The people getting rich off AI are spending big on some distinctly analog status symbols (www.businessinsider.com)

Wealth generated from the booming AI industry is leading to a surge in luxury spending among newly minted millionaires. Major funding into AI startups has turned founders' stakes and employee stock options into substantial fortunes, with some recent IPOs creating instant millionaires even from non-technical roles in companies like SpaceX. As AI wealth becomes liquid, it’s not just about accumulating riches but also about investing in luxury lifestyles, with high-end watches becoming a preferred status symbol among the tech elite. Brands like Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and vintage models are increasingly sought after, elevating San Francisco's luxury watch market significantly. Beyond tangible goods, the AI elite are also investing in health and wellness, mirroring trends seen in professional sports. Longevity treatments, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and therapeutic plasma exchange, are gaining traction among tech entrepreneurs looking to optimize personal performance. Luxury experiences, too, are a focus, with demands for exclusive events and bespoke concierge services on the rise. The influx of wealth from forthcoming IPOs of companies like Anthropic and OpenAI suggests this trend will continue, redefining luxury consumption in the tech sector.