Coinage Metal Catalysts for the Addition of O–H to C=C Bonds

The direct addition of O–H bonds to C=C bonds is a very attractive way of synthesising alcohols, ethers and esters, due to the inherent atom‐ and step‐economy of the process. This microreview focuses on the development of group 11 metal catalysts in mediating these transformations. Brønsted acid catalysis has been shown to play a role in some of these processes, and this is highlighted where appropriate. The utility of these methods in organic synthesis is addressed through selected examples.