The “Old Money“ Family That Controls Africa: The Oppenheimers

The extraction of Africa’s abundant resources has been secretly controlled to a select few “old money” families - such as the Oppenheimers - often hidden in plain sight. Indeed, they have dominated the global diamond industry in an era of unparalleled dominance - controlling an astonishing 85% to 90% of rough diamond distribution for over 100 years - not only in Africa, but worldwide. ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Musk Family: “Old Money“ or “New Money“?: ----------------------------------------------------------------- The Arnault Family: When $500 Billion Splits Your Children: ----------------------------------------------------------------- TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 Introduction Chapter 1: The Wealth of the Modern Oppenheimers Chapter 2: An Oppenheimer Patriarch Is Born Chapter 3: Ernest Takes Over The World’s Diamond Market Chapter 4: The Life and Times of Harry Oppenheimer Chapter 5: The Legacy and Controversies of the Oppenheimer Dynasty ----------------------------------------------------------------- In this video, we dive into the remarkable story of the Oppenheimer family, a dynasty whose influence has extended far beyond the shores of Africa, shaping the global diamond industry and beyond. We begin with an exploration of Africa’s rich natural resources and the complex socio-economic challenges it faces, setting the stage for a tale of economic prowess and strategic influence. We also on the Oppenheimer family’s dominance in the diamond industry, tracing their journey from the late 19th century to the present. We highlight the family’s ability to amass vast wealth and influence, surviving through historical upheavals such as two World Wars and the digital revolution, and avoiding controversy in the blood diamond scandal. We profile key family members, starting with Nicholas F. Oppenheimer, who has significantly expanded his wealth in recent years. His diverse investment portfolio, spanning continents and industries, is explored in detail. Nicky’s ventures, ranging from private equity investments to his involvement in the healthcare sector, illustrate the breadth of his business acumen. We then delve into the origins of the Oppenheimer dynasty, tracing back to Ernest Oppenheimer, the patriarch who established the family’s initial foothold in the diamond industry. Ernest’s rise from a young diamond buyer to a prominent business and political figure in South Africa is chronicled, showcasing his strategic mind and entrepreneurial spirit. We also shed light on the next generation of Oppenheimers, focusing on Harry Oppenheimer’s contributions to both the business world and politics. His revolutionary marketing strategies transformed the diamond industry, and his political influence is examined, particularly in the context of apartheid-era South Africa. We then shift to the controversies and ethical issues surrounding the diamond industry, particularly the accusations of monopolistic practices and the impact of cultural references like the film “Blood Diamond“ and Kanye West’s song “Diamonds From Sierra Leone.“ These cultural phenomena brought increased scrutiny to the ethical and environmental implications of diamond mining. The story culminates with the Oppenheimer family’s strategic decision in 2012 to sell their stake in De Beers, marking the end of their direct involvement in the diamond industry but not their influence in global business. We explore their subsequent investments in diverse sectors, highlighting their continued economic impact in Africa and beyond.