In a high-stakes dispute in Switzerland’s Valais canton, aging billionaire Nicolas Puech, a scion of Europe’s largest family fortune linked to Hermes International SCA, faces opposition from his own charitable entity, the Isocrates Foundation. Puech seeks to nullify his inheritance contract with the foundation, a move publicly contested by the charity.
This familial feud has gained prominence amid reports that Puech, aged 80, is navigating legal procedures to adopt his middle-aged gardener, paving the way for a substantial bequest. Isocrates Foundation asserts that this unilateral annulment of a succession agreement raises legal questions.
While Puech’s lawyer, Jörn-Albert Bostelmann, refrains from specific comments, Isocrates is open to dialogue with its founder. The luxury giant Hermes, associated with Puech, maintains silence on the matter.
This extraordinary family saga spotlights Puech, a secretive Hermes heir who became estranged from his family over a decade ago due to his role in a corporate battle against LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE. With Puech reportedly owning about 5.7% of Hermes, potential conflicts over a fortune estimated at €12 billion loom.
The Isocrates Foundation, originally supporting diverse charitable causes, has shifted focus to public interest, investigative journalism, and responsible digitalization. Puech’s reported move to adopt his gardener adds an unexpected twist to the ongoing Hermes saga.
As legal and familial complexities unfold, the Isocrates Foundation emphasizes its commitment to leaving decisions about Puech’s reported adoption to relevant authorities. The charitable entity, backed by Puech’s initial 10 million Swiss francs, underscores its independence, stating that its assets cannot be returned to the founder, heirs, or donors under its statutes. Explore the intricate dynamics of this high-profile family clash.
