Anthony Ritossa, long associated with controversy in the family office sector, is quietly attempting a return. After years of legal troubles, fraud allegations, and public scrutiny, Ritossa is organizing high-profile events under the “Global Family Office Investment Summit” brand in Dubai and Miami. Though his name no longer appears on official materials, credible sources confirm he remains the mastermind behind these events.
A Brief Look at Anthony Ritossa
Ritossa once portrayed himself as a prominent figure in the family office space, claiming Venetian ancestry and an olive oil fortune. He styled himself as “Sir Anthony Ritossa” and falsely claimed prestigious credentials like a Harvard MBA. However, investigations by Vanity Fair, Bloomberg, and others exposed these claims as fraudulent.
Key revelations include:
- Fabricated Titles: Reports described him as a “self-styled knight” and a “Wall Street washout.”
- False Wealth Claims: A Croatian olive cooperative confirmed he owned no olive trees, despite his claims.
- Legal Issues: Ritossa has faced multiple arrests, including allegations of domestic violence, theft, and unpaid child support. A warrant for his arrest is still active in New York.
The Scandals Uncovered
Ritossa’s facade collapsed with Vanity Fair’s 2022 exposé, which highlighted:
- Defaulted financial obligations, including nearly $500,000 in unpaid child support and credit card debt.
- Misrepresentation of credentials, leading entities like the Palace of Monaco to withdraw their patronage.
- A compromised LinkedIn profile, which still lists him as “Chairman Ritossa Family Office,” despite SWFI disclaiming any connection to his events.
The Attempted Comeback
Despite his tarnished reputation, Ritossa continues to promote summits:
- The 23rd Global Family Office Investment Summit was held in Dubai in December 2024.
- The 24th edition is scheduled for February 2025 in Miami. The agendas omit his name, likely to distance the events from his past.
Ritossa still commands significant influence on LinkedIn, with over 63,000 followers and positive responses to his summit promotions. However, these developments highlight the lack of due diligence within the family office community.
Implications for the Family Office Industry
Ritossa’s resurgence underscores vulnerabilities in the family office ecosystem. Despite well-documented fraud, he exploits the sector’s emphasis on exclusivity and prestige to regain a foothold. This highlights the urgent need for increased scrutiny of organizers and participants.
Recommendations for Due Diligence
To safeguard the industry, stakeholders should:
- Verify event organizers’ credentials.
- Research speakers and affiliations.
- Confirm compliance with regulations.
- Consult trusted databases and authorities.
- Avoid participation if doubts arise.
As Ritossa’s Miami summit nears, it serves as a cautionary tale for the family office world. Diligence and vigilance are vital to preserving the community’s integrity.
