Death, Sex & Money How the Ultra-Rich Think…and What They Fear
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Aug 5, 2025 
Evan Osnos, a Staff Writer at The New Yorker and author of 'The Haves and Have-Yachts', shares insights from his deep dive into the lives of the ultra-rich. He discusses their values, quirky fears, and the social dynamics of wealth, especially the duality of yachts as symbols of luxury and isolation. Osnos also reflects on the ethical dilemmas faced by wealthy families and their complicated relationships with societal responsibility, fame, and privacy. Get ready for a fascinating look at the mindset of the affluent elite.
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Paying Millions to Skip Yacht Line
- John Stalupi paid $15 million to skip a 3-year yacht waiting list, valuing his life at $5 million per year.
- This quantifies luxury spending as a direct measure of time and pleasure valuation.
Wealth Insulates From Accountability
- The ultra-rich often feel insulated from accountability due to their wealth.
- This creates a dangerous detachment from consequences, shown by disregard for environmental damage.
Yachts Are Flaunting, Not Investing
- Mega yachts are terrible financial investments, costing about 10% of their purchase price annually to maintain.
- Their purchase serves as a signal of wealth rather than practical utility or profit.
