A Level Students Explore the Hidden World of Money Laundering

We were privileged to welcome the acclaimed investigative reporter Oliver Bullough to talk to A Level Geography this week. Drawing on his latest research from his new book Everybody Loves Our Dollars, Oliver provided a jaw- dropping exposé on the murky world of international money laundering.

He started by explaining the "paradox of cash" - how high-denomination banknotes like the $100 bill are being printed in record numbers even as we move toward a cashless society and how this is linked to crime. He explained the role of tax havens and the "magical" nature of shell companies - entities that exist only on paper but allow billions to vanish across borders at the touch of a button.

Oliver particularly highlighted the rise of cryptocurrency as the ultimate tool for laundering; he explained how digital assets allow criminals to bypass traditional banks entirely, moving "dirty" money around the globe instantly and out of sight of regulators.

Thank you to Oliver for taking time to come in and give this talk while being busy on your press tour for your new release.