But the state may not be interested in a so-called global settlement.

To some degree, the notion of a global settlement has already fallen victim to America's federal system.

Most Swiss don't even want to talk about a global settlement.

"We have no interest into entering into any kind of broad global settlement," he said.

Block worked out an arrangement with three small Chicago law firms to sue it as part of a global settlement.

"It may also help to fund the $10 billion up-front payment for the global settlement," he said.

The case reached a global settlement when Poyiadjis agreed to pay $200 million.

Still, early indications are that people with a good case will not do any worse in the global settlement than in the class action.

On the emotional issue of looted art no global settlement appears possible, as gold and insurance seem to allow.

"Our goal had been to get a total global settlement," he said.