Hugo Cordell, media and industrial tycoon, dies when his plane explodes between Geneva and Paris.

In Paris, the directors of 'Globe', the Cordell empire's flagship French weekly, anxiously await the arrival of Hugo Cordell's heir Bart (Jean-Paul Belmondo), who wishes to read the last issue before it goes to press.

On the flight back from the United States Bart flirts with the seductive Lauren (Maureen Kerwin), who slips a baggage claim-check into his pocket.

He understands perfectly that his arrival to head the Cordell empire does not meet with universal approval.

Aided by his faithful friend, David (Charles Denner), he decides to conduct his own investigation.