Benko's megalomania

Fleckl: “Mateschitz would never have done that”

(Bild: Christof Birbaumer, Pressefoto ULMER / dpa Picture Alliance / picturedesk.com)

René Benko's mother-in-law has spoken publicly about her son-in-law and said that he has become megalomaniac. "An assessment that doesn't seem far-fetched given Benko's exorbitant lifestyle and his involvement in the real estate and retail sector," says Rainer Fleckl, "Krone" investment journalist in the krone.tv studio.

Benko is known to be the subject of investigations and critical scrutiny. What shadows are cast by his political connections? In particular, the "Krone" investment journalist emphasized the opaque financial structure that Benko had built up over the years.

With over 1000 companies worldwide and a large number of foundations, including those with his mother as a beneficiary, Benko apparently tried to protect his assets. However, according to Fleckl, the events of the last few months could break through this protective wall.

Fleckl also referred to the Signa Group's lack of transparency and concealment tactics. "Investors and the public were kept in the dark while Benko pushed ahead with his machinations."

"Wealth carried before him"
Flying short-haul routes in an oversized private jet, a Ferrari collection and glamorous summer parties. Benko's penchant for luxury was obvious, and while other rich people often acted more discreetly, Benko seemed to enjoy flaunting his wealth.

Very different personalities: the late Dietrich Mateschitz and Benko

(Bild: Christof Birbaumer, Pressefoto ULMER / dpa Picture Alliance / picturedesk.com)

"He really flaunted it, which really rich people don't usually do. A Didi Mateschitz would never have done that, I know that ...", says Fleckl.

Watch the full interview with Rainer Fleckl in the video above!