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Technology

Going Infinite review: Who is Sam Bankman-Fried?

A profile of “crypto king” Sam Bankman-Fried has been rushed out as his fraud trial starts in the US. Does its author Michael Lewis get to grips with his subject?

By Jacob Aron

11 October 2023

Sam Bankman-Fried

Sam Bankman-Fried leaves after pleading not guilty following his arraignment at the Manhattan Federal Court in New York City on 3 January 2023

Alamy Stock Photo

Michael Lewis

Allen Lane

About a year ago, Sam Bankman-Fried was among the richest people in the world, with an estimated wealth of $26 billion. Today, he is standing trial for allegedly stealing $10 billion in one of the biggest financial frauds in US history, according to federal prosecutors.

If you are unfamiliar with Bankman-Fried’s story, it will probably come as no surprise that…

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