AML Conversations

In this episode of This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and John Byrne cover a wide range of pressing topics in the anti-money laundering and financial crime compliance space. They discuss the UK’s latest sanctions targeting Russian energy giants, the European Banking Authority’s report on crypto asset risks, and the Charity & Security Network’s concerns about IRS scrutiny of nonprofits. The hosts also explore a revealing OCCRP investigation into corruption linked to Iraqi Kurdistan’s ruling family and break down FinCEN’s new FAQs on suspicious activity reporting. Plus, updates on GTO extensions and staffing concerns in EU regulators.

In this timely episode, John Byrne sits down with security experts Mark Freedman and Rick Mercuri to explore the evolving landscape of physical security in corporate and financial institutions. From the rise in workplace violence and executive targeting to the challenges of securing facilities against active shooters and ATM attacks, the conversation dives deep into the realities of 2025’s threat environment. Drawing on decades of experience and recent case studies, Mark and Rick discuss how organizations must move beyond reactive measures and embrace holistic, intelligence-driven security programs. They also highlight the role of AI, the importance of tailored threat assessments, and the need for specialized talent in building resilient security infrastructures.

Dive into a world of AML challenges as experts discuss record fines facing UK law firms and Switzerland's insights on global trends. Learn how Iran is stepping towards FATF inclusion and the impact on international compliance. Discover Rabobank's innovative shift to centralize compliance leadership and Canada's efforts to combat insider threats. There's also a spotlight on Nigeria's fight against terrorist financing through crowdfunding. Plus, U.S. regulatory reforms promise to reshape community banks and redefine supervisory focuses!

In this compelling episode, John Byrne welcomes banking law expert and author Tom Vartanian for his third appearance to discuss the evolving threats and challenges in financial technology, cybersecurity, and cryptocurrency regulation. Vartanian offers a sobering look at online scams, the fragility of the Internet, and the role of financial institutions in consumer protection. The conversation also dives into the GENIUS Act, stablecoins, and the future of regulatory frameworks. It is a must-listen for professionals navigating the intersection of finance, tech, and policy.

In this episode of This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and John Byrne unpack a range of pressing developments in the financial crime prevention space. They begin with reflections on the U.S. government shutdown and its ripple effects, then dive into the newly released Trafficking in Persons Report—highlighting the disturbing use of AI in human trafficking. The conversation continues with FinCEN’s recent requests for comment on AML/CFT compliance costs and paperwork reduction, including insights into Section 314(a) data. They also explore AUSTRAC’s warning to Australian banks, the EU’s crackdown on beneficial ownership transparency, and the NYDFS leadership transition. The episode wraps with a look at declining U.S. money laundering prosecutions.

In this episode, John Byrne returns from the Missouri Bankers AML Conference to join Elliot Berman for a wide-ranging discussion on the latest developments in financial crime compliance. Topics include FinCEN’s proposed delay of investment advisor AML rules, the GENIUS Act’s digital asset regulation, and the Bank of Canada’s call for stablecoin oversight. The hosts also explore OFAC’s controversial sanctions decisions, the EU’s 19th sanctions package against Russia, DFS guidance on blockchain analytics, and FATF’s mutual evaluation training. Plus, a look at corruption investigations and Antifa’s domestic terrorism designation.

In this episode of This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and Joe McNamara cover a wide range of global financial crime compliance updates. Topics include the U.S. Treasury’s initiative to simplify SAR filings, BIS entity list implications, FINTRAC’s new ID verification rules for Canadian real estate, and Russia’s barter-based sanctions evasion. The hosts also discuss crypto regulation developments in the UK and Malta, Swiss AML reforms, underground banking trends, and AUSTRAC’s efforts to combat child exploitation.

In this week’s episode of This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and John Byrne unpack the latest regulatory developments. They begin with FinCEN Director Andrea Gacki’s recent testimony before the House Financial Services Committee, highlighting key takeaways on beneficial ownership data, SAR/CTR streamlining, and real estate’s role in money laundering. The conversation then shifts to new FinCEN guidance on geographically targeted MSB reporting and financially motivated sextortion. John and Elliot also dive into the OCC’s controversial statements on SARs and debanking. On the international front, they explore new Wolfsberg Group guidance on stablecoin issuers, FATF’s collaboration with Interpol, and Transparency International UK’s push for beneficial ownership transparency in offshore financial centers.

In this episode of AML Conversations, John Byrne speaks with Ashleigh Subramanian-Montgomery, Acting Director of the Charity & Security Network, about the complex intersection of counterterrorism policy, financial regulation, and humanitarian work. They explore the implications of recent sanctions changes in Syria, the unintended consequences of FATF Recommendation 8, and the challenges posed by de-risking and debanking practices. Ashleigh shares insights on the gendered and societal impacts of sanctions, the limitations of FATF’s new reporting mechanism, and the devastating effects of foreign aid cuts. The conversation closes with a hopeful look at cross-sector collaboration and donor engagement in support of civil society.

In this week’s episode of This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and John Byrne cover a wide range of breaking developments in the financial crime compliance space. From congressional scrutiny of Jeffrey Epstein’s financial records and FinCEN’s website overhaul to the DOJ’s seizure of fraudulent ID marketplaces, the conversation highlights the growing intersection of policy, enforcement, and technology. They also explore FATF’s new National Risk Assessment Toolkit, the UK’s sharp rise in fraud prosecutions, and the landmark “Failure to Prevent Fraud” offense now in effect. Plus, updates on FINTRAC’s enforcement actions in Canada, and FinCEN’s advisory on Chinese money laundering networks.