Gold-Catalyzed Hydration of Haloalkynes to α-Halomethyl Ketones

A general atom-economical approach for the synthesis of α-halomethyl ketones is demonstrated through hydration of a wide range of haloalkynes. Other outstanding features include excellent yields from both alkyl- and aryl-substituted haloalkynes and wide functional group tolerance. This protocol is an alternative to conventional α-halogenation of ketones.