American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels and Scandals Season 5 Episode 8 Fraudster of the Opera/Frozen Assets

American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels, and Scandals is a true crime television series that airs on CNBC. In season 5, episode 8, titled "Fraudster of the Opera/Frozen Assets," viewers are taken on a ride through two high-profile financial fraud cases.

The first case follows Alberto Vilar, a Cuban-American money manager who amassed a $3 billion fortune by investing in technology startups and opera companies. However, his success was short-lived as Vilar was later convicted of fraud, theft, and money laundering. Viewers will learn how Vilar promised to invest millions of his clients' money but instead used it for personal expenses and to fund his lavish lifestyle. The episode delves into Vilar's rise and fall, and how he was able to con so many wealthy clients into investing their money with him.

The second case revolves around the infamous Allen Stanford, a Texan billionaire who built a financial empire by selling bogus certificates of deposit. Stanford was once a highly respected businessman who owned a bank and a cricket team, and had close ties to politicians and celebrities. However, his empire came crumbling down when the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed charges against him for running a multi-billion dollar Ponzi scheme. Viewers will learn how Stanford convinced investors from around the world to trust him with their savings, and how he was able to evade authorities for so long.

Both cases present a cautionary tale of how greed and deceit can bring down even the most seemingly successful and respected individuals. The episode highlights the devastating impact financial fraud can have on victims, and how it can erode trust in markets and institutions.

Overall, "Fraudster of the Opera/Frozen Assets" is a riveting episode that offers an in-depth look at two high-profile financial fraud cases. It showcases the lengths some individuals will go to in pursuit of money and power, and the devastating effects their actions can have. American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels, and Scandals is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime, financial fraud, or the darker side of the American Dream.