Au–Ag Bimetallic Catalysis: 3‐Alkynyl Benzofurans from Phenols via Tandem C−H Alkynylation/Oxy‐Alkynylation

The development of new methodologies enabling a facile access to valuable heterocyclic frameworks still is an important subject of research. In this context, we describe a dual catalytic cycle merging C−H alkynylation of phenols and oxy‐alkynylation of the newly introduced triple bond by using a unique redox property and the carbophilic π acidity of gold. Mechanistic studies support the participation of a bimetallic gold–silver species. The one‐pot protocol offers a direct, simple, and regio‐specific approach to 3‐alkynyl benzofurans from readily available phenols. A broad range of substrates, including heterocycles, is transferred with excellent functional group tolerance. Thus, this methodology can be used for the late‐stage incorporation of benzofurans.