Rich Behaviour patterns - Top 10% vs 90% of society

We all live on the same planet, but in very different worlds. Stefan Neuss, founder of WERA Capital Partners, describes three behaviours that separate the wealthiest ten per cent of society from the other 90 per cent, and explains that there is a way to move up.

According to Neuss, almost no one in the top ten per cent has a traditional job. They work for themselves and own businesses. They have learned how money and business work and use global structures to keep as much of their after-tax profit as the law allows. With this money they buy assets, which create new income for more assets. This is how wealth grows over generations.

The wealthy move in their own circles. Neuss, who lives in London, points to the city's famous private members' clubs, such as Annabel's, Mark's Club and 5 Hertford Street. Membership often means a long waiting list and a personal recommendation.

In these clubs people talk openly about business, money and opportunities. Many of us were taught not to discuss money, but Neuss says the opposite is true among the wealthy: money is one of their main topics. Business partnerships, and sometimes personal ones, often start there.

The wealthy also think differently. They avoid showing off: no big logos, no flashy designer bags. "Old money is silent," says Neuss. In addition, they rarely hold assets in their personal name, preferring the discretion of well-designed structures.

From his study of more than 500 biographies of wealthy European families, Neuss draws one clear conclusion: lasting wealth is quiet. It is found in calm places, not loud ones.

Neuss believes there has never been a better time to build wealth. One successful business or app can change everything. WERA Capital Partners has developed an online training programme that explains how the wealthy start, grow and protect businesses.