Monaco Symposium on Luxury explores how Gen Z and tech are redefining prestige

27/03/2025

The Principality is set to once again become the epicentre of luxury industry insights as the Monaco Symposium on Luxury returns this April, bringing together top academics and industry leaders to explore how artificial intelligence, sustainability and shifting consumer expectations are redefining the sector.

Hosted by the International University of Monaco (IUM), the sixth edition of the symposium will take place during Monaco Luxury Week from 1st to 3rd April. This year’s theme, Luxury: A Story of Heritage, Innovations and Disruptions in the AI Era, sets the tone for three days of academic and professional discussions on how artificial intelligence, environmental responsibility and shifting consumer expectations are reshaping the luxury sector.

Sessions will be held at two venues: IUM and Le Méridien Beach Plaza. The programme includes academic presentations, roundtable discussions, networking opportunities, and keynotes from leading luxury industry figures.

Exploring the future of luxury leadership

The event opens on 1st April with a keynote by Jacques-Olivier Chauvin, CEO of Fauchon Hospitality, who will discuss brand positioning in emerging markets. Nathalie Remy, a partner at Bain & Company, will present a market outlook covering luxury growth trends and structural shifts through 2028. Later, a roundtable titled What does Luxe à la Française mean in 2025? will feature speakers including Bénédicte Épinay of Comité Colbert, Luc Lesénécal of the Institut pour les Savoir-Faire Français and France’s Ambassador to Monaco, Jean d’Haussonville.

On 2nd April, the Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals Insight Summit will focus on experiential tourism and yachting. Dr. Annalisa Tarquini and Dr. Phil Klaus of IUM will present new findings on client management and luxury destination preferences. Executives from Bulgari Resorts and San Lorenzo Med will then join a roundtable discussion on client strategies in experiential yachting, followed by a keynote by Ferruccio Rossi, CEO of San Lorenzo Med, on new approaches to ultra-wealthy consumers.

The final day, 3rd April, will feature a session on AI applications in luxury branding, fashion forecasting and customer experience design. Academic presentations will continue throughout the morning, followed by a keynote by Eric Briones, CEO of Le Journal du Luxe, examining Generation Z’s growing influence on luxury markets. Briones will explore whether this generation represents a major growth pillar or a challenge for traditional luxury brands. The event will conclude with a Doctoral Colloquium and a closing reception.

Research-driven luxury insights

More than 30 research papers will be presented throughout the symposium, covering digital transformation, consumer psychology, luxury supply chains, sustainability and post-pandemic recovery. The academic component is supported by a scientific committee featuring representatives from Columbia University, HEC Paris, EDHEC, the University of British Columbia and other top institutions.

See more: Introducing IUM’s Luxury Society: the student led organisation shaping the future professionals of the industry

The symposium reflects IUM’s broader research focus on UHNWIs and the yachting industry, developed over seven years with insights from more than 350 individuals. This research informs sectors such as private aviation, real estate and hospitality, focusing on consumption trends and client engagement.

Read related:

AMWC 2025 opens in Monaco with focus on regeneration and innovation

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Photo source: Monaco Symposium on Luxury

AMWC 2025 opens in Monaco with focus on regeneration and innovation

by: Niki Borisova

27/03/2025

AMWC 2025 has officially opened in Monaco, bringing together global experts to explore the latest in regenerative aesthetics, clinical innovation, and industry trends.

The three-day congress began on Thursday 27th March at the Grimaldi Forum under the High Patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco. Now in its 23rd edition, the Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress is welcoming thousands of professionals from across the fields of aesthetic medicine, dermatology, surgery, and longevity science.

A press conference took place on the opening day. Monaco Life was present as organisers outlined key themes of the 2025 edition: regenerative medicine, minimally invasive procedures, patient safety, and clinical ethics.

This year’s congress features over 175 scientific sessions and 95 sponsored workshops, with contributions from more than 400 international speakers. Events are taking place across 13 conference rooms and are being simultaneously translated into over 60 languages.

Key themes and sessions

A pre-congress course took place on 26th March, ahead of the main programme. Reserved for VIP Platinum and Full Pass holders, the session provided in-depth, practical training led by recognised experts, with a strong focus on anatomy-based education and advanced injection techniques rooted in evidence-based practice.

The schedule on 27th March began with sessions on surgical research, dermatology, and minimally invasive genital restoration. New joiners attended anatomy and injectables training, including a live demo. Afternoon panels also featured vascular occlusion, safety, and tech innovations. A highlight of the day was the live cadaver lab, streamed from the Faculty of Medicine in Nice, with dissection and live injection demonstrations covering the forehead, lips, midface, and lower face.

*This year’s congress hosts 400+ speakers, 175 sessions, and live translation in 60+ languages across 13 rooms. Photo source: Grimaldi Forum Monaco.*

Parallel sessions are also being held on menopause and aesthetics, skin of colour, laser-based technologies, and new uses of fillers. Panels also include ‘The Science of Aging’, ‘Sexuality Insight’, and ‘Use of Threads in Facial Rejuvenation’. The AMWC Aesthetic Medicine Award was held in the afternoon of 27th March, at Auditorium Camille Blanc, now in its 12th edition, recognising innovation in clinical practice and product development.

On Friday 28th March, attention will turn to hair restoration, gynecology, and body contouring, as well as advanced techniques in chemical peeling and periorbital rejuvenation. Sessions will also address biohacking, sirtuins, and how practitioners are adapting to longevity-focused demand. Keynote addresses will cover topics such as the skin-brain axis and patient decision-making in cosmetic procedures.

Saturday 29th March will close the congress with panels on ethics and leadership in aesthetic practice, integrated approaches to aging, and surgical considerations including face and breast procedures. A session titled ‘How to Become the Best Version of the Woman in You?’ is scheduled as part of the day’s keynote presentations.

Industry meets education

The congress maintains a strong industry presence, with ongoing company symposia and live product demonstrations. Brands including Allergan Aesthetics, Galderma, Teoxane, RevitaCare, and SkinCeuticals are among those presenting this year, covering product application, formulation science, and new techniques.

Specialised content is also available for early-career professionals. The ‘New Joiners’ sessions are designed to introduce newcomers to the fundamentals of aesthetic medicine, including injectables, patient consultation, and safety.

The AMWC is organised under the scientific supervision of the Aesthetic Multispecialty Society (AMS), which supports continuing education, clinical training, and cross-disciplinary exchange.

To view the full programme, click here.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Photo source: Grimaldi Forum Monaco

Mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation for Europeans heading to the UK comes into effect this April

by: Stephanie Horsman

27/03/2025

Starting 2nd April, European travellers heading to the United Kingdom will need to obtain and present an Electronic Travel Authorisation, also known as the ETA, before departure. This new requirement applies to visitors arriving in Britain for short-term studies, leisure trips, authorised professional activities or transit.

The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation is coming into effect next month, putting the final nail in the coffin for visa-free travel between the European Union and those with third country status, such as Monaco.

Though it requires a bit of effort, the ETA is unlike a traditional visa and is touted as a simpler and faster process, with an online application system and an average processing time of just three working days.

Upon approval, the ETA is digitally linked to the traveller’s passport. It has been designed for travellers visiting the UK for leisure, business, short-term studies or those passing through in transit. It does not replace other visas needed for longer stays.

See more: Planning a UK trip? Monégasque travellers will need new entry pass from April 2025

The cost of obtaining an ETA is set at £10, roughly €12, but this price is expected to increase to €16 as of 9th April. Once issued, the ETA remains valid for two years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple short stays, with a maximum duration of six months per visit.

To apply for an ETA, visitors must provide a valid biometric passport from a country with a UK visa exemption, which includes EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, a recent high-quality digital photo, a valid email address and an electronic payment method. Since the application process is fully digital, travellers are advised to ensure all documents meet the required standards to avoid delays.

One notable exemption to the ETA requirement is for school-aged children who are 18 and under who go to the UK as part of an organised school trip. These students must carry an exit permit, a copy of their parents’ identification documents and a valid passport or identity card.

As the implementation date approaches, travellers are encouraged to apply well in advance of their departure to avoid any last-minute complications.

Applications for the ETA were opened on 5th March for European citizens and can be completed through the UK government website or via the UK ETA mobile application, available on both the App Store and Google Play.

For more information, click here.

Photo credit: Nick Fewings, Unsplash

EU citizens urged to stockpile 72 hours of essential supplies

by: Elsa Carpenter

27/03/2025

EU citizens are being encouraged to build up stores of food, water and medicines in light of “new realities” that will require “a new level of preparedness in Europe”. Whether the threat be climate related – think of floods or wild fires, for example – or a military threat, all households on the continent are being urged to gather at least 72 hours of essential supplies that could help them weather dark times.

The announcement comes following the rebranding of the Rearm Europe initiative, a programme worth up to €800 billion, as Readiness 2030. The initial objective of the initiative was to spur investment in EU defence programmes, such as the acquisition of advanced weapons and ammunition, but its reach has now spread to encompass a civilian movement of storing essential supplies in the event of disaster under the Preparedness Union Strategy.

A statement from the European Commission reads: “It comes as the European Union is facing increasingly complex crises and challenges that cannot be ignored. From growing geopolitical tensions and conflicts, hybrid and cybersecurity threats, foreign information manipulation and interference, to climate change and increasing natural disasters, the EU needs to be ready to protect its citizens and the key societal functions that are crucial for democracy and daily life.”

Within the finer details of the Preparedness Union Strategy, citizens are asked to “adopt practical measures, such as maintaining essential supplies for a minimum of 72 hours in emergencies” while public institutions, such as hospitals and schools, are encouraged to “enhance the stockpiling of critical equipment and materials”.

As part of the plans, so-called preparedness lessons are set to be integrated into school curricula across the EU.

According to Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, “New realities require a new level of preparedness in Europe. Our citizens, our Member States and our businesses need the right tools to act both to prevent crises and to react swiftly when a disaster hits. Families living in flood zones should know what to do when the waters rise. Early warning systems can prevent regions hit by wildfires from losing precious time. Europe stands ready to support Member States and trusted partners in the neighbourhood to save lives and livelihoods.”

Meanwhile, Kaja Kallas, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, stated, “Today we face an increasing number of external security challenges and a growing number of hybrid attacks in our common European space. It is clear that Europe must be stronger on all fronts and at every level of society. It is always better to prevent crises than to deal with their consequences. Our strategy is about building a comprehensive picture of the threats we face, preparing citizens including by improving their risk-awareness, stepping up civil-military cooperation, and working more closely with external partners, including NATO. Preparedness is a whole-of-government and whole-of-society challenge – today we advocate for a collective response.”

Read related:

EU defence initiative rebranded as ‘Readiness 2030’ after backlash from Italy and Spain

Photo credit: Roger Brown, Pexels

Benson Boone and Billy Idol lead blockbuster line-up for Monte-Carlo Summer Festival 2025

by: Cassandra Tanti

27/03/2025

SBM has unveiled a star-studded line-up for this year’s Monte-Carlo Summer Festival, with breakout sensation Benson Boone and punk rock legend Billy Idol headlining the programme. Revealed during a press conference on Thursday morning at Marlow, Artistic Director Alfonso Ciulla presented a dynamic mix of global icons and exciting new talent set to perform at the iconic Salle des Étoiles.

Fresh from the release of his debut album Fireworks & Rollerblades, 23-year-old Benson Boone will take the stage on 16th July in what promises to be a powerful, emotional performance. His appearance marks a bold addition to the summer festival, reflecting Ciulla’s mission to keep the programme fresh and relevant. “It was complicated to make it work for our stage,” Ciulla told Monaco Life, “but in the end, both the production and we were happy. We need to keep feeding this festival with new artists. Last year it was Jorja Smith, this year it’s Benson Boone. We’re adding fresh names and timeless legends, step by step.”

Also topping this year’s bill is Billy Idol, who will headline the prestigious Monaco Red Cross Gala on 12th July. With a career spanning over four decades, Idol brings his unmistakable voice, spiky blonde hair, and rebellious energy to Monaco for a performance that is expected to light up the Salle des Étoiles.

Ciulla, who is now in his second year helming the summer programme solo, said this year’s edition reflects the evolution of the festival. “Every year, it just keeps getting better,” he said. “I’m really excited for Benson Boone, of course, and Will Smith, because he’s such an iconic figure – not just a Hollywood actor, but a hip hop artist from my generation. Billy Idol, the Scorpions… everything in this line-up plays its part. Every artist is a brick in this beautiful wall that is the Salle des Étoiles.”

*Benson Boon and Billy Idol are headlining this year’s Monte-Carlo Summer Festival*

The line-up officially kicks off on 5th July with Goldmen, performing a tribute to Jean-Jacques Goldman in support of Fight Aids Monaco. On 24th July, electro music star Paul Kalkbrenner takes over the Salle des Étoiles in a new collaboration with Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo. On 25th July, The Dire Straits Experience with saxophonist Chris White will bring timeless British rock to the Principality, followed by German hard rock icons Scorpions on 26th July.

Hollywood star Will Smith is confirmed for 2nd August, with a show that will blend his film stardom with his hip hop roots. Kool & The Gang will deliver their signature funk on 13th August, and Italian vocal powerhouse Giorgia brings her emotional intensity to the stage on 15th August. Rounding out the season is the Motown All-Stars, who return with multiple exclusive dinner-show dates from 30th July through 10th August.

Ciulla says the magic of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival goes far beyond the music. “It’s not just a concert – it’s a real experience,” he said. “You’re so close to the artist. The lights, the atmosphere, the way the roof opens and the windows come down… it all takes place in one of the most incredible and unique live music venues in the world. A special venue for special guests.”

Tickets are now on sale, ranging from around €150 for standing concerts to €400 for a dinner show, and up to €1,900 for the Red Cross Gala.

Photo of Alfonso Ciulla, SBM Monte-Carlo Artistic Director, by Cassandra Tanti for Monaco Life

Photos: Prince Albert II of Monaco steps aboard France’s La Loire naval vessel

by: Kyriaki Topalidou

27/03/2025

Prince Albert II of Monaco received a warm welcome aboard the French Navy’s La Loire during the maritime support vessel’s scheduled stopover in the Principality earlier this week.

During a three-day stop in Monaco at the end of March, the crew onboard La Loire, a BSAM (Bâtiment de Soutien et d’Assistance Métropolitain) naval support vessel, welcomed Prince Albert for a detailed tour and presentation of the ship’s missions and operational capabilities. The Prince was joined by France’s Ambassador to Monaco, Jean d’Haussonville, and the Principality’s Acting Minister of State, Isabelle Berro-Amadeï.

Measuring an impressive 70 metres in length and weighing over 3,000 tonnes, La Loire spends up to 200 days at sea each year. To sustain this demanding schedule, two crews alternate every four months, ensuring continuous and efficient maritime operations. The French Navy currently operates four ships of this type, strategically positioned across two primary bases: two vessels in Brest and two in Toulon.

La Loire is currently taking part in SAMAR MED, an aircraft search and rescue exercise in the Mediterranean. Its duties typically involve supporting naval forces, safeguarding people and property, providing maritime assistance, and participating in maritime police missions.

To see more photographs, click on the images below: