What is Gianluigi & Rafaela Aponte's Net Worth?
Gianluigi & Rafaela Aponte are esteemed entrepreneurs from Switzerland, boasting a remarkable net worth of $8 billion. Gianluigi, originally of Italian descent, embarked on his career as a ferry ship captain. It was during this phase of his life in the late 1960s that he met Rafaela, who would soon become his wife and steadfast partner in their business ventures.
The Journey of Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A.
In 1970, Gianluigi made a pivotal decision to enter the shipping industry by founding the Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC). Under his leadership as Chairman, MSC has grown to become the second-largest container shipping line globally, operating an impressive fleet of 445 vessels. This places MSC right behind the industry leader, Maersk, which manages 470 ships.
Expansion into the Cruise Industry
Not one to rest on his laurels, in 1998, Gianluigi expanded MSC's operations to include the cruise industry. MSC Cruises quickly garnered a reputation for its authentic Italian culinary experiences, further solidifying Gianluigi's influence in the maritime sector.
Recent Business Endeavors
Continuing his innovative streak, Gianluigi executed a significant business maneuver in 2013 by selling a 35% stake in the global port operator Terminal Invest for $1.9 billion. This strategic move highlights his acumen in identifying growth opportunities and maximizing returns.
