In a surprising move, Hermès heir Nicolas Puech, the largest individual shareholder in the luxury brand, is contemplating an unusual adoption strategy to share a portion of his considerable wealth. Puech, residing in Switzerland, is reportedly looking to adopt a former domestic employee, highlighting an unconventional approach to succession planning. With an estimated fortune of 9 to 10 billion Swiss francs, Puech’s decision to adopt could potentially pave the way for the beneficiary to inherit a significant portion of his wealth.
The 80-year-old billionaire has engaged a lawyer to facilitate the adoption process, a rare legal maneuver in Switzerland. If successful, the adopted individual, described as a 51-year-old former gardener from a modest Moroccan family, stands to inherit at least half of Puech’s substantial fortune.
This unexpected development raises questions about Puech’s prior commitments, particularly a succession pact signed in 2011 in favor of the Geneva-based foundation Isocrate. The foundation, focused on combating disinformation through journalism-supporting NGOs, was initially designated as a beneficiary. However, recent handwritten notes from Puech suggest a change in his intentions, potentially impacting the foundation’s role.
The foundation, taken aback by Puech’s desire to cancel the succession pact, expresses concerns about the sustainability of its public utility activities. Interpersonal conflicts and various interests add complexity to the situation, raising uncertainties about the foundation’s future initiatives.
As this unique adoption and succession saga unfolds, the motivations behind Puech’s decision and the potential implications for Hermès and the charitable foundation remain subjects of intrigue and speculation.
