Bernard Arnault's Growing Interest in AI

Bernard Arnault, the founder and CEO of LVMH, the world's largest luxury goods company, is making a significant push into the artificial intelligence (AI) space. Through his tech-focused venture firm and family office, Aglaé Ventures, Arnault has been actively investing in a range of AI-driven startups.

• Arnault's investment strategy reflects a growing trend among high-net-worth individuals and corporations to capitalize on the potential of AI.
• AI is transforming industries across the globe, and Arnault's investments demonstrate his belief in the transformative power of this technology.

Aglaé Ventures' AI Investments

In 2024, Aglaé Ventures made five strategic investments in AI companies, demonstrating Arnault's commitment to this technology. These investments, totaling over $300 million, highlight the breadth of Arnault's vision for AI's future.

• One of the most notable investments was a $220 million funding round for H, formerly known as Holistic AI, a French startup aiming to achieve full artificial general intelligence. H was founded by former members of Google's DeepMind AI unit and includes venture firm Accel Partners LP and Wendy and Eric Schmidt, the former CEO of Google, among its investors.
• Aglaé also participated in a $25 million seed round for Lamini, a Palo Alto, California-based startup developing enterprise AI applications.
• In addition, Aglaé invested in a $12 million Series A round for Proxima, a New York-based company utilizing AI for digital marketing.
• Aglaé joined Susquehanna in a $27 million seed round for Borderless AI, a Toronto-based human resource management platform that utilizes AI to streamline HR processes.
• Furthermore, Aglaé invested in Photoroom, a France-based AI image editor, as part of a $43 million investment round.

Arnault's Investment History and Technology Focus

Arnault's interest in AI is not a new phenomenon. He has a history of backing successful technology startups. Aglaé Ventures has made over 150 investments since 2017, with a significant portion going to technology companies.

• In the late 1990s, Arnault invested in 75 startups, demonstrating his long-standing belief in the entrepreneurial spirit and the potential of technology to disrupt traditional industries.
• Arnault's family office was an early investor in companies like Netflix, Spotify, and Airbnb, highlighting his foresight and understanding of the potential of these technologies.

Beyond AI: Arnault's Diversified Portfolio

While AI is a central focus for Arnault, his investments extend beyond this sector. Aglaé Ventures has a diversified portfolio, reflecting a range of interests across various industries.

• Aglaé has invested in consumer goods, business services, financial services, and digital health platforms like Noom.
• The family office also participated in multiple rounds of funding for Back Market, a French-based marketplace for refurbished electronics products, demonstrating Arnault's interest in sustainability and the circular economy.
• Arnault's passion for art is reflected in investments like LaCollection, a digital art platform, and Chrono24, a watch trading platform, indicating his commitment to both technology and luxury goods.

The Potential of AI: Arnault's Vision

Arnault's investment strategy is driven by a belief in the transformative power of AI. He sees AI as a key driver of innovation across industries, capable of revolutionizing existing business models and creating entirely new ones.

• Arnault views AI as a force for efficiency, optimization, and personalization, enhancing customer experiences and creating new opportunities for growth.
• He believes AI can play a crucial role in addressing complex challenges, such as sustainability and healthcare, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.

Arnault's Legacy: From Luxury to Tech

Bernard Arnault's journey from luxury goods mogul to tech investor reflects his adaptability and commitment to innovation. He understands the power of technology to disrupt industries and create new possibilities.

• Arnault's investment strategy demonstrates his belief in the potential of AI to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.
• He's positioning himself and his family office at the forefront of this technological revolution, ensuring that his legacy extends far beyond the world of luxury goods.