The News
Archwell Charity Faces IRS Probe Over Alleged Money Laundering
Meghan Markle is facing scrutiny and frustration as the IRS launches an investigation into the Archwell Foundation, a charitable organization linked to her and Prince Harry.
The inquiry stems from suspicions of potential money laundering activities uncovered in the foundation's 990 tax form.
The latest tax documents have brought to light questionable financial transactions and grant-related issues, casting a shadow over Archwell's operations.
The reality check hit hard for Meghan and Harry's charity when it was disclosed in a tax filing on December 12th that the Archwell Foundation experienced an $11 million decrease in contributions in 2022 compared to its inaugural year in 2021.
While donations amounted to $13 million in 2021, the figure plummeted to just over $2 million in 2022, with almost all funds coming from two undisclosed donors.
Despite this setback, the organization still retains assets worth over $8.3 million.
In 2020, Archwell reported a mere $50,000 in donations, yet its expenses surpassed this amount, with legal fees exceeding $55,000.
These fees were associated with setting up and dismantling their previous charities, Sussex Royal and MWX Foundation.
Notably, MWX Foundation underwent a name change after being prohibited by the Queen from using the royal title.
The tax records further unveiled a significant anonymous donation of $10 million out of the $13 million raised by Archwell in 2020.
The identity and intentions of this generous contributor remain shrouded in mystery, sparking speculation that it could be a close associate or business partner of the couple.
Critics have raised doubts about the couple's utilization of Archwell, suggesting it could be a front for illicit financial activities, tax evasion, and a platform for advancing personal and political agendas.
Concerns have been raised regarding the decision to establish Archwell in Delaware, a state known for its business-friendly regulations and low taxes, often attracting entities seeking to obscure financial dealings and evade regulatory oversight.
In a bid to maintain their public image, Harry and Meghan released a polished video showcasing their engagements with military veterans, Nigerian schoolgirls, and participation in charitable events, projecting themselves as global ambassadors.
A similar promotional video was released in January in previous years, but sources speculate that the timing of the latest release was strategic, aiming to divert attention from the critical Foundation report and overshadow their royal counterparts, Prince William and Princess Kate, who had just shared a positive video highlighting their charitable endeavors.
Reports suggest that Harry and Meghan are striving to stay relevant in Hollywood circles as their influence diminishes, with even former friends like George and Amal Clooney excluding them from prestigious events.
Despite Meghan's recent signing with top agent Ari Emanuel at William Morris-Endeavor, industry insiders suggest that the agency may be contemplating severing ties due to the negative spotlight surrounding the Sussexes and their ongoing criticisms of the monarchy.
Hollywood's patience with the couple appears to be wearing thin, signaling potential challenges ahead for their professional ventures.