London: Former Barclays CEO Jes Staley admitted to sleeping with a staff member of Jeffrey Epstein.
His statement came during an appeal against a financial services ban by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Staley faces a £1.8 million ($2.3 million) fine for allegedly misleading regulators about his Epstein ties.
The 68-year-old banker denies knowing about Epstein’s illegal activities before his 2019 arrest.
He is testifying at London’s Upper Tribunal to contest the FCA’s proposed ban.
FCA’s Claims
The FCA cites over 1,000 emails between Staley and Epstein as evidence of their close friendship.
Staley once called Epstein “family” and described their relationship as “profound.”
Authorities claim Staley misled Barclays and regulators about his last contact with Epstein.
In a 2019 letter, Barclays stated that Staley’s connection with Epstein was not close.
Staley insists the letter’s claims were accurate despite contradicting evidence.
Past Connections
Staley previously headed JPMorgan’s private bank, where Epstein was a client.
JPMorgan faced lawsuits for allegedly ignoring Epstein’s involvement in sex trafficking.
The US Virgin Islands sued JPMorgan, which then countersued Staley before settling the case.
Epstein once asked Staley to be a trustee of his estate, which Staley declined.
During US litigation, Staley confirmed meeting Epstein’s staff member at his brother’s apartment.
Email Evidence
The FCA presented an email exchange where Staley referenced “Snow White” to Epstein.
When Epstein asked, “What character would you like next?” Staley replied, “Beauty and the Beast.”
Staley claims he does not recall these messages, despite FCA’s evidence.
Regulators argue these emails demonstrate a deeper connection between Staley and Epstein.
The FCA maintains that Staley deliberately downplayed their relationship.
Ongoing Case
Staley continues to fight the proposed FCA ban, stating he was truthful in all regulatory matters.
The tribunal’s decision will determine whether Staley can work in financial services again.
His appeal focuses on whether the FCA’s findings misrepresent his statements about Epstein.
The case highlights the financial world’s scrutiny over past connections with Epstein.
The ruling could impact how regulators handle similar cases in the future.
