Early Life
Georg von Opel was born on May 4, 1966, in Kronberg im Taunus, West Germany. He is the great-grandson of Adam Opel, the founder of the German car manufacturer Opel AG. His family has resided in Switzerland since 1973, and Georg von Opel naturalized in 2014. He received his education in economics and business administration from the University of Rhode Island and the American InterContinental University, London.
Rise to Success
After completing his education, Georg von Opel initially joined the family business, Opel AG. He held various positions within the company before leaving in 2004 to pursue his own business ventures. His wealth primarily comes from his holding company, Hansa AG, which invests in listed equities and private-equity funds. He has also built a significant real estate portfolio with properties in England, Majorca, and the Swiss Alps.
Key Business Strategies
Georg von Opel’s business strategy involves investing in real estate, alternative investments, and private equity through his company, Hansa AG. Furthermore, he founded Westerberg Limited, which buys young race horses. He controls 96% of the private investment firm Athris, which has stakes in a Swiss hotel chain, a restaurant chain, and shopping centers.
Philanthropy
Georg von Opel is known for his philanthropic activities. Through the Georg and Emily von Opel Foundation, he supports various projects focused on improving the lives of underprivileged children and teenagers in developing countries.