In Franceone of the most prominent names in the world of telecommunications is Xavier Niel, a tycoon whose influence extends from telecommunications to real estate to the media.
With a fortune that exceeds billion dollarsNiel not only directs Iliadone of the largest suppliers of Internet services in Europe, but also owns the rights to My Waythe iconic song of Frank Sinatra.
How Xavier Niel became one of the richest men in France
This important businessman was born on August 25, 1967 in a middle class family in Paris. His father worked as a lawyer in a pharmaceutical laboratory and his mother was an accountant. From a young age, he showed interest in technologya path that began when he received a computer Sinclair ZX81 as a gift at 15 years old.
In 1987, at the age of 19, he left school to launch his first company, a Minitel based service, precursor of the Internet in France. Although he focused on chat services aimed at the adult audience, this venture turned it into millionaire before the age of 25.
Later, in 1995, he invested in WorldNetthe first internet service provider in France. The sale of this company, in 2000, by 50 million dollars He consolidated his career in the world of telecommunications and began to make his name resonate in this important field.
Niel founded Freea subsidiary of Iliadin 1999. Under his leadership, the company revolutionized the market with affordable Internet rates andinnovative services such as Freebox, which integrated Internet, telephone and television. This disruptive model positioned him as one of the most prominent entrepreneurs in the sector.
On a personal level, Niel maintains a relationship with Delphine Arnaultexecutive vice president of Louis Vuitton and daughter of the billionaire Bernard Arnault. The couple has a daughter together, and Niel has two other children from a previous relationship.
What are the most important assets of Xavier Niel
Xavier is the founder and majority shareholder of Iliadmatrix Freethe second largest Internet provider in France. Furthermore, it has Monaco Telecom and Salt Mobile, two telecommunications operators that consolidate their presence in Europe.
In the media field, the businessman is co-owner of Le Mondeone of the most influential newspapers in France, and has participation in other media such as Nice-Matin. It has also diversified its investments towards real estate, being a shareholder of the group Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, leader in luxury shopping centers.
Another of its curious assets is the ownership of the rights to the song. My Way. This detail shows how Niel combines traditional businesses with more cultural and personal acquisitions.
How much is the estimated net worth of Xavier Niel
At 57 years old, Xavier Niel’s net worth amounts to 10.2 billion dollarsaccording to recent estimates. His fortune is backed by his multiple businesses, which encompass telecommunications, technology, media and real estate.
However, not everything was successful for the tycoon. In 2004 he faced charges for misuse of assets and procuring related to his first investments in business adult entertainment. Although he was acquitted of some charges, he received a suspended sentence. These episodes did not stop his rise in the business world, but they have left a mark on his career.
Source: Ambito
