Prince Andrew arranged a private tour of Buckingham Palace while the late Queen was in residence for businessmen from a cryptocurrency firm that agreed to pay his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson up to £1.4m, the BBC reveals.
Jay Bloom and colleague Michael Evers were driven through the palace gates after being collected from their luxury hotel for their visit in June 2019.
Bloom's firm, Pegasus Group Holdings, had employed Ferguson as a brand ambassador for a cryptocurrency venture that ultimately failed, losing investors millions shortly after launch.
Ferguson's contract with Pegasus stipulated premium travel and promotional requirements while she was also poised to receive a substantial bonus.
The itinerary raised questions about Andrew's longstanding connections with businesses, as his royal influence is increasingly scrutinized. Recent discussions centered on Buckingham Palace's notification of stripping Andrew of his royal titles amidst growing criticism over Epstein links.
The revelations connect Andrew and Ferguson's financial practices to risky ventures, conflicting with their royal responsibilities and igniting discussions about privilege and accountability within the monarchy.
