europe's most valuable empire?

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Bernard Arnault secures majority control of LVMH with 50%+ stake

Bernard Arnault has strengthened his grip on LVMH by increasing his family's stake to over 50 percent. The move secures majority control of the luxury goods giant, which includes brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Tiffany & Co. With LVMH's market value now at around €280 billion, the Arnault family's holdings are estimated to be worth roughly $165 billion.

Arnault first announced his plan to cross the 50 percent ownership mark in January. Since then, he has steadily expanded his shareholding, reaching 50.01 percent of LVMH's capital. This consolidation comes as the company faces a shifting stock market landscape.

LVMH's market capitalisation has dropped from about €410 billion at the start of 2023 to roughly €350 billion by early 2026. The decline reflects broader challenges in the luxury sector, including weaker demand from Chinese consumers after COVID-19 restrictions eased. Inflation, a strong euro, and geopolitical tensions have also weighed on global spending.

Despite these pressures, Arnault remains committed to his luxury empire. His increased stake reinforces control over one of Europe's most valuable companies, even as market conditions evolve.

The Arnault family now holds a majority position in LVMH, solidifying Bernard Arnault's influence over the business. With the luxury market facing headwinds, the move underscores his long-term confidence in the company's future. The family's stake, valued at $165 billion, remains one of the largest fortunes tied to a single corporation.

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