A simple and easily-used NiII complex, Ni(PPh3)2(1-naphthyl)Cl, was employed as a pre-catalyst in the Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling of benzylic pivalates with arylboronic acids, affording various tri- or diarylmethanes in good yields under mild conditions. This new protocol provides a cheap, convenient and practical alternative to synthesizing multiaryl methanes.
