Geld: Der Millionenerbe, der die Millionen nicht will

Kai Viehof, a self-described million-dollar heir, does not fit the typical millionaire archetype. Standing with modest shoulders beneath a black T-shirt and black shirt, he sports a light beard and wears earrings in both ears. He appeared rather reserved in an ARD talk show, "Hart aber fair," discussing the topic of inheritance.

Less flamboyant than one of his counterparts, a similarly wealthy electrical engineering entrepreneur from Neuss with a commanding presence and a blazer, Viehof's grandfather built the retail chain "Allkauf" in the 1960s, which he sold to Metro AG for about a billion marks in 1998. The fortune his family received, but Viehof declined his share when it was his turn.

At 44 years old, he is a new face among millionaires who prefer to distribute their wealth rather than accumulate more.

A significant portion of private wealth in Germany, according to the Deutsche Institut für Wirtschaftsforschung, is not earned but comes as inheritance or gifts. Only the United States and China have more ultra-high net worth individuals than Germany, with 27% of Germany's financial wealth. Despite his reluctance to embrace his inheritance, Viehof has chosen to speak publicly about the issue.

He emphasizes that he doesn't view discussions about wealth distribution as jealousy debates, but as a central debate that everyone should engage in. This includes himself. He decided to donate or invest seven-eighths of the two-digit million sum he had already received. His primary focus is on spending money meaningfully until it's gone.