Emails released as part of the Jeffrey Epstein files reveal that Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were discussed as potential shareholders in a business venture intended to raise cash for their mother, Sarah Ferguson, during her debt crisis in 2010. At the time, Beatrice was 21 and Eugenie 19.
The proposal was raised by Epstein, who was under house arrest after serving a prison sentence for soliciting a minor. Ferguson had remained in contact with him despite his conviction as her finances deteriorated. By late 2009, she was struggling with debts of around £650,000 following the collapse of her US lifestyle brand company, Hartmoor.
In the emails, Epstein introduced Ferguson to Keith Frankel, a US supplements entrepreneur. A joint venture was proposed using Ferguson's name to promote health products. On 8 March 2010, Epstein wrote to Ferguson: 'Keith just left, we should talk. He was concerned that you had the rights to use your name. He was concerned that someone said you did not want equity (the Beatrice and euge should own the shares).'
There is no evidence that shares were ever issued to the princesses, and a spokesperson for Ferguson has said that although there were talks, no shares were ultimately granted. However, the emails raise questions about whether their royal status was viewed as leverage during Ferguson's financial crisis.
On the same day, Epstein forwarded an email asking Ferguson: 'Sarah, could you or one of your daughters show [name redacted] Buckingham thanks.' Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said the sisters 'were used as bait for him.'
