The Gold Episode | EMBARGOED! Episode 97

In this episode, host Tim O'Toole is joined by special guests Brad Brooks-Rubin (Arktouros) and Dr. David Soud (I.R. Consilium), as well as colleagues Collmann Griffin and Melissa Burgess (Miller & Chevalier), to discuss the many connections between gold and sanctions. The episode begins by exploring gold as a natural resource, the gold supply chain, and the difficulties of tracing gold. We also examine gold as a payment mechanism throughout history, and gold's function in foreign exchange transactions. Along the way, the episode dives into restrictions on gold in sanctions programs from the early days of the Trading with the Enemy Act through current Russia and Venezuela sanctions, cartel involvement in the gold supply chain, and use of gold as a hedge against sanctions.

Roadmap:

Gold 101

What are the risks related to Venezuela gold, despite the recent sanctions lifting in that sector?

What are the connections between gold and cartels?

How did Russia seek to use gold as part of its countersanctions strategy?  How did the United States respond?

What is the connection between gold and conflict, for example in the DRC and Sudan?  How can sanctions counter this?

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Thanks to our guests for joining us!

Brad Brooks-Rubin: https://www.arktouros.co/team/bbr

Dr. David Soud: https://irconsilium.com/david-soud/

Melissa Burgess: https://www.millerchevalier.com/professional/melissa-burgess