Newsletter (9 Dec – 15 Dec 2024)
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Global AML News Weekly Digest. Here are the top stories making headlines around the world:
CoE Committee: Georgia Strengthens Measures Against Money Laundering
The Council of Europe Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism has acknowledged Georgia’s progress in combating money laundering and terrorism financing. The Committee highlighted amendments made by the Georgian Government to its anti-money laundering legislation in 2023, addressing deficiencies outlined in the 2020 Mutual Evaluation Report. Notably, improvements in risk assessment frameworks and oversight of virtual assets service providers have been pivotal in aligning with international AML standards. This development underscores Georgia’s commitment to strengthening its financial integrity.
Klarna Fined $50 Million for Anti-Money Laundering Defects
Sweden’s Financial Supervisory Authority (FI) has imposed a $50 million fine on Klarna for significant lapses in its anti-money laundering measures. Following an investigation covering April 2021 to March 2022, the FI identified violations in the Swedish payment firm’s compliance with AML regulations. FI’s director general, Daniel Barr, emphasized the importance of adherence to AML regulations to prevent criminal exploitation of financial services. Klarna’s shortcomings highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring robust AML frameworks within the digital payments sector.
HKMA Sanctions CITIC Over AML Breaches
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has fined China CITIC International Limited (CITIC) $514,088 (HKD 4,000,000) for violations of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO). Investigations revealed deficiencies in CITIC’s transaction monitoring systems, including incorrect implementation of detection rules and core model configurations. This action reaffirms HKMA’s commitment to enforcing compliance and enhancing the resilience of financial institutions against money laundering risks.
Exchange Bank of Canada Penalized $2.46 Million for AML Gaps
The Exchange Bank of Canada has been fined $2.46 million by FINTRAC for failing to meet AML compliance standards under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. The violations, identified during a compliance review between December 2022 and April 2024, included inadequate reporting of suspicious and large cash transactions, along with insufficient client monitoring. The penalty underscores FINTRAC’s vigilance in holding financial institutions accountable for AML obligations.
Rs 137 Crore Money-Laundering Case: ED Searches 19 Locations
India’s Directorate of Enforcement (ED) conducted extensive searches at 19 locations across Mumbai, Delhi, and Gurgaon as part of its investigation into the Suumaya-Dentsu case. Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the ED seized Indian currency worth Rs 46 lakh, foreign currency valued at Rs 4 lakh, and gold bars amounting to Rs 3.4 crore. The probe, based on an FIR by the Worli Police, alleges embezzlement of Rs 137 crore by Suumaya Industries Ltd, Dentsu Communications, and their promoters. The seized assets and incriminating documents further deepen the investigation into this financial crime.
UNODC Global Report on Human Trafficking Highlights Rising Exploitation Risks
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has published its 2024 Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, drawing attention to the increasing prevalence of child trafficking, forced labor, and forced criminality. The report attributes these trends to factors such as poverty, conflict, and climate change. Covering 156 countries, this edition provides the most comprehensive analysis since the report’s inception in 2009 and includes a dedicated chapter on Africa. The findings underline the urgent need for international collaboration to combat human trafficking and address its root causes.
Stay informed with our weekly digest, bringing you the most impactful news from around the globe. Thank you for reading!
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