Duncan Bannatyne wouldn’t bother to pitch on ‘Dragons’ Den’.
Duncan Bannatyne wouldn’t bother to pitch on ‘Dragons’ Den’
The Scottish entrepreneur, who was an investor on the BBC show from 2005 to 2015, said he has always held to the principle of retaining 100 per cent of his businesses, unlike the businesspeople on the series who give away chunks of their firms for cash.
He told Metro: “I wouldn’t pitch on ‘Dragons’ Den’ as I have always retained 100 per cent of the businesses I have invested in.
“But if I were to champion any businesses it would be those that closely align with my own values.”
He added when asked if he is a spender or saver: “Both. I invest in long-term bonds with high interest rates, but I also spend a lot of money on my lifestyle. “There are times in your life where you must save for a specific purpose, like buying your first car or house, but it’s also important to enjoy money. I’m really enjoying my life right now.”
Duncan, who has an estimated net worth of around £511 million, added if he was down to his last £5 he would probably buy fast food.
He said: “If in dire financial straits, I might use it for a practical necessity, like a hamburger.
“However, I hope never to be in such a situation.”
When asked what the first “extravagant” he bought when he made it big, Duncan said: “My first extravagant purchase was a house. The opportunity coincided with the sale of my company, Quality Care Homes in 1996.
“I fell in love with the property.”
He also said he wouldn’t recommend heavy investment in Bitcoin and says his “guiding principle” is not regretting failing to invest in anything.
Duncan, who put cash into 36 businesses while on ‘Dragons’ Den’, added: “I don’t have any regrets – and that is very much my guiding principle.
“It’s important to be happy with the decisions you make at the time and with your position in life.
“What you do or don’t do is what makes you.
“I embrace my life's choices and don’t dwell on missed opportunities.”
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