A WEALTH OF CLAIMS
A High Court battle between the billionaire founder of Phones4U and his former protégée kicked off yesterday. Tycoon John Caudwell and financial advisor Nathalie Dauriac set up a company called Signia Wealth Management together in 2009. The firm thrived and, by 2014, had £1.47billion of assets – but their relationship soured. Bosses at Signia said Dauriac wrongfully claimed around £30,000 in expenses. Lawyers for Signia indicated this included a trip to Malaga, gifts and a birthday cake for her ex-husband. Caudwell, who wasn’t in court but is due to give evidence later, told Dauriac she was “corrupt” and should seek psychiatric help, a judge heard. But Dauriac says there was an ulterior motive behind the expenses investigation and has complained of constructive dismissal and not getting what she was due. She says she lost more than £10million worth of shares and wants compensation. All sides dispute allegations made against them. The trial continues.