Where'd the Kazakh Tenge come from? This is the story of the Tenge, the remarkable and unexpected currency born of chaos.

In a time when vodka was used as a savings device, as the ruble crumbled a new currency suddenly emerged.

Explore Kazakhstan's rich mining legacy! From its ancient 'ore-igins' to its role as a global critical minerals powerhouse.

Get ready to drill down into its incredible mining story! This isn't just a tale of recent discoveries; Kazakhstan boasts a history of mining that goes back centuries, with ancient tribes excavating and crafting mind-blowing gold and bronze jewelry.

You'll discover how modern industrial mining in Kazakhstan actually kicked off about 120 years ago with British entrepreneurs. Learn about the massive, programmed geological research during Soviet times that revealed immense reserves of copper, zinc, lead, and iron ore, making Kazakhstan a flagship of Soviet industry. But don't let those old stereotypes fool you – this is a dynamically developing country, leading economic and political reforms in Central Asia, and it’s very successful at attracting foreign investment.

While Kazakhstan is well-known for its oil and gas, its subsoil is also a treasure trove of critical minerals. We're talking uranium (it’s a leading global producer!), titanium sponge, tungsten, lithium, silicon, and many other rare earth and strategic materials.

The government is seriously committed to developing its mining sector, not just for raw materials but also for adding value through processing and refining right there in Kazakhstan. They're looking for fair, long-lasting partnerships, where foreign investors bring in new technologies, expertise, and training for local staff. They also prioritize sustainable practices that respect local communities and the environment – a big area where British and American companies can really shine.

Kazakhstan and Chevron: The Deal of the Century.

Today we're going into the complex, high-stakes world of post-Soviet energy. Explore how Chevron secured a massive $20 billion joint venture in Kazakhstan, home to some of the world's largest oil fields like Tengiz, Karachaganak, and Kashagan.

Learn about the pivotal and controversial American figure, James Giffen, who served as counselor to Kazakhstan's President Nazarbayev. He played a central role in brokering enormous oil deals for U.S. companies during a time of immense change, leveraging his deep connections.

These weren't just business transactions; they involved navigating challenging technical issues like high pressure and hydrogen sulfide, alongside allegations of corruption and a major U.S. investigation known as "Kazakhgate." Discover how U.S. laws like the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act intersected with international diplomacy, power struggles, and the geopolitical significance of Central Asia's vast energy resources.