Abstract: The present invention has as its object to provide an iridium complex represented by the general formula: [(I r H L1 L2)2(??X1)(??X2)(??X3)]X4??(1) (wherein L1 and L2 may be the same or different and each represent a monodendate neutral ligand, or each cooperate with the other to form a bidendate neutral ligand; X1, X2 and X3 may be the same or different, and each represent a halogen atom; and X4 is a counter-anion). Also, the present invention provides a novel catalyst which can achieve excellent performance as a catalyst for asymmetric synthesis, especially asymmetric hydrogenation, in terms of chemical selectivity, enantioselectivity and catalytic activity, and the like.

Abstract: The present invention has as its object to provide an iridium complex represented by the general formula: [(l r H L1 L2)2(?-X1)(?-X2)(?-X3)]X4??(1) (wherein L1 and L2 may be the same or different and each represent a monodendate neutral ligand, or each cooperate with the other to form a bidendate neutral ligand; X1, X2 and X3 may be the same or different, and each represent a halogen atom; and X4 is a counter-anion). Also, the present invention provides a novel catalyst which can achieve excellent performance as a catalyst for asymmetric synthesis, especially asymmetric hydrogenation, in terms of chemical selectivity, enantioselectivity and catalytic activity, and the like.

Abstract: A novel process for preparing an optically active amine by asymmetric hydrogenation of an imine compound, such as an imine compound prepared by condensing benzylamine and acetophenone, in the presence of a catalytic amount of an iridium-optically active phosphine complex and benzylamine or a benzylamine derivative. The present invention provides an optically active amine of high optical purity.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of enamines or imines by isomerization of allylamine derivatives is described. Allylamine derivatives represented by formula (I): ##STR1## are isomerized using as a catalyst a rhodium complex represented by formula (IV):[Rh(olefin)L].sup.+ X.sup.- (IV)to form enamines or imines represented by, respectively, formula (II) or formula (III): ##STR2## All of the symbols in the above formulae are as described. These enamines or imines are useful intermediates for the preparation of a number of organic compounds.