# Elite Social Networking VIP Status on the Web By Anya Nikoulina | Published 2008-05-07 | Pop Culture Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/elite-social-networking-status-does-matter-even-on-the-net References: [forbes](http://www.forbes.com/2008/05/02/social-networks-vip-tech-personal-cx_nr_0502style.html) & [en.wikipedia.org](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ASmallWorld) What is seemingly a contradiction is catching on as exclusive social networking sites are gaining popularity amongst the wealthy. Participation in sites such as **aSmallWorld**, **Diamond Lounge** and **Squa.re** has more than doubled since last year as the computer savvy, rich people of the world are striving to find exclusivity on the net. Most of these networks spread through strict, invite-only policies and may involve a thorough application process referencing job status, connections and education. These elite sites claim increased privacy and allow members to focus on similar interests. As a member, one can browse the online marketplace listing yachts, cars and other high end trinkets. There are also online discussions relating to exotic travel or referrals for a good lawyer and/or plastic surgeon. 'Snobsters' belonging to aSmallWorld, the largest socialite site has membership of just over 300,000 including Naomi Campbell, Ivanka Trump and Prince Felix of Luxembourg – just to name a few. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.8/10 - Popularity: 12% | Activity: 35% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Pop Culture](https://www.trendhunter.com/popculture) > [Internet](https://www.trendhunter.com/internet) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Exclusive Social Networking:** Opportunity to create exclusive social networking platforms catering specifically to the wealthy. - **Elite Online Marketplaces:** The rise of elite online marketplaces providing a platform for luxury goods and services. - **Privacy-focused Social Networking:** Increasing demand for social networking platforms that prioritize user privacy and exclusivity. ### Who This Affects Most - **Social Networking:** Development of social networking platforms targeting the wealthy elite. - **Luxury Goods and Services:** Opportunities for online marketplaces specializing in luxury goods and services. - **Online Privacy:** Emerging industry of privacy-focused social networking platforms for exclusive communities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Invite-Only Membership Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nylon-membership.md) - [Champagne Membership Clubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prive-societe.md) - [Members-Only Retail Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mile.md) - [Luxury NFT Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/exclusible.md) - [AI-Driven Social Networks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/socialai.md) - [Membership-Based Luxury Car Clubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/luxury-car-club.md) - [Professional Networking Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/peerlist.md) - [Social Networking Hubs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/internet-social-caf.md) - [Private Influencer Social Groups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cndo.md)