Let’s Talk About Money
Christian Walter, Global CEO of PKF hospitality group
on wristwatches, stamp collections, and travelling the world
What are you currently working on?
At the moment, a great deal of my time is devoted to building an investment platform for an Eastern European client. We are, in a sense, on a buying tour, reviewing hotel investment opportunities across Europe.
Does your sense of happiness correlate with the DAX?
No. Shares are not my preferred form of investment. However, I do find it fascinating to observe how many different factors influence the development of a stock index.
Are you interested in alternative investments, such as whisky, cars, watches, or art?
In some cases, I find them more exciting than conventional investments. For example, I am still waiting for the day when my stamp collection finally increases in value. And I find the idea of wearing a beautiful watch that could, if necessary, serve as a financial safety net quite appealing.
How many people know how much you earn?
Very few. Not because I have anything to hide, but because I don’t consider it relevant.
Do you still carry cash?
Yes - it’s hard to manage entirely without cash. Tips, a candle in a church, a locker at a museum - but it’s rarely more than 200 euros.
What does wealth mean to you?
For me, wealth is not primarily financial in nature. I find intellectual and emotional wealth far more desirable.
What have you donated to recently?
To Tafel Österreich. It fits well with the industry I love: hotels and gastronomy. There is often surplus food in this sector that can be meaningfully distributed to those who need it most.
Your most pointless expense?
An Opodo Prime subscription - unfortunately, I didn’t read the fine print. Consumer protection authorities are now investigating.
Have you ever gambled with money?
Yes, at the Baden-Baden casino. I lost everything, but the stake was small. It was mainly about the experience - a very stylish setting!
When was the last time you envied someone?
Quite often, actually. When I see a jogger on my way to the office, I sometimes think: I’d love to have time for sport right now. The fact that I’d have to get up one or two hours earlier doesn’t cross my mind at that moment.
A dream that money made possible?
Due to my profession, I love historic, iconic luxury hotels. Strictly speaking, I can’t really afford them - but I do treat myself occasionally. It’s not always a rational decision, and that’s where money helps.
How much may a good dinner cost?
If I leave feeling that it was worth the price, then it can cost more. I probably spend more on food and drink over the course of my life than on anything else. Many people roll their eyes at that — but for me, it’s one of the most important things in life. A beautiful dinner brings me joy. Whether it’s a simple trattoria or a three-star restaurant doesn’t matter.
One item you would never part with?
The wristwatch my parents gave me when I graduated from university.
Does money make you sexy?
Not money itself. But what you do with it can certainly be sexy.
A luxury you wouldn’t like to give up?
The ability to travel largely without restrictions.
A dream you still want to fulfil?
I want to visit every country in the world. I’m currently at 89 - so I still have a lot ahead of me.
PKF hospitality group:
The PKF hospitality group is a globally recognised leader in hotel and tourism consulting. With around 100 advisors in 20 offices worldwide and nearly 100 years of experience, PKF provides focused services in hotels, serviced living, tourism, and leisure investments. As a service provider, it supports investors, developers, and operators in implementing trends, innovations, and solutions across the hotel, gastronomy, and living sectors. Services include feasibility studies, valuations, operator search, project development, financing advisory, asset management, research & benchmarking, and strategic consulting.
www.pkfhospitality.com
Media contact:
Martina Rozok
T +49 30 40044681
M +49 170 2355988
martina.rozok@pkfhospitality.com