(Luxury Launches) - Is the Thai prince Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse ill-omened? It seems the only thing constant in his life are troubles first on the personal front owing to the potential successor’s marriage to an American and then his troubles took a financial turn.
In an unheard-of event, the Thai prince, heir apparent to a $40 billion wealth, was sued by American Express over non-payment of tens of thousands of dollars in overdue credit card bills in March. American Express sued the prodigal prince for $1.88 million in a dispute with a law firm. The Daily Beast shared that the legal documents filed in New York State in March revealed Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, heir to King Maha Vajiralongkorn, acceded to pay down $94,767.88 in charges he defaulted on in 2023.
Vivacharawongse, a lawyer by profession who made suburban Westchester County his home, told The Daily Beast in an email that the outstanding amount was “paid in full pursuant to the terms of the agreement.” Following the payment of the outstanding amount, American Express had reinstated the card. The Thai royal who is said to be a favorite to become the next king of Thailand landed in hot water over his nuptials to an American woman, as marriage to a foreign citizen is barred for the heir apparent under Thai law.
The complication extends to the couple’s two children who are U.S. citizens, and hence not fit to take the throne in due course of time. Vach, as the prince is nicknamed, is the son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, boasting a fortune of $40 billion.
His financial fallacy is hardly a dent on the reputation of the royal family, as the billionaire king of Thailand, who is left with practically no friends, is himself mired in multiple controversies. Despite popular sentiment, Thai laws prevent criticism of the monarch, his household, and even his pets, per The Daily Beast, but protests are becoming daring and open, hinting that this king is no favorite.
By Neha Tandon Sharma
April 4, 2024
