While Varys generates fear and suspicion, Tyrion generates loathing and ridicule, Petyr generates nothing.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?

Petyr sees through people, and he never lets his emotion gets in the way.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?

While people come and go, honored or killed, Petyr is always there.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?

In many ways, Petyr is the Joker in Westeros.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?

Petyr has no background, and no backing.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?

Petyr masterfully created the illusion of harmlessness.

FORBES: In Game of Thrones, Who's The Smartest - Tyrion, Petyr, Varys, Or Tywin?