Lars Windhorst: A business wunderkind falls from grace

German financier Lars Windhorst has a history of making – and losing – money. But this time, he's out to prove his doubters wrong.

863-profile-634

Lars Windhorst: out to prove his sceptics wrong

The financier Lars Windhorst came to London in 2009 in dire need of redemption following a series of "spectacular flameouts" in his native Germany, says the Financial Times. He then embarked on a major City charm offensive, throwing lavish parties at which he courted billionaires and asset managers, including L&G and Fidelity. Windhorst talked big, citing KKR and Blackstone as models for his investment firm, Sapinda. But questions about the firm's finances have been circulating for years and have now come to a head. Following a €66m lawsuit brought by an investor, court-appointed officers have seized Windhorst's private jet, art collection and wine cellar. It's a humiliating new chapter in an extraordinary career.

Subscribe to MoneyWeek

Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE

Get 6 issues free
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/mw70aro6gl1676370748.jpg

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up
MoneyWeek

MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.