The battle for control of one of Europe’s most influential family investment empires is intensifying as Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio Delfin stake plans move forward.

Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio, the son of the late billionaire founder of Luxottica, is reportedly working on a multi-billion-dollar deal to increase his ownership in the family holding company Delfin, which controls major stakes in global eyewear giant EssilorLuxottica and several European financial institutions.

The strategic move is aimed at consolidating control of the family empire and resolving a long-running inheritance dispute that has persisted since the death of founder Leonardo Del Vecchio in 2022.

The Plan to Increase the Delfin Stake

At the center of the story is the effort by Leonardo Maria Del Vecchio to significantly increase his shareholding in Delfin.

Reports indicate he has proposed buying 12.5% stakes from each of his siblings, Luca and Paola, using a right of first refusal outlined in the company’s bylaws.

If successful, the move would raise his ownership in Delfin to about 37.5%, making him the largest shareholder in the family holding company.

The stakes under negotiation are extremely valuable. Some reports suggest the combined share purchase could reach around €14 billion ($15–16 billion) depending on the final agreement.