JPMorgan’s relationship with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein and his alleged ties to Google’s Sergey Brin have been further highlighted in newly disclosed emails. These emails suggest that JPMorgan went to great lengths to accommodate Epstein and facilitate connections with lucrative clients, including Brin. Court documents filed by the US Virgin Islands support claims that Epstein played a significant role as an advisor to Google and Brin, helping them manage their substantial portfolios. The emails, dating back to 2006, provide insight into how JPMorgan worked to enhance its dealings with high-profile clients.
One email from Mary Erdoes, now the CEO of JPMorgan’s asset and wealth management division, urged colleagues to establish a team in New York specifically to manage Epstein’s accounts. The email indicated that this decision was made to accommodate Epstein’s presence as an advisor to the partners. Another email from Ann Borowiec, then a managing director at JPMorgan, referenced a big new business oppy (opportunity) associated with Epstein’s work on behalf of the Google founders, specifically in regard to Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs).
Although it is unclear if Borowiec was referring to Brin, JPMorgan banker Robert A. Keller’s memo suggests a close working relationship with the Sergey Brin family office. The court documents also mention an email exchange involving JPMorgan’s CEO Jamie Dimon, who collaborated with Epstein on the bank’s acquisition of investment management firm Highbridge. In his deposition, Dimon implies that he had no prior dealings with Epstein before his arrest in 2019.
JPMorgan has acknowledged that its association with Epstein was a mistake and expressed regret for it. The bank maintains that it did not assist Epstein in committing his crimes and states that it would not have continued doing business with him if it had suspected ongoing criminal activities. Google and Brin have not yet commented on the matter.
The recent court filing is part of an ongoing legal battle between JPMorgan and the US Virgin Islands, with the territory seeking a settlement of at least $190 million. The lawsuit claims that the bank profited from Epstein’s sex trafficking operation while turning a blind eye to his illicit actions. These latest details highlight the complicated nature of the relationship between JPMorgan, Epstein, and influential clients. JPMorgan responded to the lawsuit’s allegations, stating that the bank did not have the authority to enforce any law in the US Virgin Islands.
As the case continues to unfold, it exposes the efforts made by certain entities to cultivate and maintain relationships within the complex world of high finance and powerful personalities. The revelations in these emails shed light on the extent to which JPMorgan accommodated Epstein and enhanced its dealings with high-profile clients.
