I hope that one unintended positive consequence, more generally, is that today there is so much fake news that I’d like to think that where people once could believe anything, they are going to become much more selective and discriminating about what they believe in the future. Also, with artificial intelligence. So in the future, I think we’re going to go from believing everything we see to believing almost nothing. Because when so many things can be faked so easily, people will be obliged to investigate for themselves.
Vogue: So the value of truth will increase because of its rarity? This could be good news for journalists…
I think so, absolutely. And something very interesting related to blockchain is that every video journalist or photojournalist will be able to have the time and geolocation in blockchain to ensure that the picture cannot be faked or modified in any way, because it is certified.
Vogue: So, the truth — or at least the source material — becomes non-fungible. Can you talk about Versace? Since you announced the acquisition last month, how has the atmosphere settled within Prada Group? And how are you approaching the show in September?
Well, first we have to make the closing. Because, for now, we are technically in charge of nothing at Versace. Until the closing, we might be gathering information, but essentially, we are nothing more than a kind of spectator. So that could be the end of July or later. And as for the show, even if we have an opinion, right now, that is not up to us.
Vogue: But there must be an expanding consideration in Prada Group of this upcoming chance to express its production through the prism of another fashion identity and voice.
One of the reasons we believed Versace is an opportunity is that its identity is very different to that of the brands currently in our portfolio. And it is very important, if you are a group, that your brand identities do not overly overlap.“
