February regulatory roundup: Structural shifts amid tighter supervision
After a headline-heavy January, the focus shifted to structural developments that will shape how AML frameworks operate over the next few years. Here’s a look at the February developments shaping compliance priorities and what they mean in practice for regulated firms. Catch up on January’s regulatory roundup here. The United Kingdom Companies House identity verification […]
AML compliance around the world: UK and global insights
Financial crime isn’t standing still, and neither can regulated firms. From money laundering to fraud and terrorist financing, the threats are evolving faster than traditional compliance processes can handle. Regulatory expectations are tightening, supervision is becoming more proactive, and gaps in AML frameworks can carry serious consequences for both organisations and individuals. This guide breaks […]
A misspelt name: the sanctions slip that cost Bank of Scotland £160,000
In late January, the UK’s Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) published one of its first enforcement outcomes of 2026 when it fined the Bank of Scotland £160,000 for breaching the UK’s Russian sanctions regime. For most regulated firms, sanctions breaches are a scenario that most compliance teams will dread. When they do surface, breaches […]
A complete guide to financial crime and AML compliance
Financial crime isn’t something happening on the fringes of the financial system anymore, it runs through it. From everyday fraud affecting individuals to large-scale money laundering operations moving billions, the scale and impact continue to grow. For regulated businesses, that creates a clear expectation: prevent it, detect it, and prove you’re doing both effectively. At […]
January regulatory roundup: A busy start for AML, fraud and compliance
The first few weeks of 2026 didn’t ease anyone in gently. Across Anti-Money Laundering (AML), fraud, and compliance, it felt like regulators were already collectively turning up the heat. From updates to sanctions lists and major fines for non-compliance, to shifts in digital ID policy and rising concerns around AI-driven fraud, the landscape has been anything but quiet. Here’s a […]
The UK’s move to a single sanctions list: What compliance professionals need to know
Typically imposed in response to serious issues such as human rights violations, breaches of international law, terrorism, or acts of aggression, sanctions are one of the most visible tools governments use to influence global events and behaviour. At their simplest, sanctions are legal restrictions imposed on individuals, companies, ships, and even entire countries. These restrictions can cover financial dealings, trade, […]
41 key compliance terms you should know
Master the essentials of AML, risk, and compliance in 2026 with this comprehensive glossary of 41 key terms, from AML and CDD to ESG and 6AMLD.
Nationwide handed £44m fine over weak Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and financial crime controls
Last week, Nationwide Building Society, the UK’s largest building society, was handed a £44m fine by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for financial crime failings. For a business that has graced the British high street for over 140 years with a long-standing reputation of prudence and member focus, Nationwide has become the latest target of […]
What can we learn about money laundering from Ozark?
Netflix’s Ozark vividly portrays money laundering schemes, highlighting the importance of advanced AML solutions to detect red flags, identify UBOs, and combat financial crimes effectively.
KYC 101: Understanding Know Your Customer processes and benefits
KYC (Know Your Customer) is a core control for preventing fraud, money laundering, and identity misuse. Weak identity checks expose businesses to regulatory penalties, financial loss, and reputational damage. It also underpins trust. Customers are more likely to engage with services that demonstrate strong security and data protection, particularly as fraud and breaches become more […]
How often should you conduct a KYC data review?
The frequency of conducting a Know Your Customer (KYC) data review depends on several factors, including regulatory requirements, the nature of the business relationship, and the customer’s risk profile. KYC is a core part of anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing controls, ensuring businesses can identify and verify who they are dealing with. Regulators typically […]
The far-reaching repercussions of non-compliance with AML and KYB regulations
Non-compliance with AML and KYB regulations can lead to severe legal, reputational, and financial consequences, including fines, restricted access to financial services, and international sanctions, jeopardising business operations.