Pierre-Édouard Stérin, a billionaire investor, is aiming to reshape French politics through his conservative vision. With a commitment to liberal conservatism, he has pledged substantial financial resources to bolster right-wing political initiatives in France, positioning himself as a key player in the country’s shifting political landscape.
The man behind the funding
Present at the February memorial service for Jean-Marie Le Pen, the founder of the far-right National Rally party, was François Durvye, a trusted advisor to Marine Le Pen and a discreet financier. Durvye, who works alongside Stérin at Otium Capital—an investment firm linked to the billionaire—has become an influential figure within the National Rally’s inner circle.
Stérin’s increasing prominence is noteworthy, especially given the rising support for the far-right in France. Stérin, a self-made entrepreneur and devout Catholic, recently revealed a substantial €150 million investment plan designed to combat what he terms “woke insanity” and to cultivate a political elite aimed at restoring France’s former glory.
Périclès: A project for political reform
His initiative, known as Périclès, seeks to address perceived threats to French values by supporting projects that counteract socialism, wokism, and immigration. Stérin’s aim is to enhance the influence of right-wing candidates in upcoming mayoral elections, strategically targeting urban areas where the National Rally has historically struggled.
“Immigration aside, I have few beliefs in common with the National Rally,” Stérin stated, emphasizing his desire to support a variety of political entities rather than exclusively backing Le Pen’s party.
Despite his reluctance to align directly with the National Rally, Stérin’s financial backing has led to significant contributions to the party’s efforts, including a recent investment of €2.5 million in a property linked to Le Pen’s family.
Stérin’s strategy reflects a broader trend within the French far-right, which is increasingly adopting a pro-business stance. His funding of a training academy for aspiring mayors exemplifies his commitment to nurturing political talent aligned with his vision, as the upcoming local elections present a crucial opportunity for the far-right movement.
With political tensions rising in France, Stérin’s involvement signifies a potential shift in the conservative landscape, attracting attention from both political allies and adversaries as he seeks to cultivate a new generation of leaders willing to champion his ideals.
As France navigates its complex political landscape, the influence of billionaires like Stérin may redefine traditional party dynamics, marking a significant chapter in the evolution of French conservatism.