The recommended frequency of AML training organised by an MLRO (Money Laundering Report Officer) is dependent upon several factors that we will cover below – but it is recommended by the Academy that training takes part at least annually. The object…

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) continues to emphasise the importance of robust and bespoke AML and financial crime training for firms operating within regulated sectors. Recent fines and publications highlight ten key training requirements th…

What is the Right Number of SARs? Is Low Reporting a Sign of Weak Compliance? And how should they be used to demonstrate the ‘effectiveness’ of a firm’s framework of anti-financial crime controls? [Updated for 2025] Financial crime professionals are…

In an era of evolving financial crime threats, the importance of robust and effective training for Financial Crime (FC) professionals cannot be overstated. Recent regulatory actions, including significant FCA fines, have laid bare the consequences o…

We’re thrilled to launch an initiative aimed at supporting professionals who are unemployed or looking to advance their careers with a new employer At GCAL, we are committed to providing tailored, role-specific solutions that meet critical learning…

It has been nearly ten years since the FCA released its Thematic Review (TR14/16) How Small Banks Manage Money Laundering and Sanctions Risk in November 2014, which highlighted critical deficiencies in financial crime systems and controls. The repor…

The FCA has taken a decisive step forward in its regulatory approach, as highlighted in its latest annual report and outcome metrics. The FCA’s message to the financial services industry is clear: firms must strengthen governance, risk management, a…

In today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, the risks of financial crime (FC) — from money laundering and sanctions evasion to terrorism financing and fraud — are more pressing than ever. So, what’s your best line of defence? Comprehensive, co…

In the evolving landscape of financial crime and terrorism financing (TF), the need for advanced investigative tools and techniques has never been greater. Open-source intelligence (OSINT) is a game-changer, offering financial crime professionals th…

As we approach the 23rd anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the critical role financial professionals play in combating terrorism financing (CTF) remains as pertinent as ever. The 9/11 attacks highlighted how terrorist groups exp…

Money-muling is not a typology every firm faces – but there are key themes from the FCA thematic review that all firms should be reviewing.

The terms Customer Due Diligence (CDD) and Know Your Customer (KYC) are often used interchangeably, though their scope is subtly different.