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UK financial services regulators lay down a marker on money laundering in the capital markets
In a report published on 10 June, the Financial Conduct Authority has set out its assessment of the money laundering risks and vulnerabilities in the capital markets. The report recognises that this is an area that historically may not have been specifically addressed by firms’ systems and controls. Although it is aimed at helping firms with developing appropriate compliance arrangements rather than formally assessing or criticising firms’ systems and controls, it identifies some areas in which the FCA has found a lack of awareness of risks and provides firms with clear reminders of their obligations under UK financial services and wider anti-money laundering (“AML”) legislation. Some of the FCA’s largest fines to date have been imposed for AML related shortcomings in relation to wholesale markets activity. The report reminds firms and individuals in all sectors that enforcement in this area is a priority.