Oliver Bullough

Oliver Bullough, author of *Butler to the World*, discusses the troubling relationship between Russian oligarchs and the UK. He reveals how British banks facilitate the offshore economy, allowing corruption to flourish. The conversation highlights the irony of these oligarchs being embraced by British society even as their assets are seized post-Ukraine invasion. Bullough elaborates on the UK’s lack of regulatory oversight, likening its role to a butler serving the wealthy, and delves into the complex dynamics of power and wealth among these influential figures.

In a compelling discussion, Oliver Bullough, a sharp investigative journalist and author, explores how the Trump administration has exacerbated global corruption. He reveals the troubling ties between powerful figures and kleptocrats. Bullough also sheds light on Britain's role in laundering illicit funds and the complexities of U.S. corporate registration that foster opacity. Delving into money laundering techniques like smurfing, he warns of the urgent need for reform in the face of rising corruption and challenges to integrity in financial systems.

Experts discuss the world of wealthy elites buying passports, the normalisation of citizenship trade, and the power imbalances involved. They explore motivations for obtaining golden passports, racial dynamics, and the consequences of openly discussing such practices. The podcast also presents the challenges faced by small countries and the motivations behind citizenship purchases, including public service access or escape, while highlighting concerns about money laundering and tax avoidance.

Oliver Bullough, an author known for his insightful work on global corruption, joins the discussion. He unpacks the alarming ease of money laundering and how interconnected global elites use super yachts and offshore havens to shield their wealth. Bullough highlights the significant roles both the U.S. and U.K. play in fostering corrupt practices and the alarming rise of financial fraud affecting ordinary citizens. The conversation pushes for heightened transparency and reforms to combat these issues, all woven with a touch of humor.

Oliver Bullough, a journalist and author known for his work on money laundering and kleptocracy, delves into how Britain has become a hub for financial crimes. He discusses the alarming implications of this transformation and the historical roots of money laundering in London. The conversation also touches on the response to Russian oligarchs amid political unrest and the evolving UK economic crime laws. Bullough emphasizes the need for corporate transparency and the battle against corruption as vital for holding wrongdoers accountable.