Hidden Forces Lessons from the Soviet Union and the Flight to Safety | Simon Mikhailovich
Sep 16, 2021
Simon Mikhailovich, founder and Managing Partner of The Bullion Reserve, shares his profound insights as an émigré from the Soviet Union. He reflects on the harsh lessons learned from his upbringing in Leningrad and the complexities of Soviet life, linking them to today's socio-political challenges in the West. The discussion shifts to the waning faith in traditional safe havens like U.S. treasuries, highlighting gold's enduring value as a reliable investment amidst systemic risks. Mikhailovich emphasizes the importance of strategic relationships to ensure liquidity during uncertain times.
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Leningrad Siege
- Simon Mikhailovich's grandparents endured the 900-day Siege of Leningrad.
- Three of them served in the armed forces, including a military surgeon and a transportation planner.
Leaving the Soviet Union
- Mikhailovich's family left the Soviet Union in 1978 due to political awareness and discrimination.
- Exposure to relatives in Latvia with different political views influenced their decision.
Khrushchev's Impact
- Khrushchev's 1956 speech denouncing Stalin caused widespread disillusionment.
- This led to the realization that the Soviet system's ideals were a lie.