Early Life and Education of Bernard Arnault: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Bernard Arnault. From birth to education, explore key events.

Bernard Arnault is a French businessman who serves as the chairman and CEO of LVMH, the world's largest luxury goods company. As of December 2025, he is one of the wealthiest people globally, with a net worth estimated at around US$190-203 billion. His leadership has propelled LVMH to the forefront of the luxury market, encompassing a diverse portfolio of prestigious brands.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

March 1949: Birth of Bernard Arnault

On 5 March 1949, Bernard Jean Étienne Arnault was born in Roubaix, France, to Marie-Josèphe Savinel and Jean Léon Arnault.

1971: Graduation from École Polytechnique

In 1971, Bernard Arnault completed his studies in civil engineering and mathematics at École Polytechnique.

2008: Establishment of Protectinvest foundation

In 2008, Bernard Arnault established Protectinvest, a private foundation in Belgium, to safeguard the integrity of the LVMH group until 2023.

December 2011: Transfer of stake in Groupe Arnault to Pilinvest

In December 2011, Bernard Arnault transferred a 31 percent stake in Groupe Arnault to Pilinvest.

April 2013: Arnault denies intention to leave France and withdraws Belgian nationality request

In April 2013, Bernard Arnault stated that he had been misquoted and that he never intended to leave France, withdrawing his request for Belgian nationality to better protect the foundation he created for LVMH's continuity.

April 2013: Arnault abandons Belgian citizenship application

On 10 April 2013, Bernard Arnault announced he had decided to abandon his application for Belgian citizenship, saying he did not want the move to be misinterpreted as a measure of tax evasion.

2015: Sale of research vessel Amadeus

In late 2015, Bernard Arnault sold the 70 m (230 ft) converted research vessel Amadeus.

2017: Arnault publicly supported Emmanuel Macron

In the second round of the 2017 French presidential election, Bernard Arnault publicly supported Emmanuel Macron.

October 2022: LVMH sells private jet after tracking

In October 2022, Bernard Arnault stated that LVMH sold its private jet after a Twitter user began to track its flights, and he began renting private aircraft for his personal and business flights instead.

December 2025: Net Worth

As of December 2025, Bernard Arnault's net worth was estimated to be US$190.4 billion according to Forbes and US$203 billion according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.