King Charles Is Considering Giving Kate Middleton Royal Power Worth Billions That Hasn’t Been Granted in 115 Years

Looks like King Charles is in the mood to be generous, because he’s reportedly considering letting Kate Middleton bestow royal warrants—which are “a mark of recognition to people or companies who have regularly supplied goods or services to the Royal Household.”

And um, if that means nothing to you, basically: by bestowing a royal warrant, Kate is essentially signaling that she approves of a brand—and their revenue will likely go up due to her influence. Meanwhile, the last Princess of Wales to have the power to issue royal warrants was Queen Mary 115 years ago, so this is a pretty big deal.

According to royal expert Hilary Fordwich, who spoke to Fox, this “prestigious endorsement” is likely happening “sooner rather than later,” and “signals King Charles III’s faith in Catherine. She’ll have increasing influence as she is being groomed for such responsibilities. This is due to her poise, intelligence, tact and reliability as he is gradually delegating responsibilities to the next generation.”

Meanwhile, royal expert Ian Pelham Turner says that “The ‘Kate Effect,’ which has led to over $1 billion sales in British fashion, could be one of many reasons for King Charles to offer his daughter-in-law the ability to issue royal warrants.”

As for who Kate will award a royal warrant to, Pelham Turner says “Alexander McQueen, Kate’s go-to fashion house, is one contender, now led by Sarah Burton, who produced her Victorian lace style wedding dress… Catherine Walker and Jenny Packham are other strong contenders as their fashion has added to the style of the Princess of Wales during the past decade. It is also said Strathberry, the handbag designer, is on speed dial for all major occasions, and Catherine Zoraida for jewelry. Certainly, as I have been writing recently, William and Kate are becoming more prominent in creating decisions about a younger style monarchy and focusing ‘The Firm’ brand towards the future.”

Meanwhile, Fordwhich notes that Kate’s impact on sales is “valued at approximately £4 billion, or almost $5 billion to the British fashion industry. Her wardrobe choices result in an immediate sales surge.”