Impact Wealth Summer 2023 Issue

ANTHONY SCARAMUCCI

From Wall Street to Crypto

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ONE

Valkner

HELPING SECURE YOUR FAMILY'S FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.

Executive Director, Financial Advisor, Senior Investment Management Consultant

Helen.Rothlein@ms.com

ALEX GORMAN, CFP ®

Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, Financial Planning Specialist Alexander.Gorman@ms.com

YOUR

With decades of collective experience in wealth management, our team has weathered diverse market conditions, fine-tuning our strategies in an effort to withstand volatility.

With decades of collective experience in wealth management, our team has weathered diverse market conditions, fine-tuning our strategies in an effort to withstand volatility. You can trust that we have the experience to guide you through the complexities of the financial landscape, providing you with reliable counsel that aligns with your aspirations.

We believe that true wealth goes beyond just numbers on a balance sheet; it's about helping empower you to achieve your life's dreams. Whether you seek to secure your family's legacy, pursue entrepreneurial ventures, or retire with confidence, our mission is to align your financial strategy with your life aspirations, striving to propel you forward towards a future of prosperity.

HELEN ROTHLEIN, CIMA ®

STYLE & FASHION

ESTATE SERVICES, LLC: The Synergy of Service By Amy Poliakoff

How to Attract and Keep Domestic Staff in Today’s Competitive Market By Adora Trostle

Water of the gods By Robert Jobson

Sun Kissed Perfection from San Luis Obispo By Adora Trostle

Disrupts Social Media Landscape with User-Centric Model and Fair Compensation for Data By Candice Beaumont

MANEET AHUJA

Breaking Barriers with Forbes Iconoclast, Spotlighting the Most Critical Issues In Today’s Markets Through the World’s Most Influential Investors By Amy Poliakoff

EDITOR’S NOTE The Trailblazers and Visionaries

In the midst of an ever-shifting and uncertain world, our pursuit of progress demands that we remain agile and attuned to the vanguards of innovation. Within these pages, we embark on a journey of enlightenment, engaging with extraordinary trailblazers and visionaries who illuminate the path to a future forged by audacious ideas and revolutionary concepts.

Our cover star this issue is Anthony Scaramucci, a colorful and trailblazing pioneer in finance. He shares insights into his latest investments, political aspirations, and how he is shifting focus from the public market to make a substantial bet on crypto.

In the quest for a sustainable future, we find ourselves captivated by the Greenlight Group, illuminating a path towards renewable and sustainable energy. Their Nordic-focused fund stands as a beacon of hope, supporting visionary companies that have long been ahead of the global curve in pioneering renewable energy technologies that transcend borders and promises a greener tomorrow.

Envision a world unshackled from carbon emissions and energy constraints as we delve into the ingenious realm of Dr. Nicholas Perricone's atomic hydrogen energy invention. A triumph of scientific ingenuity, this breakthrough offers a myriad of applications across aerospace, transportation, and home heating, holding the key to unlocking an era of ecologically balanced energy consumption. For the art enthusiasts, we had the pleasure of catching up with Simon de Pury, an art world impresario at the forefront of the high-stakes art market for decades. His sage counsel imparts the essence of art investment, guiding collectors with the wisdom of experience, and unveiling the masterpieces that stir the deepest human emotions.

We also delve into the frontiers of creativity and artificial intelligence as we unravel the brilliance of Michael Klein's conversations with curator Sebastien Montabonel and the venerable American artist Roger Brown. The fusion of human ingenuity and AI-generated art opens doorways to a new realm of imagination, where the limits of creativity are redefined.

Moreover, in the realm of the visual arts, the celebrated photographer Udo Spreitzenbarth unveils his latest opus, "Light and Dark." Through his lens, the souls of renowned personalities are laid bare, inviting us to contemplate the profound essence of human vulnerability.

As Simon de Pury aptly puts it, "Art is the only true legacy that a human person can leave. The timelessness of art is magic because we all look to find something that is eternal and doesn't fade away." We hope that the stories of these visionaries and trailblazers inspire you with their unwavering passion and forward-thinking perspective, contributing to a transformative and exciting future for generations to come.

Hillary Latos Editor in Chief

hillary@impactwealthmagazine.com

DOMESTIC STAFFING

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Hillary Latos EDITOR IN CHIEF

Candice Beaumont MANAGING EDITOR

Emil Pavlov ART DIRECTOR

Fredo Montes FASHION DIRECTOR

Udo Spreitzenbarth, Dean Powell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Denise Holzer, Robert Jobson, Hollie McKay, Amy Poliakoff, Tali Shine CONTRIBUTORS

Angela Gorman, Adam Weiss PUBLISHERS

Colin Thompson DIRECTOR OF SPONSORSHIP

Scott Pauker DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

In loving Memory of our Associate Publisher, Martin Weiss Impact

www.impactwealth.org info@impactwealth.org

ENJOY SUMMER WITH A CHARTER

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Eight key factors to consider when choosing A FAMILY OFFICE LOCATION

Selecting or reviewing the location of your family office is a complex and challenging exercise. One that can raise issues spanning reputation, regulatory frameworks, tax regimes, access to skilled professionals, political and economic stability, quality of infrastructure, and more. To help you make the right decision, there are eight key attributes to consider when assessing different locations–and why they matter.

By Danielle Valkner Private, Family Office Leader, PwC US

1. THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

What is it? A jurisdiction’s regulatory framework sets out the ground rules and legal regime within which family offices located within its borders must operate. The framework generally oversees aspects like reporting, governance and ownership. Failing to comply with the regulations can create the risk of having the 'license to operate' withdrawn by the jurisdiction’s financial regulator.

Why does it matter? The regulatory environment is fundamental to how the family office will operate. Consider the costs involved in complying with regulatory requirements, including not only the fees paid directly to regulators but also the indirect overheads of maintaining compliance. The biggest consideration should be the role that the regulatory framework will play in the security of your investments and family office structure.

Questions to ask:

1. What kind of legal regime applies: common law, civil law, Sharia, another system or a hybrid of several?

2. What are the likely regulatory costs – both direct and indirect?

3. What are the implications of the legal regime for structures such as shared ownership among family members?

2. THE TAX REGIME

What is it? A location’s tax regime consists of the body of rules, regulation and laws through which the government collects money from businesses and individuals to pay for public services.

Why does it matter? The tax regime is a vital consideration for a family office, both from a costs perspective and because of its implications for the ability to protect and grow the portfolio of assets. The tax regimes in many jurisdictions present significant complexities to

navigate. For example, the costs imposed by the local tax rules may vary between different asset classes. And while some taxes may apply to the proceeds of profits irrespective of where the assets are situated geographically, in other cases they’re applicable depending on the location. Whatever taxes are due, the resulting costs – both in terms of tax contributions and administrative overheads – have an impact on the profitability and the performance of the overall asset portfolio.

Questions to ask:

1. How will tax (both direct and indirect) in the jurisdiction impact the performance of your family’s portfolio?

2. What approach to tax management in the jurisdiction can best help your family preserve its wealth and increase the income from it?

3. How do the OECD and other international bodies view the jurisdiction’s tax regime?

3. ACCESS TO TALENT AND SKILLED PROFESSIONALS

What is it? Like any other business, a family office is really all about people. Its success will depend critically not only on the technical and management skills they bring, but also capabilities like language, local knowledge. The availability and cost of talent with these desirable attributes can vary widely between different jurisdictions across the world.

Why does it matter? Given your family office is – or probably will be – managing your most valuable assets and has access to sensitive and confidential information about the beneficiaries and other affairs, it is imperative that you have the right people managing it. People who not only have the right skillset, experience, and talent but also integrity and loyalty. The best family office professionals and personnel are in heavy demand, so you’ll want to set up your family office location where you have the best chances of finding and retaining the talent.

Questions to ask:

1. What specific skills are you looking for in your family office professionals and personnel?

2. How available are those skills in the jurisdiction –and how much do they cost?

3. How about language requirements and knowledge of the different cultural and business contexts?

4. POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC STABILITY

What is it? When choosing a location, you want to be as sure as possible that the jurisdiction’s overall political and economic environment will remain stable for the foreseeable future. Where this stability exists, it’s possible to select a location with a fair degree of certainty that the attributes you find attractive about it will continue into the future.

Why does it matter? To fulfill its role effectively and with confidence, a family office needs the location where it operates to have long-term stability and predictability in both political and economic terms. In cases where these aspects become unstable, or where corruption is widespread, the effects can impact all the criteria we highlight in this guide – ranging from the regulatory and tax regimes to reputation to access to talent.

Questions to ask:

1. Are there any current or emerging trends in the jurisdiction that could lead to instability?

2. How mature and well-established are the location’s political and economic institutions?

3. Are any neighboring countries or major trading partners facing instability that could have knock-on effects on the jurisdiction?

5. ACCESS TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

What is it? This criterion is about the availability in the location of all the professional and business services that a family office needs to function effectively. Today, these services range from high-quality banking, accounting and tax advice to IT support, data and server security and reliable fast internet access.

Why does it matter? When assessing a jurisdiction for a family office, it’s vital to look at the local market for the advisory and professional services that the office will rely on. Is there an organization available in the location that has the capability and credibility to act as a trustee? If there’s a private bank or banker that the family already trusts, does that bank have a branch there? How about the family’s trusted audit, accounting and tax advisers? It’s also likely that the family office will need an internationally experienced law firm to help with legal documentation going forward, so figure out which firms are represented in the desired location.

Questions to ask:

1. How mature and well respected is the professional services industry in the jurisdiction?

2. Do the family’s trusted banking, accounting and legal providers have branches or correspondent firms in the location?

3. How good is the standard of IT advice and support, and the quality of broadband?

6. REPUTATION

What is it? The reputation of a country is the perception that the international community has of it under a range of criteria and is often used to predict future behaviors. Different jurisdictions have widely varying reputations for transparency, fair dealing, integrity and freedom from corruption.

Why does it matter? The political, media and public scrutiny of where and how high-net-worth individuals protect and manage their wealth has increased sharply in recent years. For example, the media storm over a number of confidential information leaks exemplified why the reputation of a family office location is important. While the wealthy individuals whose identities were revealed had done nothing wrong from a tax and legal perspective, they were pilloried in the press for choosing a location that historically had a reputation for tax avoidance that disadvantages others in society. The result was a negative reputational impact for the individuals themselves, the beneficiaries, the institutions and even the family offices based there.

Questions to ask:

1. How does the jurisdiction rank in the main indices for transparency a nd freedom from corruption?

2. Have you had first-hand verification of the location’s integrity from professionals you know and trust?

3. Do you feel confident that locating your family office there will not adversely impact your own family’s reputation?

7. IMMIGRATION RULES

What is it? A jurisdiction’s immigration rules govern whether someone can live and work in that location, the basis on which they’re allowed to stay, and for how long. The rules also set out the process by which people who want to live permanently in the country can gain residency or even citizenship.

Why does it matter? The immigration rules in force in a location can be an especially relevant factor for those from countries that do not have a powerful passport, or who are looking to find a safe haven for themselves and their families outside their home country. Also in some jurisdictions there might be available ‘investment visas’ that grant citizenship or residency in return for a set level of investment in the country. These are directed towards wealthy foreign nationals who want to gain the right to live in the location by investing a substantial amount of money or purchasing a property. A further consideration is that immigration rules can change frequently as countries’ priorities evolve, so it’s vital to get the most accurate and up-to-date information and advice to inform the choice.

Questions to ask:

1. Are there any rules that will restrict your or your family’s right to visit, stay and/or work in the location?

2. Would you like to live there permanently or even get a passport – and, if so, what is required to achieve that?

3. If you want to bring professionals or staff into the location to work permanently in the family office, will that be possible?

8. CULTURE, LIVING STANDARDS AND CONNECTIVITY

What is it? The attractiveness of a location as a place to live and work reflects a vast array of factors: societal norms, culture and customs, developed infrastructure, from street lighting to broadband to the quality of offices and housing; transport links, domestically and internationally; the level of personal safety; the quality of the education system; the availability of opportunities for leisure and sporting activities; and more.

Why does it matter? This is probably the most subjective of the eight criteria we’re highlighting: to a degree, it’s a question of whether the location feels like a safe, comfortable and welcoming place. However, a number of the factors that make up attractiveness and quality of life can be measured objectively, and these are captured by a number of indices. For example, the World Population Review’s Living Standards Index.

Questions to ask:

1. How good are living standards in the location, judged by statistics such as per capita GDP, crime rates, and schools’ academic performance?

2. Does the location have good international transport links, making it easy to get to and from other parts of the world?

3. Does the location’s culture and societal customs align with your own values?

Learn more about PwC’s family office services: www.pwc.com/us/familyoffice

Jay Kelly & Ann Oleson, Partners Return on

RETURN ON GOOD

Empowering Impact Investment & Philanthropy with Strategic Impact and Visionary Partnerships

In the dynamic world of philanthropy and impact investing, few firms stand out for their dedication to creating a meaningful impact and fostering positive change. Return on Good, a visionary consulting firm co-founded by husband-and-wife duo, Jay Kelly and Ann Oleson, emerges as a beacon of hope, guiding philanthropists, nonprofits, and impact investors on a transformative journey. Impact Wealth spoke with Jay and Ann to explore their remarkable mission, success stories, and their strategic approach to cultivating a brighter future for generations to come.

By Hillary Latos

The

Converge Legacy

and Return on Good's Genesis

Before the inception of Return on Good, Jay and Ann's entrepreneurial spirit flourished through Converge, a highly successful digital marketing agency focused on higher education. For nearly a decade, they collaborated with renowned institutions, like the Wharton School, leveraging digital platforms to connect students with tailored graduate programs. The agency's tremendous growth, culminating in an Inc 500 listing, paved the way for a fortuitous venture capital offer and a successful exit sale.

Inspired by Ann’s family's commitment to philanthropy and experience with her own family office, Jay and Ann recognized an untapped market for impact investment & philanthropy that transcends traditional practices. Their aspiration was to empower those focused on impact & philanthropists to create immediate, transformative change

through US donor-advised funds, flexible investments, and foundations. Thus, Return on Good was born with a singular mission: to be the premier strategic partner for those who wish to return good to the world and leave behind a legacy of impact through philanthropic gifts or investments in ESG.

Return on Good’s three focus areas are:

1. Strategic Philanthropic Planninghelping Family Offices align their vision and values and philanthropic dollars to return the most good.

2. Impact Investing- helping for-profit businesses focused on the social good to align with investors, raise funds and build their marketing infrastructure.

3. Non-Profits- helping non-profit organizations to develop marketing and fundraising strategy and structure to raise donated dollars.

Empowering Strategic Philanthropic Planning

At the heart of Return on Good's mission lies strategic philanthropic planning—a key pillar that allows clients to align their values with a comprehensive, long-term approach to giving. Drawing from Ann's personal experience of aligning her family's philanthropic efforts, Return on Good guides clients in fostering deep connections among family members and stakeholders. By revealing core values and aspirations, they create a foundation for lasting impact across generations.

Furthermore, Return on Good offers bespoke guidance to family offices after significant liquidity events or when seeking to make targeted impact in specific areas. This personalized approach allows clients to navigate the complexities of strategic giving with a clear vision and a deep sense of purpose.

The Confluence of Impact Investment and Nonprofits

As the philanthropic landscape evolves, Return on Good recognizes the seamless blending of impact investment and nonprofits—a trend that is gaining momentum. By connecting with innovative organizations including medical technology ventures, innovative apps including group therapeutics and mental health, cyber security & risk assessment innovation, and unique tech funds Return on Good helps clients discover opportunities to return good to the world in impactful ways with a significant return on their investment financially and socially.

Through strategic partnerships with a deep network of personal connections along with deep relationships in the family office space, Return on Good ensures clients are equipped to make a lasting difference. Their expertise as seasoned relationship builders, business partners, and digital sales and marketing executives enable them to define and bring brands to life, attracting the right investors and guiding clients through successful investments and fundraising campaigns.

Success Stories that Transform Lives

Witnessing the transformative impact of Return on Good's endeavors is a testament to their mission's success and the majority of their impact investments are in ESG focused on technology and apps. ROG is selective in who they work with so to ensure their values and expertise are a match. By tapping into their marketing savvy, they have created marketing strategies to attract investors for innovative medical technology companies such as, Lumicell, which detects residual cancer cells that were left behind after surgery and WellnessWits, a group therapeutics app offering whole-person solutions for chronic disease care and prevention which can transform lives and create a lasting ripple effect. A new London based client Mettle brings to the table a one-of-a-kind Mental Health App for men co-founded by Bear Grylls and endorsed by Dr. Alex George. Return on Good’s portfolio of Impact Investment opportunities is uniquely curated to only companies that the partners would personally invest in. This is unique in that the firm is focused on tremendous success for every

partner that they suggest to the marketplace as an impact investment opportunity.

The ROI for every client is uniquely tailored to their goals, whether it's raising millions for a new building, a tech platform, the opportunity to scale globally or securing essential capital for future ventures. Return on Good's unwavering commitment to achieving client intentions reflects their ability to craft solutions that change the world.

Charting a Visionary Path Ahead

Return on Good's future holds a kaleidoscope of inspiring possibilities. Their goal is to become the go-to resource for all things impact investment, aligning investment portfolios with charitable giving, and guiding individuals and organizations towards the path of profound change. From attending influential conferences, such as 'The Future

of Everything' and London Family Footprints Office Events, Return on Good continues to expand its horizons and build a network of trailblazers committed to making a difference.

The core of their business is driven by intentional scale. Return on Good partner, Jay has curated The Wisdom Council which consists of an extensive network of experts in the market who have deep experience in a variety of verticals. This includes a gentleman who specializes in social good and impact projects, primarily with water sources. And another member is a science and philanthropy advisor who worked at the Gates Foundation, a CFO from a top family office, and other deep talent sources who provide perspective to projects. Through this network they can support and deliver on those projects and return good to the world in meaningful ways that are measurable and impactful.

ROG partner Lumicell, Illuminating Residual Breast Cancer in Real Time, Boston, MA

A World of Curated Impact Philanthropy Awaits

As the world witnesses the birth of a new era in philanthropy and impact investment, Return on Good leads the way with a visionary approach and strategic partnerships .Returnon Good’s unique advantage comes from their incredible network across industries and countries, their deep relationships in the family office space, digital marketing prowess, ,and significant partnerships and connections with social good companies and non-profits so that they can curate a unique strategy for their partners that provides the most impact in realization to their clients impact investment projects and philanthropic goals. With an unwavering commitment to changing lives and fostering positive change, Return on Good embodies the true essence of curated impact investment and strategy philanthropy—the journey towards a brighter and better world for all.

Returnongood.org

ROG partner Womxn of Wealth (501c-3) Moving Women from financial literacy to fluency and mastery, Los Angeles, CA Co-founders Jennifer Burnham-Grubbs & AdaPia D'Errico

ROG partner Wellness Wits, a Group Therapeutics Platform unique to Healthcare, Houston, TX

From Architectural Consultant to Real Estate Mogul THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF CAGRI KANVER

Aspiring architects often dream of designing iconic structures that leave a lasting impact on the world. However, for Cagri Kanver, a successful real estate developer with Turkish roots, his journey began with a realization that numbers play a pivotal role in shaping the future of architecture. Cagri Kanver delves into his remarkable career trajectory, his family office investments, life philosophy, and the valuable life lessons he instills in his daughter.

By Hillary Latos

How It All Began: Architectural Insights

Cagri Kanver's journey in the world of real estate development started with an architectural consulting career. Drawing from his Turkish roots and international perspective, he was involved in designing large-scale campuses in emerging markets worldwide, including university campuses, Oil and Gas compounds, and large hospitals. During this phase, he noticed a fundamental aspect that significantly impacted design choices: numbers. The right numbers meant clients would avoid unnecessary expenses, making space analysis crucial to align design visions with practical realities.

This invaluable experience led him to a transition that would define his future success and cement his position in the real estate industry.

Transitioning from Architecture to Real Estate Development

Recognizing that architecture was just one part of the real estate lifecycle, Cagri advises young architects not to give up on their studies and education. He highlights that within the vast realm of real estate, opportunities abound for various roles, including developers,

brokers, contractors, and more. In 2008 when the economy took a hit, Cagri decided to leave his job at Deloitte in Chicago to travel between the US and Turkey where he found himself navigating large scale projects for the Ministry of Urban Planning. This marked the beginning of his journey into real estate development, as he collaborated with developers, investors, and contractors to bundle real estate strategies with the right teams for successful projects. Cagri's exceptional expertise, combined with his Turkish background and overseas connections, soon brought him to invest in real estate development projects in New York, followed by Miami. These endeavors set the stage for the establishment of his new office in Miami's Design District, set to open this September.

A Vision for Miami's Design District

Miami's Design District was in need of high-quality construction, and Cagri seized this opportunity by bringing overseas talent to the US markets. Leveraging his connections in Turkey, he sourced premium Turkish materials such as ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, marble, stone, granite, millwork, kitchen and bathroom cabinets, custom furniture, and office furniture. Not only does this ensure top-notch

construction quality, but it also opens up exciting opportunities for Turkish vendors to promote their products through the Miami office.

Diversifying Ventures: El Turco and Watermark Investments

Cagri's philosophy of diversification and seizing opportunities is evident in his successful ventures beyond real estate development. El Turco, an endeavor in the culinary world, brought the flavors of Turkish cuisine to East Hampton and Miami, proving to be a hit and leading to the establishment of a catering service in both the Hamptons from May to October and Miami from October to May. Beyond that, he co-founded Watermark Investments, a multi family office LP that invests in various assets across a variety of price brackets nationwide. Their strategy revolves around ground-up projects and partnerships with reliable developers, ensuring good income and diversity in their portfolio. To date they have 13 projects nationwide- rental buildings in Oklahoma, Chicago, and Brooklyn, a logistics center, doctor's offices, an office campus in Tampa, Bay, all of which have been highly profitable and successful ventures.

As a father, Cagri is passionate about providing the best for his daughter. Though he learned everything on the streets, including soccer which led to a position on the national soccer team, he recognizes the need to study in school and learn by the books. He

instills in his daughter the importance of perseverance and hard work, just as he had done when pursuing his dreams in the US. Encouraging her to learn by the book, his sixteen year old daughter has excelled in various pursuits, including mastering Mandarin since she was 3 and passing the most difficult test given in the US, and participating in diverse activities like scuba diving and sailing.

Cagri's own journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur and community leader exemplifies the opportunities available in this country. He believes that hard work, dedication, and a willingness to embrace opportunities are the keys to success.

“I arrived here in 1996 and this country gave me an identity and put me on the map. I needed to follow the rules and be more successful by working hard. It’s extremely important for people to know that this country gives opportunities to people as long as you're ready to grab it. I came with a dream and enough change for dinner. And now I own a restaurant and real estate investments,” Cagri expressed.

As Cagri Kanver continues to make significant strides in the real estate world and beyond, his dedication to his roots and his commitment to inspiring others stand as testaments to his remarkable journey. His new office in Miami's Design District is just another chapter in a story of success that started with architectural insights and has grown into an empire of diverse ventures and thriving projects.

GREENLIGHT GROUP Pioneering Climate Tech Investments with a Nordic Focus

In the ever-evolving landscape of climate technology investments, Greenlight Group has emerged as a prominent player, driven by the visionary leadership of Karl Andersen and a keen focus on Nordic Climate Technology companies. Delving into the renewable energy sector, Greenlight capitalizes on Norway's remarkable strides in sustainable practices.

By Hillary Latos

Norway, an oil-rich nation comparable to Texas, took a decisive step towards a greener future in 2015, making significant investments in renewables. As a result, an impressive 98% of Norway's energy is now hydroelectric, signaling a successful shift away from fossil fuels.

Andersen, a forward-thinking trailblazer, recognized the potential of Norway's renewable energy endeavors and now directs Greenlight's investments towards the thriving Nordic Climate Technology sector, particularly in Norway. From solar and offshore wind technologies to electric vehicles (EVs), Norway serves as an exemplary model for combating climate change. Andersen's vision is not only about generating profits but also about making a positive impact on the planet.

THE BENEFITS OF INVESTING IN THE GREENLIGHT GROUP FUND:

Proven Success: Greenlight's strategic investment approach has already yielded impressive results. Established in 2021, they target growth equity and latestage venture companies with a solid business model and significant purchase orders from key clients, the group has achieved returns of 2-3 times the initial investment, with some portfolio companies projecting growth up to 10-12 times.

Insider Knowledge: With Norway's advanced renewable energy market serving as a testing ground, Greenlight gains invaluable insights into what works and what doesn't in the climate tech arena. As an early adopter, Greenlight has an edge in identifying scalable technologies and successful commercialization strategies.

Expanded Services: Beyond traditional financial support, Greenlight goes the extra mile by providing insurance and reinsurance to its portfolio companies. This value-added service not only enhances risk management for the invested firms but also generates additional returns for the fund.

Monetizing Carbon Credits: Greenlight further solidifies its commitment to sustainability by actively monetizing carbon credits. This forward-thinking approach ensures that environmental impact and profitability go hand in hand, offering

investors a unique opportunity to align their financial goals with a greener future.

Innovative Market Insights: Greenlight Group boasts a remarkable geolocation advantage, accessing a treasure trove of cutting-edge deal flow from the forwardthinking Nordic region. This insider knowledge helps investors stay ahead of the curve and participate in the next big breakthroughs in climate technology.

GREENLIGHT'S DISTINCTIVE APPROACH:

Holistic Approach: Greenlight Group offers a complete ecosystem for climate tech investments. From identifying scalable companies to providing insurance, reinsurance, and carbon credit monetization services, Greenlight ensures a comprehensive and seamless investment experience.

Strategic Collaborations: Greenlight cultivates strategic partnerships with corporates and family offices, tapping into their industry expertise, distribution networks, and market connections. This collaborative approach enriches both the fund's offerings and the overall climate tech landscape.

Focus on Risk Mitigation: Offering insurance and reinsurance to portfolio companies, Greenlight proactively addresses risk management, setting them apart from traditional investment firms. This comprehensive approach appeals to forward-thinking investors seeking long-term sustainability.

Visionary Leadership: Under Karl Andersen's visionary leadership, Greenlight Group aligns financial objectives with climate solutions. Their unwavering commitment to solving climate challenges, coupled with strategic planning, positions them as industry pioneers.

BUILDING THE FUTURE:

Greenlight Group is more than just an investment fund; it is an engine for driving positive change. One of their notable endeavors is constructing advanced energy management systems for a large chain of pharmaceuticals. This innovative system enables seamless incorporation of various renewable energy technologies, such as wind and solar.

By geo mapping all the locations, Greenlight determines the optimal integration of solar and wind energy sources and even battery packs, similar to Norway's successful model. The system empowers CFOs to analyze inputs from wind, solar, and hydro to determine their bottom-line impact, propelling businesses towards sustainable practices while achieving financial gains.

Moreover, the energy management system in use in Norway showcases the impressive potential of solar energy. By tracking the sun's movements, assessing its connection to the grid, and implementing grid trading, the system transforms energy into a profit center. Landowners are empowered to become power producers in the burgeoning electric economy, further driving sustainability.

Greenlight Group stands at the forefront of the climate tech revolution, weaving sustainable finance into profitable investments. Drawing inspiration from Norway's renewable energy achievements, Greenlight is committed to fostering a greener future while generating returns for its investors. With a holistic approach, strategic collaborations, and a strong focus on sustainability, Greenlight Group is setting new standards in climate tech investments and shaping a more sustainable world.

www.greenlightgroup.io

DR NICHOLAS PERRICONE Hydrogen, Health and Healing

By Amy Poliakoff

“My belief has been in examining inflammation from the time I was a medical student. It governs the way I approached my career in changing health through diet and nutrition. It has allowed for an understanding and power of healing through combating and changing inflammation in one’s body,” said Dr. Nicholas Perricone.

Having forged a legendary career as one of the leading dermatologists in the United States, Perricone founded Perricone MD, a global cosmeceutical and nutraceutical company, whose innovative technology inventions and discoveries continue to make improvements on society. Perricone’s skin care products and treatments focus on combating anti-aging and disease through managing inflammation.

Through extensive research on the energy portion of the Hydrogen molecule, Perricone realized how vital the element was for the body and especially the fight against inflammation, which is known to cause disease and aging. Through his studies, Perricone noticed that the energy from a Hydrogen molecule went into human cells and into the mitochondria to make energy. This led him to produce his Perricone Hydrogen Water. Energy levels just 15 minutes after drinking the Hydrogen packed water increase and provide invigorations for all. According to Perricone, it is important to look at the C reactive protein when doing bloodwork. With a Master’s in Nutrition, Perricone recognizes that an anti-inflammatory diet along with his hydrogen water can lead to a drop in high C reactive protein numbers. High C reactive protein numbers measure the amount of inflammation in your body and with higher numbers one is at risk for heart disease, neurological decline, arthritis etc. Perricone Hydrogen water, a smart antioxidant, can really help society through increasing an individual’s health of life span.

Perricone has been educated as an expert physician having completed medical school in just three years in Michigan. Completing his internship in pediatrics at Yale Medical School and his Dermatology residency at Ford Medical Center, Perricone is a passionate physician but his interest in science led him to explore the power of Hydrogen not only in health, but in healing for the environment.

“Hydrogen is a unique molecule. I have always wanted to work with Hydrogen in additional areas other than inflammation and medicine. I wanted to identify areas of energy where Hydrogen is incorporated and how it can be used. It makes up 73% of the universe by weight and is the first molecule created in the universe. We talk about ATP in our cells and that ATP is made by hydrogen. Hydrogen is the universal fuel for our bodies and our health. There is a total unified theme about hydrogen in this world even the stars are run by hydrogen,” said Perricone.

With a strong interest in science not just healthcare, Perricone’s passion has led him to develop the hydrogen energy patent, one of 200 patents under his Perriquest Defense Research Enterprise. The Perriquest Defense Research Enterprise is his organization with a leadership team of scholars who have PHD’s and provide technical solutions to address emerging threats against the American public and our military forces. With his newest patent, his unique use of hydrogen energy will be the source for new ways of ground transportation, air transportation, heating homes and running factories through clean energy use. Perricone’s patent is his custom idea implemented through pumping electromagnetic energy into

hydrogen gas. Once that energy is loaded, you create a process whereby that energy upon its release will have 75 percent more energy than if the hydrogen was burned. It will also be four times as much energy as the equivalent in gasoline. With this process, there are no emissions, and it is reusable becoming hydrogen once again.

With automobiles, you can now push the hydrogen into the car engine, and it will flow into the cylinder. Perricone’s device will pump energy into the hydrogen and then release the hydrogen in turn moving the pistons which will move the car. In looking at the exhaust cycle, pure hydrogen will be released, so instead of sending it out of the exhaust cycle, pure hydrogen travels into the intake manifold and back into the pistons. No oxidation of hydrogen happens. Perricone creates enough electrical energy to pump the energy in allowing for only a very small tank of hydrogen gas needed to run a vehicle. With this new wave of technology, cars can travel many more miles without having to refuel.

“With this patent, hydrogen producing factories around the world will be reduced or not needed because we are cutting down the usage by 99 percent. We will

be reusing the hydrogen and just creating electromagnetic energy. I am very excited about this, and we have the patent. It is a clean reusable energy,” said Perricone.

Through the exploration, study, and multiuse of hydrogen, Perricone has helped to improve the health of society and the healing of our environment. As a physician, author, scientist, educator, philanthropist and award-winning inventor, Dr. Nicholas Perricone has solidified himself as a brilliant scholar who pioneered The Inflammation – Aging- Disease Hypothesis which takes a deep look into anti-inflammatory methods to combat illness and aging. A recipient of the Eli Whitney Intellectual Property Award, Perricone has no intention of slowing down. Developing patents across numerous sectors including pharmacology, aerospace and medicine, he continues to develop his passions for medicine and science. Perricone is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. His New York Times Best Sellers include: The Wrinkle Cure, The Perricone Perscription, The Perricone Promise and Forever Young. With a true commitment to health and healing, Perricone understands that Hydrogen is our future.

Funding the Future of Healthcare ONE AI SOLUTION AT A TIME

Dr. Ronald Razmi has been a fixture in the healthcare innovation scene for a long time. As a medical resident at the Mayo Clinic, he was developing technologies that could improve the management of cardiac patients. Later as a cardiologist, he was one of the pioneers in the use of MRI imaging in improving the care of patients with heart disease. He developed a software platform that accelerated the use of this technology across the globe. He cowrote the book “Handbook of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging.”

By Hillary Latos

After a few years of working as a McKinsey consultant where he advised Venture Capital and Private Equity firms in investing in medical innovation, he launched a digital health company to address the thorny issue of population health management. Combining medical data, software, and artificial intelligence, the Acupera platform enabled medical providers to proactively address key health issues in patients with chronic diseases. By identifying medical problems before they led to an ER visit or hospitalization, patient outcomes can be improved and costs significantly reduced.

Realizing the transformational powers of AI in improving health, he is now focused in ensuring that this transformation happens as completely and quickly as possible. He launched Zoi Capital in 2022 to invest in the most promising health AI companies across the world. Realizing that many of the innovators and investors in healthcare spend time and resources developing AI solutions with little chance of adoption, he has authored a book that lays out a roadmap for the future of AI in healthcare.

"AI Doctor: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare" (Wiley, 2023) will be released later this year and will aim to serve as a guide for investors, innovators, and healthcare providers. This book examines the drivers and barriers of AI technologies in healthcare and why so many well-funded and promising companies never gain traction in the real world. He examines the short-, medium-, and long-term use cases for investments. The book lays out a blueprint that the entrepreneurs and investors can use when making decisions about building and funding these technologies. He also writes a weekly blog (AI Doctor blog) that examines the latest developments in this space.

After spending the last two decades as a cardiologist, consultant, entrepreneur, and now investor, Ron has a unique perspective on how healthcare can be improved. He credits the astounding progress made over

the last century in improving life expectancy and other health measures to the industrial revolution. It allowed creation of wealth and expertise that led to funding and performing medical research. The next few decades hold even greater promise for progress and AI will be the foundational technology that will make much of that possible.

Although investment and company formation in healthcare AI has dramatically increased in the last few years, most of the solutions commercialized to date have not seen much adoption. Ron attributes this to the complexity of healthcare compared to other industries, lack of the cross-functional expertise required to invest in the right solutions, and an antiquated existing technology infrastructure. There has been progress over the last decade in upgrading the digital technologies in healthcare and that progress has the set the stage for faster adoption of AI solutions in the coming years. "The solutions that will gain traction solve mission-critical needs, have a light implementation roadmap, and have access to a reliable flow of data" he says.

With Zoi Capital, Ron sees an opportunity to shape and accelerate the coming revolution of AI in healthcare. "Future of health is extremely bright. People will receive preventive and convenient care at a fraction of the cost. But the road to get there will be bumpy and picking the winners requires insider knowledge and expertise". While writing AI Doctor, he realized that sourcing the best deals and conducting due diligence in this emerging sector required a novel approach. As such, Zoi capital has been built on a foundation of assets and workflows especially designed to find the subset of health AI companies that meet a stringent set of criteria. "Ensuring that capital flows to the right health AI companies is the best way to ensure this bright future happens sooner rather than later."

For more information contact: ron@zoicap.com

BEYOND FINANCE

Looking Ahead to Blockchain's Diverse and Transformational Impact

Blockchain, once confined to its role in powering cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has evolved significantly since its inception. In recent years, blockchain has gained recognition as a revolutionary technology with the potential to transform not only the finance industry but a myriad of other sectors. In 2023, the applications and use cases of blockchain are poised to expand even further, solving real-world problems and reshaping economies.

By Nisa Amoils

supply chain management solutions that leverage blockchain to enhance visibility and trust in supply chain operations. For instance, their blockchain-based platform enables end-to-end tracking of goods, from the point of origin to the final destination, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.

Healthcare

Refi, or regenerative finance, is emerging as a groundbreaking concept that leverages crypto rails to rebuild economies in a more inclusive and sustainable manner. The most dominant ReFi sector for climate has been tied to bringing more transparency to the $270 billion global carbon offset market. Carbon offsets have long been questioned regarding the credibility of the actual claims made by carbon originators and the offset buyers. While standards have been introduced to help create more accountability in the sector, there remains healthy skepticism in the public domain. We are starting to see greenshoots of ReFi that go way beyond base-layer blockchains and carbon offsets. Every industry and consumer activity has some kind of climate impact and ReFi projects are emerging to tackle these challenges on crypto rails.

Supply Chain Management

In 2023, we can expect to see increased adoption of blockchain-based solutions for supply chain transparency, traceability, and accountability. Blockchain can create an immutable and transparent ledger of transactions, which can be used to track the movement of goods and verify their authenticity at each stage of the supply chain. This can help in reducing fraud, counterfeiting, and unauthorized modifications to the supply chain data. Jaiinfoway, a leading blockchain solution provider, has developed innovative

Another area where blockchain is expected to make significant strides in 2023 is the healthcare industry. With the increasing need for data privacy and security in healthcare, blockchain can provide a decentralized and secure way to store, manage, and share health records. Blockchain-based health record systems can enable patients to have control over their health data, while also ensuring that the data is tamper-proof and accessible only to authorized parties. These solutions can improve data interoperability, patient privacy, and overall healthcare outcomes.

Digital Identity

Digital identity management, a challenge for traditional systems, is finding a potential solution in blockchain. Traditional identity management systems are often centralized and vulnerable to data breaches and identity theft. Blockchain-based digital identity systems can provide a decentralized and secure way to manage and verify identities, reducing the risks associated with data breaches and identity fraud. In 2023, we can expect to see increased adoption of blockchain-based digital identity solutions in various sectors, including finance, government, and e-commerce.

Real Estate/Title

Real estate is another industry where blockchain is showing promise as a disruptive technology. In 2023, we can expect to see increased adoption of blockchain in real estate transactions, property management, and land registry. Blockchain can provide a transparent and secure way to record property ownership, transfer assets, and verify property-related documents. This can streamline the real estate transaction process, reduce fraud, and increase trust among buyers, sellers, and other stakeholders. These solutions can simplify complex real estate processes, increase

transparency, and reduce the risks associated with property transactions.

Energy

With the increasing need for renewable energy and the transition towards a more decentralized energy grid, blockchain can play a crucial role in optimizing energy production, distribution, and consumption. One of the key applications of blockchain in the energy sector is peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading. Blockchain can enable direct energy trading between consumers, allowing them to buy and sell excess energy generated from their renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to their neighbors or other users in the network. This can create a more efficient and decentralized energy market, where consumers have more control over their energy usage and can benefit from the economic incentives of selling excess energy. Blockchain can also be used for energy grid management and grid optimization. Blockchain can create a transparent and immutable ledger of energy transactions, which can help grid operators to better manage the energy flow, optimize energy production and distribution, and reduce energy wastage. Smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts encoded on the blockchain, can automate energy transactions, such as energy billing, grid management, and demand-response programs.

Renewable energy certificate (REC) markets are another area where blockchain can bring transparency and traceability. RECs are tradable certificates that represent the environmental attributes of renewable energy generation. Blockchain can create a transparent and tamper-proof ledger of RECs, ensuring that the certificates are genuine and can be traced back to their source of generation. This can increase transparency in the renewable energy market and provide incentives for renewable energy producers to generate more clean energy.

As we embark on a new era of blockchain applications, 2023 holds tremendous potential for the finance industry and beyond. This transformative technology is set to reshape economies, establish unprecedented transparency, and unlock innovative solutions to address real-world challenges. With blockchain as a driving force, businesses must remain vigilant and agile in embracing these groundbreaking opportunities.

Nisa Amoils is a venture capital investor, securities lawyer, a Board Member and media commentator.

Refi

Photography by Udo Spreitzenbarth

ANTHONY SCARAMUCCI

From Wall Street to Crypto, Embracing Web3,

and

Navigating Political Waves

Anthony Scaramucci suddenly soared into a household name in 2017 – serving as the no-holds-barred White House Director of Communications under President Donald Trump for just eleven days. But long before his stint in the political limelight, he was a well-known Wall Street with a knack for thinking outside-the-box risk-taking and subsequently reaping deep-pocketed rewards.

“I’ve been a liquor investor, a hoard spirits investor, and I’m an investor in something called Whipshots with Cardi B,” Scaramucci, the founder and managing partner of global alternative investment firm SkyBridge, and founder and chairman of SALT, an international thought leadership forum and venture studio, says energetically of the flavored, alcohol-infused whip cream. “And I own a piece of a Balinese rum that is about to enter the U.S. market. It is as potent as any other rum but a little less sweet.”

Yet that is hardly where the avid entrepreneur’s perchance for a good time ends. Scaramucci also owns midtown Manhattan’s popular wheeling-anddealing “The Hunt and Fish Club” and recently opened a satellite restaurant at LaGuardia airport, with plans to expand into JFK. In his words, it all stems from a personal love to “tinker with new things.”

By Hollie McKay

The 59-year-old, now-father-of-five and lifelong Long Islander was born and raised in a middle-class, Italian-American family in the hamlet of Port Washington. The son of a sand mine crane operator, Scaramucci was the first of his generation to attend college. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Tufts University and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School – his time there briefly overlapped with that of future President Barack Obama – the wildly-ambitious financier embarked on an illustrious career as a private wealth manager at Goldman Sachs before co-founding investment partnership form Oscar Capital Management, which sold in 2001 to Neuberger Berman.

In 2005, Scaramucci brought SkyBridge Capital to life (where he remains a managing partner and rebuffs the exhaustive label of a conventional CEO) leading the firm

into the multibillion-dollar value sphere, specializing in investments and assets falling outside traditional categories. With that zest for innovation in mind, Scaramucci became one of the earliest and proudest adopters of cryptocurrency and its underlying technology known as Blockchain and was last year ranked number 47 in Cointelegraph’s Top 100 Influencers in the space.

The affiliation came with riding high as crypto soared in 2020 and 2021, followed by a meteoric crash in 2022 – amplified by the bankruptcy of crypto exchange and hedge fund FTX and the criminal charges levied by the U.S. government against disgraced founder Sam Bankerman-Fried, someone with whom Scaramucci closed deals, deemed a “visionary” and once considered a friend. Further, 2023 has brought about a string of controversial lawsuits against other major exchanges by the U.S. Securities Exchange

Commission (SEC); thus, one would hardly blame the SkyBridge maven for wiping his hands of the volatile decentralized financial system; only his faith remains unwavering.

“We looked incredibly smart in 2021, and we obviously looked very stupid in 2022. But the cryptocurrency markets, particularly Bitcoin, are up approximately 80 percent this year. So, it has been a good recovery year for us,” Scaramucci continues with an almost infectious enthusiasm. “If you’re an investor in crypto, depending on the day or that moment, you look very stupid or very smart. But we’re holding (out) long-term, despite the regulatory turmoil, uncertainty, and market volatility.”

He has his eye on the emerging gaming arena – with a particular passion for Vulcan Forged, a blockchain-based play-to-earn crypto game – as well as its cohorts known as the metaverse and the next evolution of the internet collectively termed “Web3.”

In basic terms, Web3 is a world wide web owned and dictated by users rather than the conglomerates. While Big Tech – Amazon, Google, and Facebook (now Meta), to name

For me, it is the can-do and the unwillingness to fail. I have failed a number of times in my career. But I’m not willing to give up.

open-source protocols, fixed webpages, sluggish and megabyte-heavy downloads, basic messenger and little else in the realm of real-time interactions. The past two decades have brought about the emergence of Web2, igniting an epoch of multimedia and social media, dynamic interactions, advanced gaming, and the rise of Silicon Valley on our desks and inside our pockets.

However, the Web3 cosmos is likely a linking of the community-directed mindset of Web1 with the modern advancements of Web2 and much, much more.

a few – dominate the current internet landscape, controlling what content can be pushed, promoted, prohibited, and passed along, Web3 leans on decentralized blockchain technology to eliminate the intermediator and put users back in the driver’s seat. It is also a natural progression of technological advancement. Web1 was the internet we learned in the 1990s and the early years of the eponymous Y2K, brought to life by laborious dial-up connections,

“There is going to be a big opportunity here for the metaverse. We think one of the cutting-edge ideas in gaming is play-toearn (style of) gaming. We think we’re in the investment industry, but we’re actually in the fashion industry – the skirts go up and down, the styles change,” Scaramucci explains. “And so, one minute, we’re hot on biotechnology; the next, we’re hot on artificial intelligence. I’m old enough to remember Web1, which was a huge mania until it wasn’t. Cryptocurrency was a huge mania, and now it isn’t. If you look at long-term trends and long-term growth, we love gaming; we love Web3 gaming.”

But ultimately, Scaramucci’s recipe for success boils down to patience, and following his nose – and numbers – when it comes to growth.

“We would like growth. And so, we’re probably willing to pay more on an earnings per share basis or from a revenue or an event basis if we see something with huge growth and scalability capability. In the case of something like Vulcan Forged, they had probably 25,000 users on our gaming platform when I made that investment. Now they have over 200,000. We think that they can easily get to a million users over the next couple of years,” he conjectures. “In the case of Bitcoin, there were 80 million wallets for Bitcoin when I made the first investment in October 2020. There are now 340 million wallets. And as the wallets go up, the demand for Bitcoin goes up. There is a lot of scalability; there’s a lot of price performance and opportunity ahead.”

The second criterion for making an investment decision comes down to whether or not the prospect embodies grit and a no-failure ethos.

“For me, it is the can-do and the unwillingness to fail. I have failed a number of times in my career. But I’m not willing to give up,” Scaramucci surmises. “Can you hang in there when bad things are happening? Can you change your plan? Can I demonstrate resilience in the marketplace? That is a huge thing for us when we’re investing in companies, early stage or late-stage companies, or even the hedge fund managers that we put our money with.”

Thirdly, and perhaps the most challenging for all involved, is the ability to avoid touching the investment even in the face of cliental pressure and falling chips.

“If you just hang in there, and you buy really good fundamentals, you’re going to ultimately be right; that’s our opinion. This is sort of a crazy statement to make, but the bestperforming accounts at Charles Schwab are the dead people. They own good assets and sit on those assets,” Scaramucci emphasizes.

Perhaps another undeniable key to this New Yorker’s prosperity is not allowing the heavily spouted fears of political catastrophe to hamper his energy to keep moving forward. Scaramucci is confident that inflation numbers are decreasing and that the introduction of technology – think AI automotive vehicles and self-driving robots – will continue this promising, descending trend. He also admits to being “indifferent” to the brewing worries this year that lawmakers would fail to raise the debt ceiling and subsequently default on its debt, knowing full well that the U.S. would never risk such an economic cataclysm.

“That didn’t affect my investment judgment. I guess the broader question that everyone should be asking themselves is, what is the United States going to do to fix the deficit problem, fix the entitlement problem in the country, fix the infrastructure problem, which we’re so sorely lacking in infrastructure? And the short answer is we don’t have politicians with the political will to lay out for the American people,” he asserts. “We have a two-minute plan. We have a cable news fighting plan and a tribal ‘let’s split the Republic and do damage to each other’ plan. But we don’t have this unified plan.”

While remaining fiercely patriotic and rightof-center, Scaramucci himself seemingly has no immediate plans to step back into the political fray. But being that charismatic, brimming-with-confidence New York money man he is, Scaramucci can’t help but express an opinion – or two – as the 2024 Presidential election gains steam.

“I’m a lifelong Republican. I supported Donald Trump in 2016. When I thought he was going off the rails and threatening the democracy, I withdrew my support because I’m more of a patriot than I am a partisan, so I will support the Republican nominee,” he adds. “If it’s DeSantis, Christie, or Haley, or you pick somebody, I will support them. But if it’s Donald Trump, I won’t support him because I worked for him, so I know how nuts he is. This (election) is a rough and tumble. But I guess I’ll talk about investing and stay out of politics…”

Well, at least for now.

From Aspiring Artist to Art Market Mogul THE JOURNEY OF SIMON DE PURY

Simon de Pury, a prominent figure in the art world, has become a name synonymous with auctions, art dealing, curation, and advising. However, his path to success began with a desire to become an artist himself, studying Japanese brush painting. Although he didn't achieve greatness in his artistic pursuits, it ignited a passion for the art world that would lead him on a remarkable journey.

"I grew up in Basel, Switzerland, where some of the world's leading art dealers were based at the time," de Pury recalls. "I sought advice from one of them, and it became the turning point that led me into the art market. Later, I joined Sotheby's, and I have been active in this dynamic world for many years now."

With his vast experience, de Pury keenly observes the current opportunities in the art world, pointing to its global nature and the emergence of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) as significant game-changers. "The art market has truly gone global, with collectors from all corners of the world," he says. "NFTs have made a big impact, capturing attention when one NFT sold for $69 million. Moreover, artists now have countless ways to express themselves, incorporating new technologies and reviving timeless techniques like oil and canvas, sculptures, ceramics, and textiles."

As social media takes center stage in promoting emerging artists, de Pury cautions that while it can bring instant fame, it is crucial for artists and collectors to consider the long-term prospects of an artist's career.

By Hillary Latos

"Social media can turn artists into shooting stars overnight, but it's not always sustainable. Similar to a wave that develops it can also come crashing down, yet something remains from the wave." he explains. "As collectors, we need to be cautious and identify artists whose work will endure beyond fleeting trends."

When it comes to investing in art, de Pury advises collectors to focus on artists who have already garnered recognition on an international level. "Investing in established artists with a proven track record increases the chances of future appreciation," he suggests.

As an avid art collector himself, de Pury emphasizes the importance of conducting thorough research before acquiring a piece. "While some artworks may instantly captivate you, you must also consider rational points such as the artist's international appeal, the volume of their work in the market, and the potential for future value growth," he adds.

Turning to the topic of freeports, de Pury explains how these tax-free zones offer a convenient solution for collectors

with multiple homes across different jurisdictions. "Freeports provide a secure space for storing artworks until collectors decide where they want to house their acquisitions permanently, thus postponing the import duties," he clarifies.

Recently, de Pury launched his latest auction platform, de-pury.com which hosts online primary market auctions. These auctions are curated by de Pury himself, focusing on different themes and featuring artists and galleries who consign their works. Notably, 100% of the hammer price goes directly to the artists and galleries, with a buyer's premium and a portion of the proceeds allocated to a relevant charity. Additionally, Simon acknowledges the importance of digital platforms in democratizing access to art, providing a wider audience with opportunities to engage with a diverse range of artistic expressions. The integration of technology into the art world is not only an avenue for innovation but also a means to preserve and disseminate artistic heritage for future generations.

Photo by Gary Morrisroe

Intriguingly, de Pury has introduced an element of fun and entertainment into his online auctions by creating an avatar of himself to conduct the proceedings. "I wanted these auctions to maintain the excitement of live auctions while embracing the potential of technology," he explains.

On the convergence of technology and art, de Pury is optimistic about the positive impact of blockchain technology on the art market, particularly in terms of transparency and provenance. He also sees potential in the digitization of physical art, offering collectors new ways to experience and engage with their collections.

As the conversation delves into the driving forces behind soaring art prices, de Pury emphasizes “Art is the only true legacy that a human person can leave. When you look at great achievements of great figures in the past, at the end of the day, the only ones who outlast everything else are those who made great cultural achievements. So having access to art and being able to acquire the best is something that will go on driving us.” However, he cautions collectors to stay vigilant and be mindful of changing tastes within the art market to invest smartly. When asked about his favorite artists at the moment, de Pury reveals that he values collecting artists in-depth and highlights the enduring significance of Picasso and Warhol. "

Photo by Luc Castel

Photo by Elizabeth Zeschin

Photo by Luc Castel

Photo by Elizabeth Zeschin

The timelessness of art is magic because we all look to find something that is eternal and doesn't fade away.

When you follow contemporary art, the great thing is that you can follow their development in real time. The most exciting part is that you don't have the distance that time gives you because when you buy later, it's easier and you can make more informed decisions. The true adventure is to follow what's happening right now because art never stops in the same way that music never stops," he remarks.

In his role as an art advisor, de Pury encourages clients to focus on the intrinsic quality and originality of an artwork rather than succumbing to fleeting trends and investigate its potential to become timeless. “The timelessness of art is magic because we all look to find something that is eternal and doesn't fade away,” de Pury adds. He also shares anecdotes of exhilarating moments as an auctioneer, drawing parallels between conducting auctions and DJing, where attunement to the audience's mood is key.

Among the myriad masterpieces that have left an indelible impression on de Pury's heart, one contemporary abstract work by Goya hanging at the Prado Museum moves him to his core. The emotional portrayal of a dog's head amid abstract motifs captures the essence of art's emotive power, reminding us of the timeless allure of artistic expression.

Simon de Pury's journey from aspiring artist to influential figure in the art world is a testament to his enduring passion and love of art. As the art market continues to evolve and embrace new technologies, de Pury's expertise and enthusiasm will undoubtedly shape the future of art for generations to come. www.de-pury.com

Photo by Gary Morrisroe

ROGER BROWN

Capturing the American Dream in Art

By Michael Klein

20 years ago, I was the first in-house curator for the Microsoft Corporation, tasked with curating and professionalizing their art collection. Previously, a volunteer group of employees with little art expertise managed the 4,500 works based solely on personal preferences.

My mission there was to identify undervalued artists who were not yet in the spotlight, but whose body of work had already earned them a strong reputation. The acquisitions were also international. My list included Daniel Buren; Joan Mitchell; Julian Opie; Peter Schuyff and Robert Bechtle. One of my early acquisitions, a Roger Brown piece bought for $5,000.00 at a Sothebys auction in Los Angeles, exemplified the investment potential as its value now reaches $300K.

Born a few days after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Roger Brown was fated with a talent to demonstrate, illustrate, and celebrate the American dream. He died in 1997 in the midst of the AIDS epidemic and, in the some 50 years between his birth and

death, he created a remarkable body of work, and made sculpture and prints that speak to the values and life of America observed in the city and the countryside.

A native of Alabama, Brown was educated at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His move to Chicago led him to became one of the New Imagists, a kind of offshoot of Pop art and Chicago style: very personal, emotional and politically aware, at a time when the social and economic structure of this country were assaulted, examined, and debated. Riots and demonstrations were the order of the day and made their way onto the canvases of Brown and his peers including such artists as Jim Nutt, Ed Paschke, Gladys Nilsson, Christina Ramberg and Karl Wirsum.

Brown’s painting style is a unique amalgam of modernity side by side with folk art. His subject matter can be rural—clouds, fields, weather patterns—or it can be urban— pedestrians and apartments—figuratively documenting the days and nights of the people of this rather young Republic. I was

immediately drawn to his work because of the simplicity and elegance of his astute social commentary: like with a good stand-up comic, you get the joke quickly and it lasts.

In Chicago and in New York he was promoted by dealer Phyllis Kind, a brilliant blonde from the Bronx who represented his work along with Outsider artists. She was described in the New York Times as a combative, visionary art dealer who championed a group of young artists first called the Hairy Who, and later called the Chicago Imagists, as well as major Outsider artists. As the Imagists rejected the ideas behind minimalism and conceptualism of the 60s, they instead turned to a figurative style to create art that was sometimes violent and often satirical as explained on the Smithsonian’s website. Kind helped expand the narrative of 20thcentury art, adding Alison Saar, Robert Colescott, William N. Copley, Gillian Jagger and Mark Greenwold to the roster of her ground floor Greene St. gallery space which opened in the 80s and closed in 2009.

In 1984, two decades into his career, Brown worked with Styria Press to publish a facsimile edition of his own sketchbook: 50 works in total, it shows not only the various themes he explored, but also his evolving technique for making a picture. Black and white only, yet texture, density and environment are explored. To identify location or theme, he might use repetition as a means to set the stage or suggested changes of scale, whether he is addressing a landscape or cityscape or a figure. In the pages of the sketchbook, one finds the extremes of his vision and the variants of his imagination: a rocket ship titled Cathedral, or the figure of man casting a spell on nature, a tree.

If the Whitney Museum’s 2022 exhibition, Edward Hopper’s New York, tells us about the skyline and life in the city--people in a Chinese restaurant, a diner, the interior of a theater, and then the New England coast—it is certainly time for a Brown exhibition that brings into focus the architecture of Chicago and its nearby countryside: the rural farm fields, track homes in the suburbs, and the great weather

patterns that criss cross the Mid West.

Both artists represent America, but for Hopper, it is a naturalist style drawn from the Ash Can School while Brown is an innovator, improvising colors and forms like Stuart Davis. Two prime examples of Brown are pictures presented by the Aaron Galleries: Renaissance in Reverse from the 80s and Looks Like Rain from the 70s.

The first is a multi-layered urban scene where figures in silhouette populate buildings, and house characters in a play living out lives in the most modern of structures, the skyscraper . Contemporaries of Brown, like the late Wayne Thiebaud and Robert Moskowitz, address similar themes. Thiebaud focuses on San Francisco, Moskowitz on Manhattan, with all three men seemingly smitten by the architecture that surrounds them. (What a great show that might be: Brown, Moskowitz and Thiebaud! )

In the second, distant lightning appears in the sky, a train is coming. The foreground

is a map of yellow fields, symmetrical and repetitive and, in the center, our two protagonists awaiting the coming storm. What is most remarkable about Brown as a painter is that, while his topic is modern life, his style looks back to the pre-Renaissance, to paintings in which the world is represented as flattened space and in deeply rich colors, as in works by the artists of the SieneseI school in 14th century Italy. He takes from that somewhat naive style and reinvents it in contemporary terms. Ironically, Brown’s works are contemplative of these early religious pictures, seeing humanity humbled by nature and its own plotting. Maybe the most attractive aspect of his work is its strong humanism buffered by great skill.

A Brown retrospective is long overdue and perhaps the place for it is the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Having already presented Alice Neel and her world of friends relatives, and associates, it seems that the next survey should focus on a place and its surroundings...what better place than Chicago, introduced with pictures by Roger Brown?

SEBASTIEN MONTABONEL Nurturing Art Institutions and Embracing the Digital Era

Sebastien Montabonel, a seasoned European Senior Specialist in Contemporary Photography at Phillips, has an impressive career collaborating with esteemed private and corporate collections. Notably, in 2011, he played a vital role in advising Tate Modern during the acquisition of the Jacobson/ Hashimoto Collection, propelling it to become the most comprehensive collection of vintage modernist Japanese photographs in the West.

Building on his success, Sebastien initiated The Private Collector Project, bringing influential private collections to the public sphere in partnership with the Saatchi Gallery and Phillips. He further secured the exhibition of the Juan Yarur Contemporary Art Collection in collaboration with the Chilean Ministry of Foreign Relations. Presently, as the founder of Montabonel & Partners Post-War & Contemporary Art Advisory, he lends his expertise to Governments, Foundations, Private Collections, Museums, and International Companies.

Recently, Sebastien unveiled his latest creation, The Island, a digital platform forging partnerships with international museums to broaden their permanent collections and raise additional funds. The Island introduces a groundbreaking concept, commissioning on-chain artworks by traditional artists. The inaugural project features works by artist Stefan Brüggemann and aligns with Mostyn, a renowned contemporary art museum in

By Michael Klein

Wales, to inaugurate their first-ever public art collection. As the first partnership between an art institution and the digital platform, a percentage of the sales from the drop will also be donated to the museum.

All the works by Stefan Brüggemann were created with support of Chat GPT – the artist requested that Chat GPT rewrites news headlines which are part of the artwork and select backgrounds and colors from a pool of data. The artwork is also dynamic (the headlines and backgrounds change every 8 hours) and it will only become static after 1 year.

Let's delve into Sebastien Montabonel's journey, his groundbreaking platform, and his insights on the post-pandemic challenges faced by museums.

Can you describe the post-pandemic challenges that you see museums face? Would that be audience participation,

funding, conservation, education, or all of the above?

In Europe, the challenges that museums are confronting with audience participation, funding, conservation, and education are closely tied to their respective countries' cultural budgets rather than solely being attributed to the pandemic. For instance, I anticipate France and Germany to fare well, as they have recently demonstrated a commitment to bolstering their cultural budgets. France has impressively increased its culture budget by 7% and now allocates £3.86bn to culture, a record amount. Likewise, Germany has raised arts spending by 7% in response to the unprecedented crises of our time, reinforcing arts, culture, and media. In contrast, ACE (Art Council England) currently spends £446m a year in England. While English art professionals are resourceful and pragmatic, their cultural institutions may face challenges in executing and managing funding disparities.

Is the purpose of The Island to present in a digital format works of art from different collections?

The Island functions as a platform that collaborates with established traditional artists to create museum-quality on-chain art commissions. Leveraging our team's accomplishments in the traditional art world, we aim to bridge the gap between traditional visual and conceptual artistic practices and the digital realm. The Island operates in three interconnected areas:

Collecting: We curate and commission museum-quality on-chain works from top established artists, elevating their value and visibility by placing key pieces in museum collections, exhibitions, and leading galleries.

Assisting Traditional Artists: We assist traditional artists in exploring and advancing digital and on-chain technology as an artistic medium, supporting their creative conceptual process and digital production through partnerships with leading digital production agencies.

Influencing Institutional and Traditional Art Narrative: Our goal is to help traditional art institutions embrace onchain art to remain relevant in the digital era and engage with new audiences and generations. We aim to integrate on-chain art discussions into traditional art contexts through art publications, academic journals, conferences, talks, and panels, introducing traditional art collectors to on-chain art.

How would you describe The Island’s commission with Stefan Brüggemann to those who might not be familiar with the new digital world?

The commission features bold, impactful statements rendered in a minimalistic aesthetic. Stefan Brüggemann explores the power of language and its ability to convey complex ideas, emotions, and social commentary. By extracting final lines from iconic movies and presenting them as standalone statements juxtaposed with real-time headlines from media outlets, the artwork takes on a unique and dynamic form.

Each on-chain piece is distinct and sources new headlines three times a day using onchain technology, often manipulating the wording through AI to mimic the artist's editing process. These artworks dynamically incorporate headlines from prominent media outlets, creating a thought-provoking amalgamation of reality (news) and fiction (movies). The enigmatic and ambiguous selected lines encourage viewers to reflect on dominant themes and narratives present in our daily lives, prompting contemplation on the contemporary human experience.

What sparked your interest in art?

Art is a realm that transcends mere creativity—it is a platform where artists use their unique sensibilities to observe and interpret the world in ways most of us cannot. Their artistic language allows them to act, re-act, or re-enact significant moments in our lives, effectively turning their artwork into a mirror of our society. At their best, artists' works become the memory of humankind, transforming into

timeless cultural imprints. To be part of the process that initiates this transformative alchemy is an immense privilege, and it fuels my passion for the art world.

You wear many hats; how do you describe your work?

Indeed, my work encompasses various roles and titles, which can vary depending on the institutions I serve—whether it be a government, cultural institution, bank, or individual. Regardless of the context, my core responsibilities always revolve around knowledge, connection, interpretation, and creativity. The key to success lies in adapting how I transfer knowledge to suit each situation, as that can make all the difference in achieving positive outcomes.

The art world has seen significant changes since the '70s, from the roles of women and minorities to the influence of money and power on who gets recognized and showcased. Can you discuss the practice of "instituting" and how it has evolved?

The art world's ecosystem is perpetually evolving, and continuous re-assessment is crucial. The dynamics between money, power shifts, and trends are intricately connected in the art world. Art collections worldwide are reflective of geographical wealth

At their best, artists' works become the memory of humankind, transforming into timeless cultural imprints. To be part of the process that initiates this transformative alchemy is an immense privilege, and it fuels my passion for the art world.

distribution, and the timeline of collectionbuilding often mirrors the economic health of regions. The data derived from art collections offers objective insights into societal progress, and the art world acts as a barometer of cultural and economic change.

Our foundation, AI21C, constantly monitors these changes and seeks to understand their implications on museums, exhibitions, markets, audience engagement, financial products, education, and artistic production. As society evolves, it is essential for art institutions to adapt and ensure inclusivity, diversity, and representation to accurately reflect the dynamics of the world we live in.

Sebastien Montabonel's journey in the art world and his groundbreaking platform, The Island, stand as testimonies to the symbiosis between traditional and digital art. By fostering collaboration between established artists and embracing on-chain technology, Sebastien strives to propel the art world into the digital era, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive future for museums, artists, and audiences alike. As the art world continues to evolve, the insights of visionaries like Sebastien will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping its course.

Between LIGHT DARK

By Udo Spreitzenbarth

VILLA BOKÉH AND ITS OWNER CLAUDIA BOSCH

A Haven of Creativity and Passion in Antigua, Guatemala

By Candice Beaumont

When I landed by helicopter on the lawn at Villa Bokéh it felt like I was entering the most romantic, breathtaking, beautiful, private picturesque place in the world. A loving couple was rowing gently across the lake beside us and we looked up at a large volcano surrounded by nature. The expansive villa sits on six acres of gardens, the largest of any hotel in Antigua. After landing we leisurely explored the manicured gardens that feature several tranquil fountains. Designed by Katy Jay in collaboration with Paliare Studio, we experienced an alluring blend of sophisticated architecture, Guatemalan Colonial Design, and modern details. Antigua Guatemala is known as the best-preserved Spanish colonial city in Central America with old cobblestone streets, beautiful parks and great hiking up the volcanoes overlooking the city for amazing views. In the heart of this stunning region lies Villa Bokéh, a luxurious property that offers a serene escape from the stresses of daily life. But what sets Villa Bokéh apart from other luxury villas in the area is the unique personality and creative flair of its owner, Claudia Bosch, President of Grupo Alta who owns Villa Bokéh and Casa Palopo.

Katy (mentioned above) is Claudia’s daughter. She is a gifted artist and designer who has a passion for creating beautiful spaces with 100% local product. Her spaces inspire and delight the beholder. Her love for art and design is evident in every aspect of Villa Bokéh, from the stylish refurbished furnishings to the carefully curated Guatemalan artwork on the walls. The villa is a testament to her exceptional attention to detail and her keen eye for aesthetics. The success of the hotel is a direct reflection of Claudia and her daughters team work; where different ideas and perspectives come to life.

One of the most striking features of Villa Bokéh is the stunning photography on display throughout the property. Mitchell Denburg captured the natural beauty of the region in a way that is truly mesmerizing. His photographs adorn some walls of the villa, adding to the already enchanting atmosphere of the place.

But Claudia's keen eye for the property and vision is not limited to the interior of the villa. She also has collaborated with Carmen Pokorni to design a beautiful outdoor space

that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The gardens at Villa Bokéh are a testament to Claudia's love for nature, with a wide variety of plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year. The villa's outdoor areas provide a perfect setting for guests to relax and unwind while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to its beautiful spaces, Villa Bokéh also serves as a venue for events and retreats. Claudia has hosted numerous events over the years, ranging from weddings to wellness retreats. The villa's spacious rooms and spectacular surroundings make it the perfect location for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and disconnect to reconnect.

But Claudia's passion for service doesn't stop at Villa Bokéh's doorstep. She is also a passionate advocate for the arts and has worked to promote the cultural heritage of the region through carefully crafted experiences, projects and events. She is a frequent supporter of local artists and artisans and has curated exhibitions that showcase their work.

Claudia's dedication to service and culture is also evident in her work as a professional with Villa Bokéh’s sister property Casa Palopo. Where she carefully immersed herself in the community now known for her approach in making it a colorful town elevating tourism. Claudia has continually focused on perfectly curating guests' experiences through our hotel services and becoming a gastronomical pinpoint in Antigua and Lake Atitlan. She is passionate about giving back in the hotels surrounding communities and always makes sure to shine light on the beauty of Guatemalans culture and people.

In conclusion, Villa Bokéh and its owner Claudia are a testament of an empowered woman. Her passion for hospitality and her commitment to creating an inspiring space is evident in every detail. A visit to Villa Bokéh is a must for anyone looking for a unique, unforgettable and inspiring experience in Antigua. Claudia's dedication to promoting local art is truly admirable. Her vision and passion has created a home away from home for anyone looking to escape into an oasis filled with beauty that is truly unparalleled.

SUMMER WANDERLUST FOR ALL AGES

Luxury Resorts Around the World for the Ultimate Holiday Getaway

As fall approaches, the anticipation for the holiday season begins to build, and with it, the desire to escape to luxurious destinations that promise unforgettable experiences for all ages. Whether you dream of a winter wonderland nestled amidst snow-capped mountains or a tropical paradise with warm, sun-kissed beaches, these top luxury resorts around the world offer the perfect setting for a holiday filled with opulence and cultural delights. Embrace the spirit of the season and indulge in the magic of these enchanting destinations.

By Angela Gorman

SUMBA, INDONESIA:

Festive Luxe at Cap Karoso

Escape to the exotic paradise of Sumba, a lesser-known gem in the Indonesian archipelago. Sumba has emerged as a coveted destination for affluent travelers seeking an exceptional escape from the ordinary. Far away from the bustling crowds, this remote island offers an untouched haven where privacy, tranquility, and authenticity converge. The allure lies in Sumba's untouched beauty that is rich in history and indigenous culture. Sumba offers a glimpse into a world unspoiled by mass tourism, where ancient rituals, traditional architecture, and intricate handwoven fabrics are still an integral part of everyday life.

Where to Stay: As the holiday season unfolds, Cap Karoso offers a plethora of family-friendly highlights for visitors of all ages. The resort's own Cap Karoso Farm not only provides fresh and delicious food for the restaurants but also serves as a hub of creativity and learning. Families can participate in the artist-inresidence program, where they can engage in various artistic pursuits and express their creativity. Craft studios on the farm allow children and adults alike to indulge in hands-on activities and create cherished mementos. For the little adventurers aged 3 to 12, the resort hosts the Little Adventurers Club, offering a range of fun and educational programs. Young visitors can explore the wonders of the night sky with an astronomy teacher or gain gardening skills under the guidance of experienced instructors at the children's club.

DUBAI: Embrace Extravagance at Atlantis, The Royal Dubai

Dubai, synonymous with luxury and extravagance, transforms into a captivating winter wonderland during the holiday season. At the heart of this bustling metropolis lies Atlantis, The Royal Dubai, a resort that epitomizes opulence and grandeur. Situated on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this 5-star property is a playground for both adults and kids, offering an array of amenities that cater to every desire.

Where to Stay:

During the holiday season, Atlantis, The Royal Dubai takes on a festive charm, adorned with glittering decorations and hosting enchanting events for the whole family. Kids can delight in meeting Santa Claus at the Aquaventure Waterpark, while adults indulge in Michelin-starred dining experiences and luxurious spa treatments. Embrace the magic of the season as the resort organizes special cultural performances and festive activities that showcase the Emirati heritage.

COURCHEVEL, FRANCE

A Winter Wonderland at Les Airelles Resort

Courcheval's allure lies in its status as a winter playground for the affluent and famous, with opulent chalets, fine dining, and high-end boutiques amidst picturesque snow-capped peaks. The resort's extensive ski terrain, part of the renowned Three Valleys ski area, offers a thrilling playground for winter sports enthusiasts to explore the vast alpine wonderland with a sense of freedom and excitement.

Where to Stay:

Embrace the enchanting allure of winter in the French Alps as you journey to Courchevel, a world-renowned ski destination. Here, Les Airelles Resort stands as an epitome of luxurious alpine hospitality, offering a seamless blend of elegance and winter adventure. Nestled amidst the Narnia-like pine forests and powder-topped peaks of the world's largest ski area lies Les

Airelles Resort, the first proper five-star luxury hotel in Courchevel, offering a fairytale snow palace experience. With its 48 keys and five restaurants, Les Airelles Resort epitomizes

opulence and indulgence. The resort's magnificent interiors are adorned in 19th-century Austro-Hungarian Alpine splendor, immersing guests in a world of grandeur and elegance.

ST. BARTHS: Where Extravagance Meets Effortless Luxury

St. Barths, a haven for the rich and famous, lures in billionaires and jet-setters, especially during the festive season between Christmas and New Year. The port of the capital, Gustavia, comes alive as superyachts parade along its shores, showcasing a mesmerizing display of opulence.

Where to Stay: Among the best Caribbean destinations for sophisticated travelers, St. Barths boasts sleek boutique hotels where sustainability and luxury intertwine seamlessly. At the forefront of this paradise of elegance is the esteemed Cheval Blanc hotel, sprawled along the pristine Flamands beach. The hotel's ocean-facing and garden rooms exude effortless charm with linen, teak, and ikat accents. Penthouse-style suites, set a little removed from the main hub, offer a more secluded and exclusive experience. The heart of Cheval Blanc is its sense of elegant insouciance, evoking an old-school, F. Scott Fitzgerald Riviera style. The impeccable service from staff surpasses expectations, ensuring an unparalleled guest experience. At the heart of this luxurious retreat is the beach itself, with the rolling surf providing a mesmerizing soundtrack to the sunbeds and the reimagined seaside La Cabane restaurant. Lunchtime becomes an easygoing party over gazpacho, frites, and sole meunière, while candlelit dinners exude an air of sophisticated indulgence. Cheval Blanc at St. Barths is a true masterpiece of scene-setting and elegant restraint, where guests are immersed in an ambiance of unparalleled luxury, making every moment an extraordinary memory to cherish.

LOS OLIVOS, CALIFORNIA

Idyllic Holidays at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern

For a holiday escape that combines serenity with rustic charm, head to Los Olivos, California, in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley wine country. The Valley boasts an exquisite culinary scene, with Michelinstarred restaurants, farm-to-table dining experiences, and intimate chef's table events. Food enthusiasts can savor delectable dishes crafted by world-class chefs using the freshest local ingredients. For the adventurous at heart, the valley offers exclusive outdoor experiences such as horseback riding through vineyards, private hot air balloon rides, and helicopter tours over the stunning landscapes.

Where to Stay: Steeped in history dating back to its 1886 origins as a popular stagecoach stop, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern holds a fabled place in Central Coast lore. Now, as a part of Auberge Resorts Collection, it embraces a new chapter as the ultimate luxury destination in Santa Ynez Valley. Nestled in the picturesque wine country, The Inn at Mattei's Tavern exudes timeless elegance while seamlessly blending history with contemporary opulence. Guests are transported to a bygone era, embracing the legacy of this beloved landmark. The resort offers delightful experiences for the entire family, from winemaking tours and tastings to leisurely strolls through the vineyards. Savor farm-to-table dining experiences, celebrating the season's bounty in a culinary symphony of flavors.

BAHA MAR: A Family-Friendly Paradise

Nestled in the pristine beauty of the Bahamas, Baha Mar beckons families in search of a luxurious winter getaway brimming with adventure and indulgence. Beyond the sun-kissed beaches and azure waters, this captivating resort offers a wealth of entertainment, making it a haven for both parents and kids. Baha Mar's allure extends far beyond the water's edge, boasting a bustling casino and a vibrant restaurant scene that promise endless opportunities for entertainment. Children are captivated by the resort's exciting Kids Club. Tailored for ages 3 to 12, little ones immerse themselves in an array of arts and crafts, interactive games, and educational activities, celebrating the rich culture and wildlife of the Bahamas.

Where to Stay: Baha Mar offers a trifecta of luxury resorts, each catering to discerning travelers seeking the epitome of privacy and opulence. For families in search of abundant space and exclusivity, The Reserve at the Grand Hyatt is the perfect haven. Here, the Two Bedroom Ocean View Riviera Residences promise breathtaking ocean vistas, providing a serene and enchanting retreat where families can spread out and relax in style. Adjacent to the Hyatt, the Rosewood Baha Mar awaits with its own private pool and the unmistakable signature sophistication that the Rosewood brand is renowned for.

MONARCH ESTATE SERVICES, LLC:

The Synergy of Service

By Amy Poliakoff

Transparency, Trust and Teamwork are three qualities that make a business thrive. Through the partnership of Mendy Katz, President, and Carol Caprio, Vice President, Monarch Estate Services, LLC is one of the leading companies merging property management and luxury concierge. Traditionally these two sectors stand alone, but through Katz and Caprio’s teamwork, valuable results and true lifestyle service is provided using the company’s unique hands-on approach.

“The name Monarch is a reference to royalty. For us, we want all our clients to have a full range of unparalleled customer service and be treated like nobility. We want to provide service through true connectivity, availability, and transparency,” said Mendy Katz.

Katz has been providing property management services for real estate housing clients in the Connecticut/Tri-State area for over 20 years. He has single-handedly taken a 40-unit real estate company and developed it into a 2000-unit conglomerate in just three and a half years. According to Katz, the key to excellent property management and building success is transparency. Sharing key performance indicators through reports and maintaining open communication are attributes that allow for achievement. As his passion for real estate strengthened, he has

worked with banks to renegotiate defaulted bank mortgages, saving clients more than $9 million dollars throughout his career. Using Transparency, Trust and Teamwork, Monarch’s success has continued to grow. Today, Monarch aims to manage properties across the U.S. and is currently working with over 65 clients. Some of Monarch’s services include: home renovation, home maintenance and repairs, security and technology installation, interior design and home staging, pool services and maintenance of outdoor amenities, architectural landscaping and maintenance of equestrian facilities. Monarch’s strength is its special relationships with its vendors, like their partnership with the sole contractor for the US Open. This has led to client requests for tennis and pickleball courts to be added to the properties. Pickleball has become the new sport of trend.

With Carol Caprio at the helm, any personalized service can be achieved. Caprio’s background in the fashion industry, having worked for companies like Calvin Klein, Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue and Michael Kors, allows her to have a great understanding of design and the luxury market. Licensed in real estate for over 10 years, Caprio can use her combined knowledge of both markets to help scale Monarch’s growth.

“Merging the luxury real estate market with lifestyle management is very dynamic. There are concierge services and there are real estate property management companies, but we really do not see the competition coming together to form a conglomerate. If one’s foyer needs fresh cut flowers, luxury ground transportation, or a private jet needs to be arranged, we can do it all,” said Caprio. Approximately two-thirds of Monarch’s clients are using the company’s luxury services, which includes access to a yacht syndicate of over 70 yachts, and a private plane syndicate with over 200 luxury jets. Monarch’s reach has no boundaries, as they have established partnerships in Europe, Monaco, Italy and the UK. Providing unparalleled service is the focus.

Transparency, trust and teamwork being the foundation for Monarch, the company uses an app to provide constant communication. The app is user-friendly, allowing the client to make the request of services and provide real time updates of the request. Keeping clients informed and updated enables a true cohesive communication process. Last minute changes and requests that are responded to define true concierge. Katz helps maintain requests and tasks with a team of people that work with him on property management. However, the Monarch Estate Services team knows that, though there are synergies between their two divisions, all services can be selected separately and customized upon request.

“For Monarch, there is no ceiling to reach. We are growing globally, and our clients are our family,” said Caprio.

Wanting to expand, and with a long list of vendors and established partners, Monarch can customize favorable financial packages for their clients. New clients can take advantage of 10 percent off on first-time concierge packages, luxury estate management, or travel-related services.

“Communication and transparency are keys that have helped Monarch grow. We hear people; we really listen to what is important to each discerning client. We instill trust. If you can transparently explain to any client the processes needed to assure the right confidence, positive end results are always achieved. This is why our clients want to do business with us, “said Katz.

How to Attract and Keep DOMESTIC STAF F in Today’s Competitive Market

By Adora Trostle

The market for domestic professionals continues to be highly competitive, so understanding the current landscape, and knowing how to attract and keep good workers, is more important than ever. Aleksandra Kardwell, founder and president of Hamptons Employment Agency, Inc., and author of How to Find, Hire, and Keep the Right Domestic Professionals: The Household Employer’s Guide to Hiring Great Employees Who Will Stay for Years, shares her advice on how to navigate today’s household staffing environment

What’s the market like for household staffing?

Today’s market is very competitive, and experienced domestic professionals typically don’t have to wait long to secure well-paying jobs. In areas like The Hamptons, New York City, and Palm Beach, because of such high worker demand, some employers even find that they have to wait longer than usual to fill open positions.

What else is different now from a few years ago?

With around 7% inflation in 2022, aboveaverage inflation this year, and strong demand, domestic professional pay has increased significantly from a few years ago. For example, experienced housekeepers in The Hamptons are now typically being paid $40 to $60 per hour versus $30 to $40 per hour a few years ago.

What recommendations would you give to household employers?

It’s always important for households to take care of their staff, but this is especially

important in today’s environment. If you have good staff in place, that’s great, and you want to stay in that position. To retain your team, treat your employees well, keep them happy, and compensate them appropriately. At a minimum, good employees should get annual cost-of-living raises in line with inflation.

If you’re looking to hire a new employee, be ready to extend an offer quickly when you find someone you think will be a good fit. Workers with strong resumes are getting hired fast these days, as many are receiving more than one job offer. And, again, with today’s higher salaries, be sure to offer a marketcompetitive salary.

www.HamptonsEmployment.com

www.maisonmirabeau.com

WATER OF THE GODS

The husband and wife team behind Adamas Pisco are looking to revive pisco, the Peruvian brandy that was once San Francisco’s favourite spirit

By Robert Jobson

IN PERU, LOCALS CALL pisco “the water of the gods”, while Rudyard Kipling believed this delightful Peruvian brandy might have been “compounded by the shavings of cherubs’ wings, the glory of a tropical dawn, the red clouds of sunset…” Whether heaven-sent or otherwise, Peruvians have been drinking pisco for centuries and the drink was once equally popular in the US, until it faded in popularity after Prohibition. But a renaissance is underway in the form of Adamas Pisco, a creative endeavour between Michael Meyers and his wife, Therese Corriente, which aims to restore pisco to public consciousness in the form of an artisanal product that is made with skill and care and packaged in a stunning diamond shaped bottle that reflects the multi-faceted, precious spirit within.

“Adamas Pisco is very versatile,” says Therese. “It can be used to create a unique and flavourful cocktail, but its purity and smoothness mean it can be enjoyed as a chilled shot, neat or on the rocks. We want people to explore and enjoy Adamas Pisco and so we designed a diamond-shaped illuminated bottle to attract our discerning audience.”

Not everybody’s first encounter with pisco can be as memorable as that of Therese and Michael. They were horse-riding on a friend’s hacienda when he pulled a bottle of pisco out of his saddlebag and suggested they have a sip. From that first electrifying taste they were galvanised to discover more about this great lost spirit. “We discovered this was a grape-based brandy made from certain grapes in a single area that, like champagne, is geographically controlled so you can’t call just anything pisco,” says Michael. “Our entrepreneurial instinct kicked in and we decided to produce our own. We wanted to create the most authentic drink, so we scoured the country until we found one particular farmer who had been there for more than 100 years on this incredible terroir. Over four generations, he has developed a unique approach to making pisco in the artisanal style.”

Adamas Pisco is distilled from freshly fermented Quebranta grape juice using copper stills and clay jars called piscos. Pisco has deep roots in Peruvian culture, particularly through the traditional “grape-stomping” ritual, when the local farmhands stomp on the grapes to extract the juice while singing

It’s about that journey towards perfection … to make this the perfect spirit for the world to enjoy.

and joking – and, of course, having the occasional drink. The juice sits in a saturation basin called a puntaya for 24 hours before the seven-day fermentation process, when the yeasts in the grape skin absorb sugar and turn it into alcohol. This is a carefully controlled process, with experienced piscomakers striving to ensure the natural aroma of the grapes does not evaporate as this is highly valued in the best pisco. “The critical steps from the timing of fermentation, the selection of the clay pot and the control of maturation are all key considerations in the art of making a world-class pisco,” says Michael.

Pisco entered the US during the gold rush and became one of the most popular drinks in San Francisco in the form of the Pisco Punch cocktail. Indeed, it was said that the three things everybody had to do in San Francisco were ride a cable car, see the sun set over Golden Gate Bridge and drink a Pisco Punch. Mark Twain reportedly drank pisco with the man who inspired the character of Tom Sawyer, while Herman Melville wrote that although “Pisco does a deal of mischief in the world, yet… must we not also needs admit that sometimes pisco does a deal of good?”

Following Prohibition, Pisco never quite reclaimed its old heights and dwindled from public consciousness in the US, while retaining its grip on the domestic Peruvian imagination. Adamas Pisco intends to rectify this, ensuring that one of the great South American luxuries will once more become an international sensation. “We did taste-testing and there was simply no competition to match our Adamas Pisco, so we realised that with care and attention we could create something very special,” says Michael. “We use traditional methods, but have found ways to adapt it to suit the palate

of the rest of the world. We really want to explore all the potential of this product as we introduce it to a younger global audience.”

Adamas Pisco is initially being launched in New York, California and Florida – three of America’s most adventurous states when it comes to high-end spirits. Michael and Therese are also confident it will be popular in London, which is similarly forward-thinking when it comes to new products and exciting cocktails. The opulent packaging is not only designed to attract attention, but also to signify that this is a luxury brand, which has been created with passion for an audience that appreciates authentic craftsmanship.

And the return of pisco to the US and Europe is not going to end here. “We are going to develop different flavours by blending several

grape varieties, while maintaining the integrity of the product through our commitment to the process and the traditional methods of production,” says Michael.

“When you make a product that comes out of your relationship with your friends and a personal passion, it really comes through in whatever you are creating. This all started while horseback riding in the desert, when we first tried pisco with our friend and discovered this incredible drink. We are now able to share this product around the table with our friends. It’s all about that journey towards perfection and we are so proud of what we have achieved. Therese doesn’t even drink alcohol, but has acquired a taste for pisco through her passion to make this the perfect spirit for the world to enjoy.”

www.adamasreserve.com

A JOURNEY STARTING FROM THE HOME OF TEQUILA

Our intention was to create world class premium tequilas that we would be proud to put our name to.

All Naked Diablo Tequila’s are handcrafted using traditional methods of manufacturing.

Naked Diablo have partnered up with Mexico's most awarded distillery. They supply tequila for the likes of basketball legend Michael Jordan's (and his four other billionaire NBA team owner partners) company, Cincoro, 21 Seed (which has just had a nine-figure buy-in from Diageo because they only sell flavored tequila), Tesla Tequila, and many others.

Using only the best sustainably sourced quality blue weber agave taken from the highlands and lowlands of Jalisco. Adding these agaves with the natural volcanic spring water that flows through the distillery to enhance our unique and incredible taste.

Combining the baking processes of both traditional ovens covered in stone masonry and autoclaves to create ultra smooth premium tequila’s for our customers....

We currently have eight Sku's. Blanco, Reposado,Anejo, Extra Anejo, Vanilla, Cinnamon,Coffee, and Blanco 55% Extra Strength.

We also have several new tequila flavors ready in the pipeline.

Naked Diablo can be purchased on premise and off premise in hundreds of locations like; ABC Liquor Stores, Total Wines, and restaurants like El Diablo Tequila & Taco Bars.

Naked Diablo can also be purchased from US online retailer Reservebar.com, giving us access to over 200 million online consumers in 40 US states.

Through ReserveBar, people can place an order online, and Naked Diablo tequila can be delivered to the customer's door.

To know more, please visit www.nakeddiablo.co

OCEANO WINES Sun Kissed Perfection from San Luis Obispo

By Adora Trostle

Oceano Wines is a joint venture between Rachel Martin and Kurt Deutsch. The two randomly met at the Middleburg Film Festival in October, 2014. They happened to be seated across from each other at a dinner prior to the screening of Kurt's feature film, "The Last Five Years.”

Prior to Oceano and shortly after Rachel’s academic wine education with a degree in Viticulture and Enology from Napa Valley College and a diploma from the prestigious Sensory Evaluation program at the University of Bordeaux School of Enology, she was tasked with jump-starting the winery of her stepfather, John Kent Cooke (former owner of the NFL Washington Redskins football team). As Executive Vice President of Cooke’s Boxwood Estate Winery, Rachel took Boxwood from being a purely local presence in Virginia’s wine country to a 5,000-case, internationally awarded and distributed brand.

Not only did Rachel impact Boxwood’s position in the Virginia wine hierarchy, she spearheaded the effort to gain American Viticultural Area (AVA) recognition for her region. The Middleburg Virginia AVA was approved by the TTB (the federal agency responsible for determining if certain areas merit their own AVA designation) after consideration of Rachel's petition. Attaining coveted AVA status immediately enhanced the value of all the wines and wineries coming from this part of Virginia. Her efforts have been lauded by internationally recognized wine experts, including Hugh Johnson, Jancis Robinson (who has praised her “marketing savvy”), Oz Clarke and Stephen Spurrier, among others. Boxwood’s wines have garnered numerous 90+ scores from the most esteemed wine writers both in the United States and abroad.

Grammy Award winner and founder of Sh-KBoom & Ghostlight Records, Kurt Deutsch is credited with reinventing the musical theater recording landscape by preserving countless shows in high-quality albums through close partnerships with Broadway's top producers, as well as working hand-in-hand with the new generation of theater artists and composers to merge them with the popular culture at large.

In 2017, Deutsch joined Warner Music Group and is currently Senior VP of Warner Music Entertainment and Theatrical Ventures. At

WMG he has been part of the producing team on Broadway and West End of the musicals Tina - The Tina Turner Musical, The Cher Show, Beetlejuice, and David Byrne's American Utopia. American Utopia was honored with a special Tony Award and the subsequent film directed by Spike Lee, earned Emmy and Grammy nominations. Deutsch is a lead producer of the Broadway-bound musical adaptation of The Notebook.

In 2016, after Rachel’s initial visit to Spanish Springs Vineyard, Rachel and Kurt founded

Oceano Wines. “From my first visit to the vineyard, I knew exactly what I could make. I love minerality and the savory qualities of wine. I knew I could produce a wine like I dreamed in my mind", says Martin. Their collaboration resulted in both their marriage in 2018 and the release their first wine, the 2016 Spanish Springs Vineyard Chardonnay. Spanish Springs Vineyard is the sole source of fruit for the chardonnay and pinot noir made by Oceano Wines. Located nearly at the western edge of the newly established

San Luis Obispo Coast AVA. Spanish Springs is a rarity within it because it is closer to the Pacific Ocean than any other vineyard in this “coastal” appellation, not to mention the Golden State itself. Spanish Springs is perfectly suited to grow chardonnay and pinot noir – the vineyard also produces a number of other grapes, both white and red – that epitomize balance and elegance.

Not surprisingly, given the unspoiled nature of the place, the vineyard is SIP Certified. This Sustainable In Practice designation is arguably more stringent than what is mandated by the USDA’s Organic program as well as biodynamic practices because it touches on every part of the grape-growing and winemaking process, from planting to the way the finished wine is packaged

and shipped. The water used to irrigate the vines is delivered via a natural aquifer.

In Fall 2023 Oceano will launch its first non-alcoholic wines. Oceano Zero was founded on the idea that nonalcoholic wines can be created with the same artistic intention as traditional bottlings. “We want to prove that wine lovers wanting to reduce their consumption of alcohol don’t have to lower their standards when it comes to non-alcoholic wine.”, says Martin.

“I’ve been a part of the wine industry for decades and I saw that there was a white space within the market that was left totally untapped,” said Rachel Martin, Oceano Wines Founder and CEO. “Not wanting to drink alcohol doesn’t mean you don’t want

to drink delicious wine or take part in the rituals that come with drinking. That’s why I worked with skilled winemakers to bring Oceano Zero to life and offer consumers a non-alcoholic option that is as luxurious and premium as any of our other fine wines.”

Oceano Wines is a WBENC certified Women-Owned business.

Rachel is a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier, New York and Washington, D.C. Chapters and was the first woman to be inducted into the Washington, D.C. Chapter of the International Society of Wine & Food. She and her wines have been featured in The Washington Post, The San Francisco Examiner, Forbes, Food & Wine, and Edible, among many others.

CorStone Empowering Marginalized Youth to Thrive in a Disrupted World

In a world facing unprecedented challenges and disruptions, the need for resilient, adaptable, and empowered youth has never been more critical. When these challenges disproportionately affect impoverished and marginalized communities, the call to action becomes even more urgent. CorStone, a social impact nonprofit organization, has emerged as a beacon of hope and transformation for marginalized youth, particularly girls and young women around the world. Through their innovative resilience-building wellbeing programs, CorStone aims to equip these young individuals with the inner skills and strengths to not only overcome adversity but also to thrive and pave the way for future generation.

By Talia Shine

A Vision of Inner Wellbeing

At the heart of CorStone's mission is the recognition of a crucial aspect missing in development efforts for children in need – the focus on inner wellbeing. Steve Leventhal, the visionary founder and CEO of CorStone, identified this gap two decades ago while working in the international development sector. He noticed that while much attention and funding was devoted to tangible and practical solutions, such as building schools and infrastructure, there was a lack of attention given to helping marginalized and vulnerable youth to forge the self-identity, mindset, agency and resilience required to overcome the systemic challenges they frequently face, like multi-generational poverty, caste and/or racial discrimination, and gender inequities.

Shifting Trajectories through Resilience

In launching CorStone, Leventhal’s goal was to harness the power of inner wellbeing to impact global wellbeing – nurturing not only an individual child's development and resilience but also, in turn, the potential for that child to become a ‘change agent’ within their

community or village. Consequently, he brought together a team to develop a curriculum that works from the ‘inside out’, to help a child in poverty to re-imagine what’s possible, to develop their character strengths, emotional intelligence, and communication and conflict management skills, and then learn how to set goals and build practical strategies and plans to achieve them.

Along the way, CorStone has gained an international reputation for their research and for their demonstrable and measurable results. Large-scale randomized controlled trials, the findings of which have been published in major scientific journals, have confirmed that CorStone’s approach works – documenting significant impacts on mental, emotional and physical health; improved education engagement and attainment; prevention of early marriage; and improved ability of participants to advocate for their rights. Ripple effects on school teachers and school systems have also been documented, including improved teacher-student, teacher-teacher and teacher-administrator relations, improved ability to deal with stress and burnout, and improved classroom management.

Scaling Impact Across Nations

With the dedication to create large-scale sustainable and scalable impact, CorStone has expanded its reach to three countries: India, Kenya, and Rwanda. In India, they have been working in six states, with Bihar being a focal point – one of the poorest states with a population of 120 million people. The impact of CorStone's programs is palpable, with government agreements in place to integrate their Youth First program into all Bihar school textbooks by 2024, train over 40,000 school teachers, and scale their efforts to all 35,000 schools in the state, providing the program to 3.5 million students per year.

In Kenya, CorStone has recently entered into partnership with the Ministry of Education to provide CorStone’s Youth First Kenya to all schools nationwide, eventually reaching over 2 million students per year. In Rwanda, CorStone's efforts are equally impactful; a randomized controlled trial was just completed, the program is currently operating in 55 schools, and an agreement with the Ministry of Education focused on nationwide scale-up is currently in development.

Empowering Educators and Building Lasting Partnerships

CorStone's approach involves collaboration and partnership. Instead of importing external teachers, local teams work closely with government master trainers, training them to, in turn, train, monitor and evaluate thousands of school teachers to deliver the CorStone programs effectively in the classroom. In this way, local capacity and long-term adoption is built within state and national education departments, thus ensuring that their initiatives create lasting impact and are sustained even after CorStone’s direct involvement ends.

Stories of Triumph and Transformation

CorStone's impact can be witnessed through numerous heartening success stories. One notable tale is that of a young girl in India who, shortly after completing the program at age 14 years, was forced by her father into a physically abusive marriage to an older man from another village. Despite her dire circumstances, she applied the skills she learned through the Youth First program to help her escape her torment and rebuild her life. She eventually remarried and vowed to provide her daughters with a better future, ensuring that they receive a full education.

Navigating Challenges and Future Aspirations

Like any pioneering initiative, CorStone faces its share of challenges. While the organization has been designing and implementing program and research initiatives since 2008, funding remains a top concern as they strive to meet an exponential increase in demand for their work and broaden the reach and scale of their impact to more countries. However, their unique focus on creating sustainable results and lasting partnerships with governments and like-minded funders serves them well as they work to overcome these hurdles. Moreover, CorStone is exploring expansion of its programs to include early childhood interventions and high school student initiatives; the emerging youth mental health and climate change crisis; as well as continuing efforts to leverage technology to broaden its reach.

A Beacon of Hope in a Turbulent World

In a world filled with uncertainties and disruptions, CorStone's inner wellbeing and resilience programs shine as a beacon of hope and empowerment for marginalized youth. By nurturing inner wellbeing and building resilience, CorStone is creating a generation of young individuals who can not only survive adversity but also thrive, thereby transforming not only their own life trajectories but also those of future generations. As we witness the inspiring impact of this social impact nonprofit organization, we can be assured that they are fostering a more resilient and compassionate world for all.

For more information, please see www.corstone.org

PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION (PCF)

Annual Pro-Am Tennis Series in Palm Beach, & Indian Wells Completed.

Heading Next to the Hamptons

By Candice Beaumont

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) hosts a series of Pro Am tennis tournaments every year beginning in Palm Beach, Florida in February then in Indian Wells, CA during the BNP Paribas Open and is heading to the Hamptons on August 25th-27th

For over 20 years, the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) has held its 3-day Pro-Am Tennis Tournament during the final weekend of the PNB Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in La Quinta, CA. The tournament provides a unique opportunity for tennis lovers to play on the outside courts of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden during the mornings and watch the professional matches from a luxury suite over center court in the afternoons and evenings. All tournaments pair donors with a current ATP professional tennis player or legend of the game for a unique and memorable weekend that includes great tennis and other special experiences. Saturday evening PCF hosts a gala dinner with great entertainment with past performers including the Beach Boys, Bryan Adams, Daryl Hall and John Oates, Kool & the Gang, John Fogerty and other notable artists. Entry is $25,000 for a player and a guest for the weekend. All proceeds benefit the Prostate Cancer Foundation. To learn more about the pro am tennis series and charity gala events in the Hamptons August 25-27th please contact Jan Haber at jhaber@pcf.org and to learn more about PCF and its mission, please visit www.pcf.org.

Between LIGHT & DARK

This black and white series of fine art photographs depicts celebrities in a new and unfamiliar context . Udo tells a story with each scene and creates an atmosphere meant to intrigue, captivate and mesmerize. Through his carefully designed set: scenography, make-up, and foremost light, rooted in the distinctive cinematic language inspired by film noir, Udo achieves to create dramatic emotions.

By Hillary Latos

The interplay of light and shadow, the brightness and darkness, emphasize ambiguity, as known from film sets by Alfred Hitchcock or David Lynch. Strange, erotic, or ambivalent emotions are found throughout Udo’s carefully designed scenes. His characteristic use of light and shadow dramatizes the scene and creates tension. This tension, along with the capture of a specific moment, allows the viewer to get a glimpse into the soul of the subject, rather than just seeing the surface.

His protagonists are often alienated, and sometimes find themselves trapped in unwanted, but never hopeless situations. Udo heightens this tension even more through emphasizing attitudes as well as motivations.

Mischa Barton’s portrait shot from above is reminiscent of Hitchcock’s Vertigo and The Birds. The star’s wide-open eyes, scream, and body position underline her unease and fear in anticipation of the upcoming drama. Nonetheless, the viewer feels intrigued and captivated, eager to catch a glimpse of the other side, from the character’s point of view.

On the other hand, Meg Ryan depicts the paradigm of a confident New Yorker, a tribute to Marylin Monroe's photograph on the roof of the Ambassador Hotel from 1955.

Tyra Banks has become a central character of many of Udo's outstanding fine art photographs. It is she who participated in their joint project Tyra 15, transforming the ultra- top model into 15 other high-profile celebrities. This series went on to become one of the most recognized projects of Udo’s fine art photography.

Udo’s timeless photograph of Daniel Brühl in front of a seemingly infinite sky scraper, reminds of the existentialist intellectual movement and paintings of Hopper, as well as novels by Franz Kafka with their protagonists being at the mercy of the system. Udo deviates from the traditionally accepted composition by replacing it with an upward perspective, bringing the character even closer to the viewer.

Between Light and Dark, the ambiguous black and white series fascinates the viewers by showing the duality of the characters’ emotions.

Inspiration

"I have always been fascinated by Renaissance paintings, by Caravaggio, who virtually invented this interplay of light and shadow. When the light suddenly bursts out of the darkness, I find that intriguing. I always seek to achieve this depth with my photography."

About the artist

Udo Spreitzenbarth is an international art, fashion and beauty photographer. Udo was born in Germany, and resides in New York City.

While studying architecture at Technische Universität Darmstadt, Udo developed an interest in modeling and fashion photography. It was then that he realized his passion for being behind the camera. After his first year in New York City, he shot his first billboard campaign that landed on a screen in Times Square.

His editorial photography has been featured in international issues of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan and more. His art photography has received international acclaim with a successful series of solo exhibitions in New York, Chicago, Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt, Shanghai, and Beijing.

AN OPULENT AFFAIR

By Hillary Latos

Impact Wealth Magazine and the 1640 Society hosted an exclusive cocktail soiree and issue launch before the Palm Beach Family Office Wealth Forum, creating an extraordinary sensory experience in a waterfront villa. The evening featured a string quartet from the renowned Dreyfoos School of the Arts, rare vintage cognac tastings by Louis XIII, and refined libations from Naked Diablo Tequila, Oceana Wines, and Sip Channe rose.

Celebrating Christopher Designs' collaboration with cover star Joanna Krupa, they donated a painting to benefit Victoria's Voice, a charity named after Jackie and David Siegel’s late daughter. Guests also enjoyed an immersive private jet mockup by Fly Exclusive and admired majestic yachts in the shimmering waters.

Photos by Dean Powell and Stephane Chiche

Family Moguls and Global Leaders

Attend Elite Exclusive 1640 Society FAMILY OFFICE WEALTH FORUM IN PALM BEACH

By Hillary Latos

Billionaires converged in Palm Beach at a private country club for a socially distanced 1640 Society Family Office Wealth Forum limited to 150 people. The Forum was held outdoors in Palm Beach with family titans, billionaires and entrepreneurs flying in from across the globe. Most of the guests own private planes so could easily fly in safely for the Forum. The main issue surrounding the Forum was the fact that many families were trying to land their jets at the same time on Sunday before the cocktail party. Billionaire, Jackie Siegel commented that it was the first time they could not get a landing slot at Palm Beach’s private airport and they had to transfer landing to Boca Raton. She later found out that several of her friends flying in for the Forum took the landing times she wanted at PBI. Participation in the network is by invitation only and includes some of the most prominent family members, heirs and high net worth investors from across the globe including Asia, Mid East, Europe & Latin America, as members of its exchange. The 1640 Society annual private meeting is an exclusive invitation-only event that brings together leading family members, family offices, and wealthy leaders from around the globe for a closed door private discussion about issues affecting the global elite and top one percent.

The Forum kicked off Sunday evening at a private waterfront home in Palm Beach over cocktails and continued on Monday with discussions ranging from leading CIO’s comparing asset allocation strategies, a panel with leading CEOs from across the globe, several billionaires including one of the wealthiest families who had flown in from the Middle East, Attorney General Sean Reyes discussed issues with fentanyl coming across the border together with the Siegels who lost a child to an opioid overdose, Stephen Kennedy Smith joined the healthcare panel with several serial entrepreneurs who had sold several healthcare businesses, and billionaire Gary Winnick’s CEO discussed how they monetized the wireless revolution while giving back to save the world. Tim Draper spoke with Sofi founder Mike Cagney giving an entrepreneurs perspective on how tech is disrupting industries and creating wealth, while former CEO of T. Rowe Price Todd Ruppert gave a great overview of investments and early stage venture capital. Later in the day geopolitical issues were covered as Ambas-

Photo by Alan Goldberg and Ana Reyes

sador Gordon Sondland was discussing with Ambassador Philip Lader about his stint as US Ambassador to the European Union and the negotiations he had with foreign leaders and multinational corporations to protect US interests abroad and at home. Outback Steakhouse founder Tim Gannon spoke with his son Chris CEO of Bolay and gave a great example of next gen family leadership with both father and son founding and leading top restaurant brands as well as winning the US Open Polo Championships years apart. The day ended with guests mingled over cocktails.

With some of the most influential families in the Palm Beach attending, not all high net worth families who applied to the forum got admittance. The 1640 Society runs the forum like a country club and so there is a rigorous approval process, with only a few hundred families getting approved to join on an annual basis. Families who got past the ultimate selection process included leading names like the Pitcairns, Kennedy’s, Bush, Firestone’s, Ford’s, Rockefeller’s, Bronfman’s, Kettering, Getty’s, Kluge, Pritzker’s, Johnson’s, Heinz, Hunt’s, Musk (co-founder of PayPal), along with international magnets like the Mittal family from India and the Pears families from Europe.

Photos by Alan Goldberg and Ana Reyes

RE-ALIGN BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT CONFERENCE

Paving the Way for Economic Growth and Social Harmony in Jamaica

The Re-Align Business and Investment Conference, held at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston, Jamaica and hosted by Entrepreneurial Partner’s, brought together leading financial experts and entrepreneurs from Jamaica and the United States. The conference provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions on achieving economic growth while fostering social harmony in the region. With a focus on practical solutions, the event aimed to unlock Jamaica’s entrepreneurial potential, support small businesses, and address social challenges faced by marginalized communities.

By Garfield Daley and Hillary Latos

Promoting Affordable Capitalization and Small Enterprises:

One of the key themes of the conference revolved around providing more affordable capitalization options to unleash Jamaica’s innate business talents and scale up existing small enterprises. Presenters emphasized the importance of ensuring access to capital for entrepreneurs, enabling them to grow their businesses and contribute to the country’s economic development. By offering practical strategies and insights, the conference aimed to empower small businesses and fuel economic growth from the grassroots level. \ \ Addressing Social Challenges:

The Re-Align conference showcased social projects that have proven effective in reducing crime rates and providing hope to marginalized youth and communities in inner-city and rural areas. By highlighting these successful initiatives, the event sought to inspire further collaboration between businesses, government agencies, and community organizations. Discussions focused on investing in education, sports, mentoring, and exposure to Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage to create a sense of inclusion and opportunity for young individuals who have been historically marginalized.

Exploring Innovative Business Strategies:

The conference engaged participants in lively deliberations on a range of business topics. Attendees had the opportunity to explore innovative ways of forming and managing businesses while mitigating costs and raising eq-

uity. The role of reputable institutions such as the Jamaica Stock Exchange, the Junior Stock Exchange, and the Social Stock Exchange was also emphasized as avenues for raising affordable equity financing. By encouraging entrepreneurs to explore these platforms, the conference aimed to broaden access to capital and foster growth in the business sector.

Overcoming Challenges to Business Development:

The event did not shy away from addressing the challenges hindering business development in Jamaica. Participants delved into the trust deficit that often hampers the formation of partnerships on the island. By acknowledging these obstacles and seeking practical solutions, the conference aimed to create an environment conducive to collaboration and growth. Experts shared insights and strategies to build trust, foster relationships, and overcome barriers to business development.

Inspiring Success Stories:

The conference featured remarkable success stories that served as beacons of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. Dr. Trisha Bailey, a Jamaican-born US billionaire and prominent figure in the pharmaceutical and medical equipment industry, shared her personal journey to success. Her story highlighted the importance of thrift, faith, and a relentless focus on building efficient business ventures. Dr. Bailey’s achievements, including being named a finalist for HME Woman of the Year in the USA and having a build-

ing named in her honor at the University of Connecticut, showcased the transformative power of determination and dedication.

Incisive and original presentations came from financier Keith Duncan, Group CEO, of Jamaica Money Market Brokers (JMMB) and a former President of the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ) who gave a blueprint of his Project Star Initiative to coordinate social programs to improve lives and create a greater sense of belonging among Jamaica’s marginalized; Jamaica Stock Exchange Managing Director, Dr. Marlene Street Forrest who spoke on the benefits of utilizing the stock market and getting listed on the exchange; while Gordon Swaby, founder of EduFocal Limited, a cutting edge educational and information technology company outlined his path which has led to expansion into the United States and Nigeria.

The Re-Align Business and Investment Conference served as a catalyst for change, offering tangible solutions to the elusive goal of achieving economic growth with social harmony in Jamaica. By providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the conference empowered entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders to make a positive impact. With a focus on affordable capitalization, social projects, and overcoming barriers to business development, the event laid the groundwork for a brighter future, where economic growth and social harmony can thrive hand in hand in Jamaica.

OWNET.COM

Disrupts Social Media Landscape with User-Centric

Model and

Fair Compensation for Data

By Candice Beaumont

Amanda Brilhante and her team at Ownet. com are harnessing the power of ownership to fundamentally change the social media landscape. After working in national news, Ms. Brilhante saw first-hand the injustice of the social media and became determine to change it. As a media expert, she realized how equity is a powerful unifier because those who have a stake in an enterprise benefit from its growth.

You see, traditional media takes nothing from the viewers, readers and listeners. But social media takes its users’ valuable data. So, Ms. Brilhante felt it is unfair that users have no economic participation in the social media they use. They saw an opportunity to compensate people fairly for their contributions, giving them more power and control.

With the launch of Ownet.com she created a shift in the landscape of social media. For too long, users have had little control over their data and have been at the mercy of large tech companies that profit from their information. However, Ownet.com is taking a different approach, with a user-centric model in Ownet. com, the social network that empowers users and gives them ownership in the enterprise.

At the heart of the Ownet.com platform is the idea that users should be fairly compensated for the value they bring to the platform. This compensation takes the form of a class of common stock that gives users 80% of the platform's value. This means that users will be able to profit from their data and contributions to the platform in a way that has not been possible before. Although it takes time to read all the terms and conditions for membership it seems the model for distributing shares to users is based on the company testing the waters for a crowd funding so the model is still in the beta stages and subject to changes in the future.

The transparency of Ownet.com is also a key selling point. From the start, the platform has been designed to be transparent, with clear information about how data is being used and how users are being compensated. This transparency is likely to be welcomed by users who are increasingly concerned about the use of their data by social media platforms.

However, Ownet.com is not just about compensation and transparency. The platform is also designed with a focus on empowering users and giving them a voice in how their data is used.This is in stark contrast to the network-centric model used by current big tech companies, which prioritize the network over individual users.

One of the key benefits of a usercentric model is that it allows for greater customization and personalization. Rather than being at the mercy of algorithms and network effects, users will be able to curate their own experience and tailor it to their individual needs and preferences.

With the launch of Ownet.com, a new era of social media is set to begin. The platform

promises to be user-centric, providing users with ownership and control over their data. This stands in stark contrast to the current big tech companies, which are networkcentric, retaining control and economics. The need for change in social media has been a topic of conversation for some time. Users are increasingly concerned about the use of their data by social media platforms and the lack of transparency and control they have over it. Many feel that the current model is exploitative, with users contributing hours of time and data to these platforms without receiving anything of value in return.

Ownet.com seeks to address these concerns by giving users ownership and control over their social network platform. The platform is designed to be transparent, giving users a clear understanding of how their data is being used and how they are being compensated for it. By being user-centric, Ownet.com is putting users first, ensuring that they receive the benefits of their data.

One of the key selling points of Ownet.com is the fact that users will receive 80% of the platform's value. This is a major departure

from the current model, where users have no equity in their social network and therefore no participation in the value created by their data. By providing users with ownership , Ownet.com is creating a new paradigm in social media.

The launch of Ownet.com is set to disrupt the social media landscape. The platform is likely to be welcomed by users who are increasingly concerned about the disenfranchisement of users and the use of their data by social media platforms. By providing users with ownership, Ownet.com is offering a new level of transparency and accountability that has been lacking in the industry

Overall, the launch of Ownet.com represents a significant step forward in the evolution of social media. By being user-centric, transparent, and offering compensation to users for their data, the platform has the potential to address many of the concerns that users have about current social media platforms. As such, it will be interesting to see how the platform is received by users and whether it can achieve its goal of being a truly user-centric social media platform.

MANEET AHUJA

Breaking Barriers with Forbes Iconoclast, Spotlighting the Most Critical Issues In Today’s Markets Through the World’s Most Influential Investors

By Amy Poliakoff

“It’s undeniable--tectonic shifts are impacting the global markets at an accelerating pace. As a result, investors need to be more nimble than ever, ” says Maneet Ahuja, Author and Senior Editor at Forbes.

On June 12, 2023 the Forbes Iconoclast Summit, founded by Ahuja, will once again return to New York City bringing together global titans of investing to debate the most critical issues impacting the markets and economy today.

Entering its second year, the Iconoclast Summit will provide invaluable access and transparency to an industry that is facing a multitude of stressors, ranging from the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and related lender shock, ongoing geopolitical tensions, Fed tightening, and record consumer debt. The closure of three major banking entities has introduced significant risks, prompting global investors to question the implications of this event and how to navigate.

“My hope with our inaugural summit was to try to bring a fresh ‘Forbesian’ perspective to the vast landscape of financial summits amidst a backdrop of continued economic uncertainty. One of the best conversations we had at our inaugural event was with Maverick Carter, CEO of the SpringHill Company and Marc Rowan, CEO of Apollo Global Management. It was such an interesting pairing because Mav is the architect for one of the most powerful athlete-driven businesses in the world, (which he built alongside LeBron James into a nearly billion-dollar company), and Marc Rowan is the relatively quiet head of Apollo Global, one of the largest private equity companies with over half a trillion dollars in assets under management. They come from completely different worlds and each had very different paths to success--yet they had so much chemistry. We were able to forge their two worlds together onstage by talking about their respective leadership styles and key lessons learned along the way,” said Ahuja.

Maneet Ahuja started her career in the early 2000s on Wall Street as an intern at the age of 17. She earned the nickname “Wall Street Maneet” while working in the financial institutions' department of Citigroup while simultaneously completing her undergraduate degree. As the financial crisis ramped up, journalism proved a safe

haven for Ahuja and she took a job at the Wall Street Journal, where she put her analytical chops to use as a junior member of the money and investing team. Ahuja soon found her stories featured on CNBC via a partnership between the media brands in the pre-News Corp era, leading to her being recruited by the network in early 2008.

A few months after landing at CNBC, Ahuja got her big break. Her first big story was working with hedge fund manager David Einhorn of Greenlight Capital on his short thesis on Lehman Brothers amidst the financial crisis. From there, Ahuja started building her rolodex with the world’s top hedge funds, eventually co-creating Delivering Alpha, CNBC’s marquee investor summit with Institutional Investor.

Today, “Wall Street Maneet” is Senior Editor at Forbes and holds the unique honor of being the only person on the editorial team to have been featured on the renowned Forbes “30 under 30” list. As a longtime member of the Forbes family and published author of her book, Alpha Masters: Unlocking the Genius of the World’s Top Hedge Funds, Ahuja has further entrenched herself as an industry insider whose work fosters the Iconoclast Summit’s success.

For Ahuja, following trends and understanding how the market evolves with each new cycle (or crisis) is part of the job. She sees family offices growing their influence, investing big money into the development of cutting-edge technologies for biotech and research, along with innovative solutions to the world’s most intractable problems, such as climate change and poverty.

Like understanding the market, Ahuja has an eye for leaders of the next generation as part of the team that edits the 30 under 30 Finance list for Forbes. Former 30 under 30 alum Ryan Israel, named last summer as Chief Investment Officer of Pershing Square, is considered by Ahuja to be a rising star in the industry. 26-year-old Kate Dunbar, Macro Research Lead at Bridgewater is on the climb, according to Ahuja.

“A couple of years ago, it was hard to find senior-ranking women in boardrooms across Corporate America and especially on Wall Street. I think a byproduct of the current economic environment, and everything we have been through, ME TOO, etc. that if there has been somewhat of a silver lining, it’s that we’re finally seeing a rise of women coming into their power,” said Ahuja.

One of Ahuja’s goals is to get the most prominent women on Wall Street involved in Iconoclast. With the first annual summit, there was almost an even split between male and female keynote speakers. With Iconoclast 2023, Ahuja is excited to highlight her recent cover story for the annual Money Issue of Forbes, with cover subject Mellody Hobson, President and Co-CEO of Ariel Investments, as one of her main keynotes. Beyond her role at Ariel, Hobson holds the unique title of being the only black female chair of a Fortune 500 company in the country as the chair of Starbucks.

Impactful newsmakers like Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund are on slate for Iconoclast 2023. Additional speakers include Boaz Weinstein, founder and Chief Investment Officer of Saba Capital Management, global economist and Baroness, Dambisa Moyo, and Greg Fleming, President & CEO of Rockefeller Capital Management.

Forbes Iconoclast has plans to expand to EMEA this fall and will continue to shine a light on the world’s institutional investors, pension funds, family offices, and endowments in a full-sized approach. Both Ahuja and Forbes are elevating the conversation to take a deeper dive into the shifting economic environment of 2023.

Andrew Ross Sorkin, Maneet Ahuja and Anthony Scaramucci at Forbes Iconoclast

Photo by Getty Images