ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING OFFICE

AML / KYC

HKMA Fines EFG Bank Over AML Control Deficiencies

By Editors | 15/08/2023

The bank failed to complete identity verification for customers that were transferred in from another FI and had other issues related to CDD and ongoing monitoring.

AML / KYC

BOT Offers Update on Implementation of Anti-Fraud Measures

By Mark Johnston | 14/07/2023

Banks have stopped sending links via SMS, email, and social media. Mobile banking users are also restricted to using just one device.

AML / KYC

SFC Issues Guidance on Crypto Licensing Transitional Arrangements

By Manesh Samtani | 05/06/2023

Crypto firms with “meaningful and substantial presence” in Hong Kong prior to 1 June 2023 can continue to provide services.

AML / KYC

HKMA: Revised AML Guideline Raises Focus on Effectiveness

By Ranamita Chakraborty | 31/05/2023

HKMA’s Carmen Chu says an external consultant has been engaged to help prepare a new guidance paper on AML/CFT controls for PEPs.

AML / KYC

SFC Chief Julia Leung Offers View Into 2023 Priorities

By Manesh Samtani | 29/04/2023

Julia Leung said the SFC will issue the new virtual assets rules in May, and that it developing a free carbon emissions calculator tool to help SMEs in climate-related reporting.

AML / KYC

Westpac Fined in Hong Kong Over Delayed Customer Reviews

By Editors | 31/01/2023

Out of 143 customers who were subject to periodic reviews between June 2016 and May 2017, there were delays in 121 customers – of which 58 were of high risk.

AML / KYC

HKMA Penalises Cathay United Bank for AML Deficiencies

By Editors | 25/09/2022

Besides CDD and EDD failures, the bank’s risk classification framework was “defective by design” and senior management oversight was “inadequate”.

Fintech / Regtech

FSTB, SFC Declare Support for STO Business in Hong Kong

By Editors | 19/09/2022

The SFC’s Elizabeth Wong said firms that are interested in STOs are encouraged to discuss their proposals with the regulator’s Fintech unit.

AML / KYC

Hong Kong Publishes ML/TF Risk Assessment Report

By Manesh Samtani | 12/07/2022

The most prominent ML threats to banks come from fraud, corruption and tax crimes. The main ML threats to the crypto sector relate to fraud and theft.