AfD Stores Significant Gold Reserves in Liechtenstein
The German political party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has reportedly moved 107 kilograms of gold to Liechtenstein. This substantial transfer, which occurred in May 2022, stems from an inheritance received by the party in 2018. The gold was valued at approximately 7 million Euros at the time of its transfer, with reports indicating its value has since doubled. The move has drawn attention due to an ongoing legal challenge regarding the inheritance.
Details of the Inheritance and Transfer
The gold originates from the estate of a wealthy inventor named Rainer Strangfeld, who bequeathed his entire fortune, estimated at around 10 million Euros, to the AfD in 2018. Strangfeld, who passed away at the age of 79, had made his fortune through inventions related to urinal flushing systems. The AfD duly declared this increase in assets in its financial records. The 107 kilograms of gold, a significant portion of this inheritance, was subsequently moved to Liechtenstein in May 2022.
Legal Challenges and Party's Stance
The inheritance has become the subject of a legal dispute, with relatives of Rainer Strangfeld contesting the validity of his will. Concerns have been raised regarding Strangfeld's mental state shortly before his death, particularly given the circumstances of his suicide by self-immolation. The relatives are demanding that the AfD's access to the gold be restricted until these legal questions are definitively resolved. The AfD, for its part, maintains that the transfer of party assets abroad is not illegal, provided all necessary declarations are made, and emphasizes the transparency of its financial dealings.
Liechtenstein as a Storage Location
Liechtenstein is often regarded as a 'safe haven' for precious metals, a factor that likely influenced the AfD's decision to store its gold there. The principality has also taken steps to align its anti-money laundering regulations with European standards. Its vaults and duty-free warehouses are now subject to stringent regulations, comparable to those governing banks, which means that gold stored within its jurisdiction remains 'bankable' and can be re-entered into financial circulation at any time. This regulatory environment, combined with its reputation for security, makes Liechtenstein an attractive location for the storage of valuable assets.
5 Comments
Loubianka
The donor's mental state and suicide raise huge red flags. This inheritance is tainted.
BuggaBoom
The AfD has a right to its legally acquired inheritance, and protecting those assets is understandable. Yet, the ongoing dispute with the family highlights a moral quandary that goes beyond mere legality.
Noir Black
This isn't transparency; it's hiding assets from scrutiny. Unacceptable for a political party.
KittyKat
Securing inherited assets is a prudent financial step for any organization. However, the questions surrounding the donor's mental capacity before his death warrant a thorough investigation.
Eugene Alta
Inheritance is inheritance. They're just managing their assets wisely, as any organization would.