Delphine's appointment as the head of Christian Dior seems to form part of an effort by Bernard Arnault to cement his family's control over the LVMH empire. Many people believe that Delphine will ultimately succeed her father as president of the conglomerate.

As The Guardian reports, there is a risk of a succession battle between Delphine and her younger brother Antoine, who in December 2022 was promoted to run the holding company that manages LVMH and Bernard's colossal fortune. However, the family has refuted this claim. Speaking to The Times, Antoine said: "I know it's disappointing for a lot of people, but we actually get on well."

What's more, the board recently upped the age limit for its CEO from 75 to 80, suggesting Bernard Arnault could remain in the driving seat for another five years.

Bernard Arnault: the story of the world's third richest man