Investment

The power of luxury: growth and resilience

by Maria Hernandez

The power of luxury: growth and resilience

Despite the current economic downturn, the luxury sector is resilient and continues to grow, while maintaining high margins.

In the current global landscape, luxury companies have established themselves as attractive and strategic investments. In the context of major challenges, the sector is emerging as a bastion of economic stability and a status symbol. Luxury giants such as Hermès and LVMH, iconic companies such as Prada and little gems such as Jungfraubahn are examples that not only embody luxury and exclusivity, but also offer solid financial opportunities.

Indeed, despite global economic fluctuations, the luxury sector has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for resilience and financial stability. Indeed, even in times of economic downturn, these companies often retain their value thanks to the loyalty of their wealthy customers. A case in point is Hermès, which has maintained steady growth over the years, even during recessions, thanks to the exclusivity of its products. In terms of performance, the company has even outperformed technology giants such as Meta and Alphabet, while exhibiting lower volatility.

A WELL-DIVERSIFIED SECTOR
Another great advantage that characterises most of the players in this industry is their diversified portfolio, which covers different brands and market segments, ranging from fashion and accessories to hotels and high-end drinks. LVMH is an excellent example of this diversification, with over 70 brands under its umbrella, including legendary names such as Louis Vuitton, Dior and Moët & Chandon. This strategy not only mitigates risk, but also facilitates geographic expansion by taking advantage of growth in emerging markets.

INNOVATING WHILE REMAINING TRUE TO THEIR HERITAGE
These companies also stand out for their ability to innovate while preserving their heritage and maintaining very high barriers to entry. Prada, for example, is renowned for its emphasis on innovation in design and materials, combining traditional Italian craftsmanship with modern technology. This fusion of innovation and tradition gives rise to unique products that appeal to demanding and loyal consumers, guaranteeing a steady stream of income and keeping the circle closed to just a few exclusive brands.

STRONG PRICING POWER
Finally, another attractive feature of luxury companies is their exceptional brand positioning, which enables them to set high prices, with margins far higher than those of their less exclusive competitors. This recognition is the result of decades of investment in quality, design and refined marketing strategies. Jungfraubahn, known for its exclusive destinations in the Swiss Alps, has established itself as an icon of luxury mountain tourism, attracting a global clientele in search of unique and unrivalled experiences.

Investing in luxury companies such as those mentioned above guarantees solid financial stability and effective diversification, thanks in part to their intangible value through prestige and exclusivity. Indeed, these companies not only market products, they also offer experiences and an ambitious lifestyle that continues to be sought after worldwide, particularly by the younger generation. For these reasons, acquiring luxury companies can be a strategic and profitable long-term decision.

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Antonio Mira
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, MEMBER OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Antonio Mira joined NS Partners in 2006 as Group Chief Financial Officer. He heads the corporate functions and is involved in coordinating and implementing the decisions of the Executive Committee.
An experienced bank auditor, Antonio started his career in 1995 with Arthur Andersen, where he worked for some 7 years before joining Ernst & Young in 2002 as a Senior Manager.
Antonio is a Swiss chartered accountant and a Business graduate of Lausanne University (HEC).

Sébastien Poiret
DEPUTY HEAD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Sébastien Poiret joined NS Partners in 2008 and manages funds of hedge funds and private client mandates. He also oversees the development of the Group’s offices in Mauritius.

Prior to joining NS Partners, he served as a Trader, Head of Manager research and Portfolio Manager in the USA and Switzerland for a single hedge fund (1998-2004) and for Optimal (2004-2008), Grupo Santander’s fund-of-hedge funds operations.

Sébastien holds a Bachelor’s degree in Corporate Finance from the ESPEME Business School (EDHEC Group) and an MBA in Finance and Economics from the Institute of Business Administration, both in Nice.

Abir Oreibi
BOARD DIRECTOR

Abir Oreibi joined the Board of the NS Partners Group in 2018, where she brings her truly international perspective and rich experience.
Among many other ventures, Abir set up Alibaba.com’s first European office. After living and working in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok and London, she now lives in Geneva, where she is CEO of Lift Events, an organization that identifies technology trends, their business and social impact through the organization of events and open innovation programs. Issues related to the challenges and opportunities created by new technologies as well as the strategic responses from organizations are at the heart of Lift’s activities.
Abir holds a BA in Political Sciences from the University of Geneva. She is an investor, and member of advisory and innovation boards.

Romain Pidoux, CAIA

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Romain Pidoux joined NS Partners in 2011 and heads the Group’s Risk Management.
He started his financial career in 2005 as Head of Quantitative Analysis for a Swiss Family Office, selecting funds and managing portfolio allocation. In 2008, he switched to the alternative world and joined Peak Partners as hedge funds analyst.
He is a Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) and holds a Master’s degree in international relations from the Graduate Institute of International Studies at Geneva University.

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