Big Technology Podcast Of Oligarchs and Billionaires — With Teddy Schleifer
Mar 23, 2022
Teddy Schleifer, founding partner at Puck and an expert on billionaires, dives into the world of oligarchs and their influence. He discusses the impact of sanctions on Russian oligarchs amid the Ukraine conflict and distinguishes between oligarchs and traditional billionaires. The conversation shifts to the complex connections between oligarch money and Silicon Valley, raising moral questions about investments from controversial figures. Teddy also explores how public perceptions of wealth are changing in light of geopolitical tensions.
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Oligarchs vs. Billionaires
- Russian oligarchs gained wealth through privatization of state-owned enterprises, often unfairly.
- This differs from American billionaires, whose wealth accumulation, while potentially benefiting from structural inequalities, wasn't directly handed to them by the government.
Sanctions' Logic and Effectiveness
- Western sanctions target Russian oligarchs, aiming to pressure Putin to end the war in Ukraine.
- The effectiveness of this strategy is debated, as Putin's power may have centralized, reducing oligarchs' influence.
Asset Seizures and Legality
- Governments are seizing oligarchs' yachts, apartments, and other assets.
- There are questions about the legality of seizing assets, especially those held outside Russia.
