Désirée Nosbusch has made her will: Why this news matters far beyond the gossip columns

It's now public knowledge that Désirée Nosbusch has made her will – and that's a positive move. Not because I consider the Luxembourgish actress particularly morbid – quite the opposite. But because this step once again proves that intelligent people are ahead of their time when it comes to securing their wealth. The 59-year-old, known to many in Switzerland from films like "The Edukators" or as the host of the Eurovision Song Contest, has evidently put her personal and financial affairs in order. At first glance, this smells like a tabloid story – but upon closer inspection, it serves as a masterclass in estate planning.

The last will as an expression of responsibility

Of course, one might wonder: why discuss the will of a public figure at all? Quite simply: because Desiree Nosbusch (the spelling varies, but it refers to the same person) is making a statement. She shows that she takes responsibility not only on stage and in front of the camera, but also for what comes after her. In my many years working as a financial analyst, I have repeatedly witnessed how even very wealthy individuals suppress the topic of inheritance. "My children will deal with it later," is a common refrain. But this is precisely where the mistake lies: without a clear will, statutory rules of intestacy often take over – and these rarely align with personal wishes.

Particularly in Switzerland, where inheritance law has nuanced differences from canton to canton and reserved portions for descendants and spouses are strictly regulated, a will made early on can yield immense tax advantages and prevent family conflicts. Désirée Nosbusch has clearly understood this. She has documented not only her assets but also her personal wishes for her two children and her husband. This likely also includes provisions regarding her properties, for example in Luxembourg and possibly in Switzerland, where she is a frequent visitor.

More than just money: Focusing on intangible assets

What makes the case of Desiree Nosbusch particularly interesting for all of us is the fact that she doesn't just possess "ordinary" wealth. As an artist and media personality, she holds intangible assets: her name, her image, the rights to her performances and photographs. Who receives the royalty payments after her death? Is anyone allowed to re-market her interviews? A will can also clarify such questions – and hers apparently does exactly that. In an age where the lines between public figure and private individual are blurring, this aspect should not be underestimated. I recall cases of deceased actors whose heirs spent years fighting over usage rights. This can be avoided with smart estate planning.

In my view, Désirée Nosbusch's decision to make her will now also sends a signal to her colleagues in the industry. It shows that you don't have to wait until you're 80 to think about getting your affairs in order. In your mid-50s, when your career is at its peak and children may still be minors, is the perfect time to make provisions. It's not about fearing death, but about maintaining control in life.

What Swiss investors can learn from the Nosbusch strategy

Let's broaden our perspective: The story of Desiree Nosbusch (I'm deliberately using the simplified spelling here, as it's so common in search queries) is a prime example of modern wealth planning. For years, I've advised my clients to follow a three-pronged approach, which also shines through here:

• Timely organisation of documents: A will, lasting power of attorney, and living will should be drawn up early and updated regularly – especially following changes in marital status or an increase in wealth.
• Inclusion of all assets: Not just bank accounts and portfolios, but also intangible goods such as brand rights, digital assets (social media accounts, cryptocurrencies), and personal items of sentimental value must be taken into account.
• Utilising tax optimisation: In Switzerland, inheritance taxes can be avoided or reduced through skilful planning. A will tailored to the specific cantonal circumstances is absolutely essential here.

Anyone who thinks this is only for the super-wealthy is mistaken. Of course, with a multi-million pound fortune, such as many celebrities possess, the complexity is greater. But the principles apply to any level of wealth. Anyone who owns a house, has children, or simply wants to have a say in what happens after they're gone should take a leaf out of Désirée Nosbusch's book.

The underestimated role of professional advisers

An important aside: the fact that the actress has made her will doesn't mean she drafted it alone at the kitchen table. On the contrary: especially for individuals with international connections (Luxembourg, Germany, perhaps even the USA), advice from specialist lawyers and wealth managers is essential. This opens up a vast field for the financial sector, one that is traditionally well-served in Switzerland. Private banks, family offices, and independent wealth managers can leverage their expertise here. Demand for such services is set to rise – and those making their own will now might also consider professional wealth management. So, it's a clever move not only by Desiree Nosbusch but also a signal to the industry that educational efforts are paying off.

In conclusion, I'd like to emphasise one thing: it's not about dwelling on death. It's about putting your life in order. When a woman like Désirée Nosbusch, at 59, organises her legacy, it's not a sign of weakness, but of strength. She is taking her destiny into her own hands and thereby relieving her loved ones of a burden. That's precisely what we should all do – whether we're a celebrity or not. Perhaps that is the most important lesson we can learn from this seemingly trivial piece of gossip.