Business Insider: Epstein's Playbook for Landing Billionaire Clients
Key Takeaways
- ▶ Business Insider reported Jeffrey Epstein used urgency, pressure, and persistence to secure billionaire Leslie Wexner as a client.
- ▶ Wexner granted Epstein sweeping power of attorney over his finances, an arrangement that became the foundation of Epstein's wealth.
- ▶ Wexner severed ties with Epstein after learning of his criminal activities and stepped down from L Brands in 2020.
- ▶ Epstein's business tactics allowed him to gain control over vast financial assets despite a thin track record in wealth management.
Jeffrey Epstein used urgency, pressure, and persistence to secure Leslie Wexner, the billionaire founder of L Brands, as a client, according to Business Insider.1
The report describes tactics Epstein employed when pursuing high-net-worth individuals, focusing on his relationship with Wexner, who became his most significant financial client.1
Power of Attorney Arrangement
Wexner granted Epstein sweeping power of attorney over his finances, giving the financier control over vast sums of money.1 This relationship became the foundation of Epstein’s wealth and influence in elite circles.
The power of attorney allowed Epstein to manage Wexner’s financial affairs, including control over properties, investments, and business decisions. The arrangement has been referenced in court documents from Epstein-related cases as central to understanding how Epstein amassed his fortune.
Wexner testified before Congress that he was misled by Epstein and severed ties after learning of his crimes.2
Epstein’s Client Acquisition Strategy
The tactics of urgency, pressure, and persistence appear to have been part of a broader strategy Epstein employed in business dealings.1 These methods allowed him to gain the confidence of one of America’s wealthiest individuals.
Epstein presented himself as an exclusive money manager who only accepted clients with assets above a certain threshold. Investigators later questioned whether he managed funds for anyone other than Wexner, as few clients were ever publicly identified.
The financial relationship between Wexner and Epstein lasted for years and involved numerous high-value transactions. Epstein’s role extended beyond typical wealth management functions.
Wexner’s Response
Wexner has stated in legal proceedings and public statements that he severed ties with Epstein after learning of his criminal activities. The billionaire has described himself as being misled by Epstein.
Wexner stepped down as CEO of L Brands in 2020 amid scrutiny of his relationship with Epstein and questions from shareholders. He has faced inquiries from congressional investigators about the scope and nature of his financial arrangement with Epstein.
Background
Jeffrey Epstein died in federal custody in August 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. His death was ruled a suicide by the New York City medical examiner.
Epstein was convicted in 2008 on state charges of soliciting a minor in Florida. He served 13 months in a work-release program under a controversial plea deal.
The Epstein Transparency Act, signed into law in 2026, requires federal agencies to review and release documents related to Epstein’s activities and associates. The law has prompted document releases that continue to shed light on Epstein’s network and business practices.
Leslie Wexner