Gianluigi Aponte, the low-profile principal of Mediterranean Shipping Co (MSC), is still a driving force in the giant owner's operations and growth.

An in-depth report by Swiss newspapers Le Matin Dimanche and Sonntagszeitung reveals a focused businessman obsessed with the details of his empire.

At 82, Italian-born president Aponte has not really slowed down, nor changed his ascetic lifestyle, insiders said.