An efficient cobalt-catalyzed asymmetrichydrogenation of internal simple enamides has been developed, especially its convergent pattern for E/Z-substrates. Excellent enantioselectivity, wide substrate scope, and valuable applications were shown.
Direct condensation of β‐arylketones with acetamide afforded both Z and E enamides. The Z‐configured substrates underwent hydrogenation with excellent enantioselectivity by using the Rh/tangphos catalytic system (see scheme; tangphos=1,1′‐di‐tert‐butyl‐[2,2′]‐diphospholanyl). The product β‐arylisopropylamines are important precursors to several drugs.