Christopher Harborne: The Billionaire Behind Brexit and Blockchain

Inside the Secretive Life of a British-Thai Aviation Tycoon and Crypto Investor

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Christopher Harborne is a name that echoes across aviation boardrooms, cryptocurrency exchanges, and the halls of UK politics—yet he remains virtually unknown to the public. Also known as Chakrit Sakunkrit in Thailand, this dual-national tycoon has quietly built a global empire that spans jet fuel logistics, blockchain technology, political influence, and defence investments. From early investments in Bitcoin to multimillion-pound donations to the Brexit Party and Boris Johnson, Harborne has positioned himself as one of the most discreet yet powerful figures in Europe’s business and political landscape.

In this article, we explore the life, ventures, and legacy of Christopher Charles Sherriff Harborne, offering a rare glimpse into how strategic anonymity and diversified investments have created one of the most influential businessmen operating behind the scenes today.

Christopher Harborne Biography: A Man of Many Identities

Who is Christopher Harborne?

Christopher Harborne, also known by his Thai name Chakrit Sakunkrit, is a British-Thai businessman with an expansive portfolio that spans aviation, crypto, defence, and politics. Born in 1962, Harborne keeps an extremely low public profile, yet his influence stretches across some of the most powerful sectors in the world.

Early Life and Education

Born in the UK, Christopher Charles Sherriff Harborne was educated at Westminster School, one of Britain’s most prestigious institutions. He later earned an MEng and MA from Cambridge University (Downing College) and completed his MBA at INSEAD in 1988. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his global business ventures.

Business Ventures: From Jet Fuel to Digital Currencies

AML Global Ltd and the Aviation Empire

Harborne made his mark in the aviation industry through AML Global Ltd, a jet fuel supply firm that services over 1,200 locations worldwide. His company has secured major U.S. government contracts, positioning it as a leader in the AML Global aviation fuel sector. As the Sherriff Global Group CEO, Harborne oversees operations ranging from fuel logistics to private aircraft sales.

AML Global Payments and Financial Infrastructure

In addition to aviation, Harborne expanded into financial services. AML Global Payments facilitates secure, cross-border financial transactions, reflecting his commitment to high-value global trade.

Innovative Tech and AI

Harborne is also the founder of Singular AI Consulting, a tech firm focusing on artificial intelligence solutions. He holds shares in Innovative Solutions and Support Inc, further proving his diversified investment strategy.

A Pioneer in Cryptocurrency Investment

Early Adoption of Digital Assets

Harborne is considered a visionary in the crypto space, having invested in Bitcoin since 2011 and Ethereum since 2014. He is a major Tether shareholder and has significant stakes in Bitfinex, which are among the top global crypto platforms.

Crypto Lawsuits and Reputation Management

Despite his crypto success, Harborne faced legal scrutiny. The Christopher Harborne defamation lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal challenged their allegations of shell companies and improper dealings. He strongly denied these claims, defending his reputation and crypto investments.

Political Influence: Donations That Moved Nations

Backing Brexit and Reform UK

One of Harborne’s most impactful roles is as a political financier. He donated £13.7 million to the Brexit Party, making him the largest individual donor during the campaign. His contributions reshaped Britain’s political landscape.

Supporting the Conservative Party

Harborne also gave £1 million to Boris Johnson, making headlines as the largest-ever individual MP donor. His support extended to the Conservative Party, solidifying his role as a quiet kingmaker in UK politics.

Defence Sector and Strategic Investments

Stakeholder in QinetiQ

Harborne owns a major stake in QinetiQ, a leading British defence firm. The company won an £80 million Ministry of Defence contract, demonstrating Harborne’s influence in national security infrastructure.

A Broader Vision

Through this and other ventures, Harborne has positioned himself as a defence industry investor, leveraging his capital in both public and private defence projects.

Philanthropy and Blockchain Advocacy

INSEAD San Francisco and Academic Donations

Harborne returned to his alma mater by funding the INSEAD San Francisco campus and launching the Harborne blockchain research fund. These efforts show his commitment to technological innovation and education.

Giving Back Through Knowledge

His philanthropy focuses on future-proofing education with investments in blockchain research and artificial intelligence studies, furthering his legacy beyond profit.

Net Worth and Asset Profile

Christopher Harborne Net Worth

While his exact net worth remains unclear due to his private nature, estimates place Christopher Harborne’s net worth around $25 million, based on ISSC shares, crypto holdings, and aviation revenue.

Hidden Wealth and Broader Holdings

Given his low public profile and expansive interests, many believe his true value could be much higher. His holdings in crypto, aviation, and defence make him a force operating quietly behind the scenes.

Christopher Harborne’s Legacy

A Man of Global Impact

From early Bitcoin investor to aviation magnate and political strategist, Harborne has quietly built a legacy across three continents. His dual identity as Chakrit Sakunkrit allows him to operate seamlessly in Thailand and the UK, blending Eastern and Western influence.

Controversial but Effective

While his political donations and crypto dealings have sparked debate, there’s no denying Harborne’s effectiveness. He exemplifies the power of money combined with anonymity.