Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly receiving financial assistance for their move back to the United Kingdom from British hedge fund billionaire Ian Wace. Wace, a founding partner and CEO of Marshall Wace LLP, is worth an estimated $1.2 billion and has developed a close relationship with the Duke of Sussex, according to sources speaking with Page Six.
The couple's children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, reportedly visited Wace's private island, Tanera Mor, in Scotland in July. The 800-acre island was purchased by Wace in 2017 and has undergone significant restoration. Harry also visited the island around the time of its purchase.
Personal Connections
Sources suggest a shared experience of loss may have fostered a bond between Wace and Prince Harry. Wace's first wife and two young children died in a car crash in 1994, a tragedy that echoes Prince Harry's own experience with the fatal car accident that claimed his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997.
Further connections exist through Wace's ex-wife, former model Saffron Aldridge. Aldridge reportedly maintained a close relationship with Meghan Markle, offering guidance on British aristocracy and fashion after Markle married Prince Harry in 2018. Aldridge herself is well-connected, with her half-sister being model Lily Aldridge and her ex-husband being Simon Astaire, spokesman for Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. Aldridge also shares Markle's interest in children's charities.
Members of the Wace and Aldridge families have also crossed paths with other senior royals. Saffron Aldridge and Ian Wace attended events with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Additionally, Aldridge attended a 2011 event with Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, shortly after their marriage. Ian Wace has also been photographed with Prince William and Catherine at the Ark Gala Dinner.
Relocation Details
News of Harry and Meghan's impending return to the UK emerged on August 20, marking their first potential residence in Britain since stepping back from royal duties six years prior. A source confirmed that the palace was informed of the move, including King Charles III.
Reports indicate the couple is house hunting in the Cotswolds region, an area near King Charles's Highgrove House. Their children are expected to begin school in the UK soon. Harry and Meghan will not be resuming royal duties and plan to continue their business ventures from a non-royal residence. The couple arrived in Birmingham, England, via private jet on August 26, a flight reportedly costing $120,000. They have not yet made a public appearance since their arrival.