Chris Blackhurst Knihy

Too Big to Jail examines how HSBC became the Mexican drug cartel's bank of choice and how, when caught, they avoided prosecution.

From journalist Chris Blackhurst, this compelling narrative reveals how HSBC became entangled in mass money laundering for notorious drug kingpins and rogue nations, significantly contributing to one of history's deadliest drug empires. Despite its image as "the world's local bank," HSBC faced a staggering $1.9 billion fine a decade ago for its role in facilitating illicit financial activities. Between 2003 and 2010, the bank enabled El Chapo and the Sinaloa cartel to convert their dirty money into clean dollars, raising critical questions about its commitment to financial integrity. How did a bank that once prided itself on high standards of transparency become a facilitator for Mexico's richest drug lord? This extraordinary account, spanning locations from Hong Kong to London and beyond, explores HSBC's ambition to be the largest bank globally while inadvertently supporting a brutal criminal organization. Blackhurst weaves together a diverse cast, including politicians, bankers, and whistle-blowers, to interrogate the consequences of greed and the accountability of global finance. The narrative challenges readers to consider why no one faced prison time for enabling the expansion of a global drug empire, prompting reflection on the moral responsibilities within the financial system.

A must-read narrative on the billionaires running the world’s most influential football club, weaving together iconic personalities, sporting drama and boardroom deals, from award-winning journalist Chris Blackhurst.