Newsletter (12 Aug – 18 Aug 2024)
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Global AML News Weekly Digest. Here are the top stories making headlines around the world:
1. UAE Tightens Anti-Money Laundering Framework with New Amendments
The UAE government has introduced amendments to its anti-money laundering (AML) laws, aimed at strengthening the nation’s defenses against financial crime. These updates enhance technical compliance with international standards and treaties. As part of this push, a National Committee for Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism has been formed, reflecting the country’s commitment to safeguarding its financial system.
2. Luxembourg’s CSSF Fines Exceed €7 Million in AML Violations Since 2019
Luxembourg’s financial regulator, the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF), has levied over €7 million in penalties across nearly 40 cases of AML breaches over the last five years. The fines highlight the CSSF’s stringent enforcement of anti-money laundering regulations in one of Europe’s key financial hubs, as revealed by Finance Minister Gilles Roth.
3. SEC Fines OTC Link Over $1 Million for Failing to Report Suspicious Activity
OTC Link, a prominent broker-dealer in New York, has been fined $1.19 million by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for neglecting its legal obligation to file Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs). The SEC flagged the firm’s failure over a three-year period, impacting the integrity of the over-the-counter (OTC) securities market, where OTC Link operates multiple trading platforms.
4. Banque Havilland Fined €5 Million Amid Compliance Failures
Luxembourg’s financial watchdog, the CSSF, has imposed a €5 million fine on Banque Havilland following a regulatory inspection that uncovered significant AML deficiencies. The fine comes amidst broader challenges for the bank, which has seen its license revoked and placed under administration. The penalty adds to a growing list of enforcement actions within Luxembourg’s financial sector.
5. PwC Fined £15 Million by FCA for Failing to Report Fraud Concerns
The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has fined PwC £15 million for failing to alert the regulator to suspected fraudulent activities at London Capital & Finance plc (LCF). PwC encountered multiple red flags during its audit of LCF in 2016 but failed to escalate its concerns, marking the first time the FCA has penalized an audit firm for such a breach. The case underscores the critical role auditors play in financial oversight.
6. Binance Re-enters Indian Market After Paying AML Penalty
Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, is set to relaunch operations in India after resolving regulatory issues with a fine of ₹18.82 crore. The penalty was imposed in June for non-compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. Binance has since registered with India’s Financial Intelligence Unit, allowing it to resume services in the market.
Stay informed with our weekly digest, bringing you the most impactful news from around the globe. Thank you for reading!
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