Three Swiss Indicted in Hermès Share Dispute.

Three Swiss professionals, including two lawyers and a notary, have been indicted in Paris in connection with a high-profile legal dispute involving shares of the French luxury brand Hermès. The case is linked to allegations of financial misconduct and contested share transfers involving the luxury goods giant LVMH.

The investigation centres on claims made by Nicolas Puech, an 83-year-old Swiss resident and heir connected to the Hermès fortune. He alleges that his former asset manager, Eric Freymond, improperly transferred his Hermès shares in favour of LVMH and its billionaire chairman Bernard Arnault. Freymond, who was previously at the centre of the dispute, has since passed away.

According to the Paris public prosecutor’s office, the individuals under investigation have denied the allegations and are disputing the facts of the case. Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing as legal proceedings continue.

Puech filed a civil complaint in December 2023, accusing his former manager of breach of trust and alleging that assets were mismanaged for decades. He claims that shares held through Swiss-based structures were sold or transferred without his consent or knowledge.

The case has drawn international attention due to its connection with two major luxury conglomerates, Hermès and LVMH, and the long-running tension between their shareholders. Investigators are continuing to examine the financial transactions and legal responsibilities involved in the alleged mismanagement.

The indictment highlights the complexity of cross-border financial disputes involving Swiss asset management structures and major European corporate interests, with further developments expected as the case progresses.