Unputdownably delicious . . . the British version of
Bad Blood . . . [but] betterTerrific . . . shows the emptiness behind the bombastA meticulously researched and enjoyably lively accountForensic and rivetingAn incredible book, transforming a complex financial scandal into a rich character dramaQuite simply one of the best books of investigative journalism I have ever read. Duncan Mavin is a natural storyteller and a brilliant sleuthLeaves little doubt that much is indeed wrong in the excessively close relationship between some financiers and politicians . . . [who] stood to gain millions of poundsMavin expertly demystifies the rise and fall of Greensill Capital and weaves an intriguing tale at the cross section of sleaze, power and greed at the heart of UK politics and global finance. A fascinating - and prescient - readThe extraordinary story of Greensill’s rise and collapse is a microcosm of global finance in the last decade . . . a keen eye for the colourful - and at times absurd - human dramaThe definitive account of Greensill Capital’s rise and spectacular meltdown . . . and a searing inquisition into the political connections that make it all possibleA classic cautionary tale, as fun to read as it is disturbing. Meticulously reported and brilliantly narratedMavin expertly unfolds a searing, unflinching, incisive, and definitively reported narrative on one of the great financial scandals of our time and the wreckage left in its wake . . . a must-read cautionary taleA keen eye for the colourful and at times absurd human drama
Pyramid of Lies is the inside story of one of the superstars of global FinTech, Lex Greensill, and the billion-pound scandal that led to his dramatic fall, from renowned journalist Duncan Mavin.
An epic true story of ambition, greed and hubris – the collapse of Greensill Capital is a billion pound scandal that shredded the reputation of a British Prime Minister.
'The British version of Bad Blood . . . [but] better' - The Sunday Times
'Terrific' - The Observer, Book of the Week
Pyramid of Lies charts the meteoric rise and spectacular downfall of Lex Greensill and his company. He had a simple idea that disrupted a trillion dollar industry and drew in Swiss bankers, global CEOs, and world leaders, including former British Prime Minister, David Cameron. But a staid business model concealed dubious practices, as Greensill made increasingly risky loans to fraudulent companies using other people’s money.
Financial journalist Duncan Mavin, who helped expose Greensill, tells the incredible story of how a former sugar-cane farmer became one of the world’s richest men before falling back to earth. With a globe-circling narrative full of scandal and intrigue, Pyramid of Lies reveals how the grubby world of shadow banking really operates.
‘Forensic and riveting’ – The New Statesman
‘Meticulously researched’ – The Daily Telegraph
Duncan Mavin is a seasoned international financial journalist, and started his career as a chartered accountant in the City and in Toronto. He has been a reporter and editor for Dow Jones publications including
The Wall Street Journal and was the
Journal’s Financial Editor for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He has also been Managing Editor for Barron’s Group and a reporter for Canada’s
National Post. He lives with his family in the UK, and is a long-suffering fan of Sunderland football club.
Pyramid of Lies is his first book.
