“£1billion handshakes”: Prince Harry in talks with Goldman Sachs
Prince Harry is in talks to appear as a guest speaker for Goldman Sachs – a move that a PR guru said signals the Duke’s path towards financial independence.
The Duke of Sussex first held talks with the Goldman Sachs in November to discuss his possible appearance as a speaker for the investment firm’s interview series Talks at GS, according to the Mirror. Previous speakers have included stars such as David Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow as well as business leaders such as Walt Disney Company chairman Bob Iger.
Harry will likely speak on two subjects: mental health and the needs of military veterans, a source told CNBC.
The prince will not be paid for his appearance, but a public relations expert said it could pave the way for the Sussexes to forge new sources of income.
“They’re going to earn fortunes, whether through speeches or ambassador work – these are £1 billion handshakes,” PR consultant expert Mark Borkowski told the Mirror.
The banking giant declined to comment on the report.
Goldman Sachs has previously been criticised for its role in the financial crisis of 2007-2008 and the 2010 European sovereign debt crisis among others. In 2016, the firm paid a US$5.06 billion settlement after it acknowledged it defrauded investors during the lead-up to the US financial crisis.
Earlier this month, Harry and wife Duchess Meghan reportedly appeared as keynote speakers at a JPMorgan Chase event in Miami.