Banks emphasize risk-based compliance in their AML programs, citing it to regulators and embedding it in policy, yet many institutions still handle risk very differently in practice.
Opinion
Posted inEthics & Culture
Why boards can’t afford ‘absence of proof’ defenses
On a gray Tuesday morning, the audit seemed routine. A stack of binders sat on the table, the compliance officer was confident, and the regulator’s tone was cordial. Then came the question that changed everything.
Posted inRegulatory Enforcement
Tracing Illicit Crypto: How to leverage blockchain analytics for effective AML compliance
Cryptocurrency’s transparency can be exploited for laundering, ransomware, and darknet activity. Blockchain analytics helps trace funds and flag suspicious behavior.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Kristy Grant-Hart: Why I Chose to Be a Compliance and Ethics Officer
When people ask me why I chose to be a compliance and ethics officer, my answer is simple: because what we do changes the world.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Rezaul Karim: What the compliance profession means to me
When I look back on my career as a compliance officer, I often have mixed feelings. Of course, neither is it a glamorous job, nor is it always well understood by those outside of this profession, but it is an extremely important profession nowadays. On National Compliance Officer Day, I want to reflect on what this profession means to me, and why I believe it is more important than ever.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Alishia Farr: Building a culture of compliance
For me, being a compliance professional is not about checking boxes or reacting only when issues evolve, it’s about building and sustaining a culture. At its core, compliance is about honesty, courage, and standing firm in the moment, even when it’s uncomfortable or difficult.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Jennifer Newton: How you start is how you finish. Leading with integrity in uncertain times
In today’s world, the role of a compliance officer feels more important than ever. Political rhetoric is at an all-time high, trust in institutions is declining, and there is a growing pushback against values we once thought were non-negotiable.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Jacquelyn Pruet: Compliance of the future—A value driver, not a cost center
No budgets. No resources. Some of the worst issues our companies have to offer. Executives expecting miracles. Employees afraid to come to us. We are both the police and the shield, the answer everyone needs, and yet often given nothing to answer with.
Posted inEthics & Culture
Taneesha Routier: Compliance en blanc
I liken my career in compliance to the movie and international social staple known as “Le Diner En Blanc.”
Posted inEthics & Culture
Lisa Johnson: What the compliance profession means to me
After completing law school, I accepted a role in the Hearings group with the Nasdaq Stock Market. I did not have any previous experience or desire to enter the financial services industry, but was fascinated by the regulatory body and its goal to protect individual investor interests.
