Bernard Arnault is the richest person in France and one of the richest persons in the world. He is also listed in Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in The World.

 He was born on 5th March 1949. He inherited his father’s construction business. After joining his father’s company Bernard Arnault convinced his father to liquidate the construction business and diversify to Real Estate.

 In 1981, Mr Arnault emigrated to the United States and created Ferinel Inc. This company dealt in developing condominiums in Florida. Ever since then he has been on a wealth accumulation spree. After three years of successful business in the US he returned to France. On his return to France, Mr Arnault acquired Boussac, a textile company which was in turmoil. With this they became the owners of Christian Dior brand, and Le Bon Marché department store.

Mr Arnault set his eyes on luxury goods. LVMH Moët Hennessy • Louis Vuitton S.A.(LVMH) was created by him after merger of Moët et Chandon and Hennessy with Louis Vuitton. This went on to become the largest luxury goods company in the world. This conglomerate brought him his fantastic wealth by the sale of luxury goods all over the world.

 Mr Arnault also bought Carrefour, a supermarket, in March 2007. Arnault owned the art auction house Phillips de Pury & Company from 1999 to 2003. Mr Arnault is reported to own assets worth $26 billions.