Recently published anti-money laundering guidance includes:
- The Government’s publication on SARs disclosures in civil litigation cases. The publication sets out the Government's position on the use of SARS in private civil litigation matters and provides guidance to help protect reporters of SARs, the subject of SARs and the integrity of the SARs regime. Firms should consider how they can apply the guidance to protect themselves and to maintain the wider effectiveness of the SARs regime.
- An updated list of high-risk third countries. Money Laundering Regulations require the UK regulated sector to apply enhanced customer due diligence in relation to high-risk countries. The government has published Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Amendment)(No.2)(High-Risk Countries) Regulations 2021 which substitutes the list of high-risk third countries specified in Schedule 3ZA with a new list. The new list replicates those countries listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
- Reminder about potential crime links in Afghanistan. The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation has issued an alert to businesses setting out a reminder that within the Taliban, there are a number of sanctioned individuals and that UN sanctions are already in place against individuals and entities associated with the Taliban.
Given this heightened risk context, those engaging or considering engaging in any financial activity in relation to Afghanistan should:
- consider conducting enhanced due diligence including in respect of entities that may be owned or controlled by designated persons
- check the consolidated list and consider seeking independent legal advice before undertaking any activity
Members of the Taliban are listed under the UN Afghanistan regime. Individuals and entities with links to the Afghan Taliban are also listed under the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida sanctions regime. Read the FCA’s statement on this issue
New anti-money laundering resources
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Consultation
The Joint Insolvency Committee consultation regarding changes to Statement of Insolvency Practice 3.1 remains open until 5 November. Give your view
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