As the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 fast approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a pivotal gathering of influential figures in the luxury sector. With nearly 50 distinguished speakers taking to the stage throughout the day, the event will explore the overarching theme “Redefining Luxury Through a Global Lens.”
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Hong Kong, the Leaders of Luxury Summit, hosted by Robb Report Hong Kong and supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, is poised to be one of the most significant international events on the luxury calendar, attracting a congregation of over 300 attendees from all corners of the world, representing top-tier industries spanning the gamut of luxury and lifestyle brands.
Our day-long programme is meticulously structured into half-hour sessions, allowing speakers, panellists, and moderators to delve into pressing topics that shape the luxury landscape, designed not just to inform, but also to spark dialogue. Central to this experience are five spotlight sessions featuring prominent industry leaders, each presenting ideas pertinent to their respective segments, who will undoubtedly inspire and provoke thought, conversation, and change, elevated by the joint discussion among likeminded individuals who are ahead of the game and able to direct what happens next.
Chanin Donavanik, vice chairman and executive committee chairman of Dusit International, is joining Mary Gostelow, president of Gostelow Report, to explore the topic of “Redefining Luxury Through Legacy.” In the realm of luxury hospitality, the concept of legacy holds immense significance. Donavanik exemplifies this notion through the story of Dusit International, a brand founded by his mother that is steeped in heritage and committed to excellence. Under his stewardship, the company has successfully navigated the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, ensuring that the values instilled by its founders continue to resonate in today’s dynamic market.
As Dusit seeks to expand its footprint, Donavanik’s insights into how the brand will maintain its legacy while embracing contemporary trends will be invaluable. His perspective on the enduring influence of familial roots in shaping luxury experiences will surely resonate with attendees who appreciate the intricate waltz between history and innovation.
Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group, will take to the stage to discuss “Redefining Luxury Through Innovation” with Tak Man, CEO and publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong. Ferretti Group stands as a paragon of excellence in the luxury leisure vessel sector, leading the way in the design, construction, and sale of yachts. Under the leadership of Galassi, the company has not only maintained its prestigious reputation but has also embraced innovation to meet the evolving demands of ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
In his spotlight, Galassi will address the current state of the luxury yacht market, particularly in Italy, where interest in yacht investment opportunities is surging, raising the industry to new heights. He will share insights on how Ferretti is steering its course as a pioneering innovator, all while ensuring robust financial performance. Delegates can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the intersection between luxury leisure yachts and investment, as well as the role of craftsmanship in the modern maritime industry.
Sebastian Paredes, head of North Asia of DBS and CEO of DBS Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, will be in conversation with Tak Man, CEO and publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong, to explore “What’s Next for the Greater Bay Area?” in his spotlight. China’s Greater Bay Area (GBA) is rapidly emerging as a pivotal economic hub, often likened to the Silicon Valley of the East. Under the guidance of Paredes, DBS is at the forefront of this transformation, providing innovative financial solutions that meet the needs of a new generation of investors and entrepreneurs. Paredes’s insights into the GBA will be particularly relevant for luxury market stakeholders. He will discuss the opportunities in serving high-net-worth populations in the GBA, the dynamic region’s growth rate, and the investment preferences that DBS has recorded in recent years. Delegates will gain valuable perspectives on how the evolution of the GBA will impact the luxury market in the long term. Investors in the mix? Well, here’s some food for thought on what opportunities lie ahead.
Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, CEO and chairman of Bentley Motors, will lead the conversation on “Redefining Luxury Through Sustainability and Personalisation” with Tak Man, CEO and publisher of Robb Report Hong Kong. Bentley Motors has long been synonymous with definitive luxury and craftsmanship, and under Dr Walliser’s leadership, the brand is embracing a future that prioritises sustainability alongside performance without sacrificing the core elements and DNA that makes the brand of Bentley exalted beyond premium vehicles in their lane. It cannot be denied today, in age of EV, that the automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and Bentley is at the forefront of this evolution, focusing on electrification and eco-conscious practices.
In his session, Dr Walliser will examine how Bentley navigates the intersection of heritage and innovation, ensuring that the brand remains a beacon of luxury while adapting to contemporary values. He will discuss the importance of bespoke ownership in redefining luxury for ultra-high-net-worth consumers, highlighting how unique personalisation can enhance the luxury experience in an environmentally responsible manner.
Nadine Ghosn, CEO and founder of Nadine Ghosn Fine Jewellery, will speak with Victoria Tang-Owen, creative director of Thirty30 Creative and Victoria Tang Studio, to close the day’s discussion, all while focused on the topic “Exploring the Future of Luxury.” Ghosn is a young visionary in the world of contemporary jewellery, redefining what luxury means through her innovative and playful designs. Her creations challenge conventional norms, celebrating individuality and empowering wearers to express their uniqueness.
With an impressive clientele that ranges from fashion icons to A-list musicians, Ghosn’s work transcends mere adornment—it is a celebration of identity and artistry, with an element often missing in fashion: good humour. In her spotlight session, Ghosn will explore the future of luxury in the jewellery sector and address how her creative ethos fosters a dialogue around authenticity and self-expression, offering a refreshing perspective on jewellery as an investment in oneself, and comment on how the evolving landscape of luxury jewellery reflects broader societal trends and personal narratives that drive the industry forward.
Robb Report Hong Kong’s Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 promises to be a landmark event as more than 40 luminaries walk up to stage to address essentially a global audience. Scheduled to take place from 26 to 28 November 2024 at Regent Hong Kong, the Leaders of Luxury Summit will feature the aforementioned guests, as well as a diverse array of world-class speakers and panellists. Through engaging talks, thought-provoking discussions, and stimulating keynotes, participants will explore the dominant trends and future directions of the global luxury industry in what we hope will be an annual affair after this inauguration.
As the day of insightful discourse culminates in a glamorous black-tie gala dinner, attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate excellence in luxury. Themed “Best of the Best,” the evening will feature an awards presentation, honouring the achievements of leaders in the luxury sector, live entertainment, fine wine and food, and more. With such a rich programme, the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 is set to be an unforgettable experience, marking a new chapter in the evolution of luxury in Hong Kong.
For more information and full list of confirmed speakers, click here.
