AML Conversations

Episodes

• Fed Independence, Sanctions Lessons, and Global Financial Crime Risks 05.06.2026 18m

  In this episode of This Week in AML, John Byrne and Elliot Berman break down key developments shaping the financial crime and compliance landscape. The conversation opens with reflections on Federal Reserve independence following Chair Jerome Powell’s recent remarks, before turning to U.S. policy updates and bipartisan actions with implications for governance and oversight. The discussion then shifts to practical compliance takeaways, including OFAC’s newly released sanctions overview and a $1 million settlement highlighting how sanctions risks can arise through indirect client relationships. Internationally, the hosts examine Finland’s national money‑laundering risk assessment, the evolving EU transparency rules on beneficial ownership, and growing concerns about human trafficking linked to major global sporting events. The episode also explores ongoing investigations into fintech and payments firms, emerging risks in cross‑border money movement, and a new Basel working paper on stablecoin liquidity and regulation.
• Monthly Chat with Sarah Beth Felix 04.06.2026 27m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, John Byrne is joined by Sarah Beth Felix, author of Dirty Money Weekly, for an in-depth discussion on the biggest developments impacting financial crime compliance professionals. From recent OCC and FDIC consent orders to evolving executive orders shaping fintech and AML regulation, Sarah shares sharp, practical insights drawn from the front lines. The conversation highlights why “a clean audit is not a good audit,” the risks hidden in fintech-bank partnerships, and how even small institutions can fall into critical compliance gaps. Sarah also breaks down the real-world challenges posed by new policy directives—and why many may be harder to implement than they appear. The episode closes with a must-hear reminder for AML teams: focus on what truly matters—identifying and reporting suspicious activity that law enforcement can actually use. If you’re not getting feedback on your SARs, it may be time to take a closer look at your program.
• Recent Trends in Due Diligence 03.06.2026 17m

  In this episode of Third Party Risk Perspectives, Elliot Berman is joined by Christopher Sindik of Blue Umbrella to break down the latest trends shaping due diligence and third-party risk management in 2026. Drawing on real client data and global insights, they explore how shifting supply chains are driving a 15% migration in due diligence activity across regions, particularly toward India and Latin America. They also discuss the growing demand for deeper investigative methods, including reputational inquiries and on-the-ground site visits, which have seen a notable rise as organizations seek to validate what can’t always be uncovered through desktop research alone. Finally, the conversation dives into the growing importance of identifying ultimate beneficial ownership (UBO), as organizations go beyond surface-level ownership to uncover hidden risks amid evolving global regulations. Whether you're navigating new markets or strengthening your compliance framework, this episode offers practical insights to help you stay ahead of emerging third-party risks.
• From AML to AI - Denisse Rudich on What Regulators Are Really Doing with Artificial Intelligence 29.05.2026 37m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, host Vesna McCreery sits down with Denisse Rudich - financial crime expert, regulatory advisor, and FCA AI Lab cohort participant - to explore how regulators are stepping up to shape the responsible adoption of AI in financial services. Denisse makes a compelling case that innovation and regulation are not at odds, but deeply intertwined, as she walks through the remarkable ecosystem the FCA has built to stay ahead of a rapidly changing technological landscape.
• Global AML Shifts, Crypto Crackdowns, and the AI Governance Debate 29.05.2026 23m

  This week, Elliot Berman and John Byrne break down major global developments shaping financial crime compliance. From AUSTRAC’s latest report on terrorism financing risks in nonprofits to FINTRAC’s role in a major Canadian corruption investigation, the conversation highlights how financial intelligence units continue to prove their value. They also explore growing international coordination efforts—including AMLA’s push to standardize suspicious transaction reporting across the EU—and key insights from the Wolfsberg Forum on innovation, AI, and information sharing. On the U.S. front, the discussion turns to regulatory tensions in crypto and prediction markets, new enforcement actions impacting fintech-driven banks, and the ongoing debate around meaningful BSA/AML reform. Plus, a major Bitcoin ATM operator files for bankruptcy amid tightening regulations, and the episode closes with a thought-provoking look at AI governance—from enterprise strategy to global ethical considerations.
• AI Trends in Financial Crime Prevention with Abhishek Mittal 27.05.2026 29m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, host Elliot Berman sits down with Abhishek Mittal, Executive Vice President and Chief Product & AI Officer at AML RightSource, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the financial crime prevention landscape. Abhishek makes a compelling case that domain experts are more valuable than ever — not despite AI, but because of it — as they become essential architects of the taxonomies, context, and judgment that make AI systems reliable and auditable. The conversation covers how organizations can effectively blend domain knowledge with AI engineering, why guardrails must be built on a foundation of sound architecture rather than technology alone, and what it really takes to get your data ready for AI. Abhishek also addresses the blurring line between services and software, and closes with a myth-busting take on what AI can and can't do — including why equating large language models with AI itself may be the industry's biggest misconception today.
• Executive Orders, Crypto Access, & Global Crackdowns 22.05.2026 17m

  This week, Elliot Berman and John Byrne unpack a wave of fast-moving developments impacting the financial crime and banking landscape. They begin by reflecting on Barney Frank's legacy and his lasting influence on U.S. financial regulation. The conversation then turns to a newly issued executive order, Restoring Integrity to America’s Financial System, and what it could mean for financial institutions—from heightened scrutiny around immigration-related risks to potential shifts in crypto access to the Federal Reserve system. They also examine the latest developments in the Clarity Act, a controversial DOJ “anti-weaponization” fund, new OFAC sanctions targeting global networks, allegations of cartel-linked gold entering the U.S. Mint supply chain, and Interpol’s major cybercrime crackdown across the Middle East and Africa.
• FinCEN Alerts, Crypto Clarity Act Showdown, and Global AML Crackdowns 15.05.2026 20m

  This week, Elliot Berman and John Byrne break down a packed slate of AML and financial crime developments shaping the global landscape. They start in the U.S. with two new FinCEN alerts—one highlighting Iran’s use of front companies, digital assets, and complex corporate structures to evade sanctions, and another warning of heightened human trafficking risks tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The conversation expands into broader trafficking concerns From there, they unpack the OCC’s latest risk perspective, emphasizing persistent cyber threats, rising fraud sophistication, and mounting pressure on compliance systems amid geopolitical tensions. On Capitol Hill, attention turns to the Clarity Act and its push to build a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies—alongside mounting concerns from banks and law enforcement about stablecoins, AML enforcement, and investigative visibility. Internationally, they discuss Canada’s dramatic increase in AML penalties, AUSTRAC’s updated risk outlook and virtual asset focus, Switzerland’s proposed AML rule changes, and The EU’s push toward a unified anti-corruption strategy.
• Canada’s Crypto Crackdown, Global AML Shifts, and New Fronts in Financial Crime 08.05.2026 19m

  In this episode of This Week in AML, John and Elliot cover a wide range of financial crime and compliance developments from around the globe. John opens by honoring the Foley Foundation's annual Freedom Awards dinner, recognizing the organization's vital work advocating for American hostages and journalist safety. The conversation then turns to Canada, with updates on a newly introduced bill to establish a Financial Crime Agency, a proposed ban on crypto ATMs, and recent FinTrac monetary penalties across the real estate, banking, and precious metals sectors. Internationally, they cover the FCA's preparations for the UK's new crypto asset regime taking full effect in 2027, Denmark's FSA referral of Nordea Bank to police over customer due diligence failures, and Europol's launch of a new EU anti-scam intelligence sharing platform. Back in the U.S., John highlights new research from the Anti-Corruption Data Collective on suspicious win rates in prediction market defense and military sectors, the retirement and recognition of Guy Fico, the passing of RICO statute architect Bob Blakey, and the Manhattan DA's return of over 650 antiquities to India. The episode closes with updates on the DOJ's decision to drop its investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, concerns over judicial nominees, and a preview of the AML Partnership Forum's upcoming May 28th webinar on financial access challenges domestically and globally.
• Monthly Chat with Sarah Beth Felix 07.05.2026 28m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, John Byrne is joined by Sarah Beth Felix, author of Dirty Money Weekly, for an in-depth discussion on the evolving state of AML and BSA reform. Recorded at the close of April, the conversation examines FinCEN’s proposed AML program rule, with a critical look at how concepts like “effectiveness,” “risk-based approach,” and “reasonably designed” are used—and often left undefined. Sarah and John also dig into FinCEN’s latest annual report, ongoing challenges with SAR data and form design, and what proposed changes could mean for enforcement consistency and regulatory bottlenecks. The episode explores emerging issues, including the PACE Act, AML model validation, and what meaningful modernization of the Bank Secrecy Act should prioritize ahead of an upcoming congressional hearing on BSA reform.
• Italy’s FATF Review, New Russia Sanctions, and the Growing Risk of Prediction Markets 01.05.2026 16m

  In this episode of This Week in AML, Elliot and John unpack a busy week in global financial crime and enforcement. They start with Italy’s latest FATF mutual evaluation, exploring what regulators praised, where weaknesses remain, and what it might signal for other jurisdictions. The conversation then shifts to the EU’s newly adopted Russia sanctions package, including expanded financial and crypto restrictions and fresh anti-circumvention tools. They also highlight key investigations and enforcement actions from France, Moldova, Switzerland, and the OCCRP’s latest reporting. In the U.S., the discussion turns to prediction markets, as the CFTC sues New York over regulatory authority, and a controversial DOJ case involving alleged insider betting raises thorny questions about national security, ethics, and enforcement priorities. The episode closes with updates on DOJ staffing cuts, recent indictments, and transparency litigation tied to the Epstein files.
• Beneficial Ownership Battles, Crypto Regulation, and Global AML Standards 24.04.2026 18m

  In this week’s episode of This Week in AML, with Elliot traveling, Joe McNamara joins John Byrne to break down a busy week in global compliance news. The big domestic story is the Corporate Transparency Act, where the House Financial Services Committee passed a bill to repeal the CTA for domestic entities - but only by a single vote. The hosts unpack what that means, where the legislation goes from here, and why a separate threat to withhold FinCEN's entire budget adds another layer of uncertainty to an already complicated picture. North of the border, Canada's FINTRAC has rolled out updates to its administrative monetary penalty framework, including a notable elevation of certain compliance program violations from serious to very serious. Internationally, Transparency International had a busy week - launching a new Anti-Corruption Resource Center, announcing the EU's first Anti-Corruption Directive, and publishing a working paper on professional enablers implicated in illicit financial flows from Africa. AMLA is also moving forward with two public consultations on risk assessment and compliance standards, with hearings scheduled for May 20th and May 28th. Across the pond, the FCA is pressing ahead with the UK's crypto regulatory regime, targeting October 2027 for full implementation - with rules expected this summer and firm authorization applications opening in September 2026. The episode closes with a look at FATF's latest ministerial declaration, a heads-up on OCCRP's coverage of the CTA repeal, and a walkthrough of FinCEN's 2025 Year in Review - a document the hosts recommend as essential reading for any BSA professional. Plus, a preview of AML RightSource's upcoming May webinar on global financial access and a recent AML Conversations episode featuring former IRS CI Special Agent in Charge Paul Camacho.
• Why Fintechs Are Turning to OCC Limited Purpose Trust Charters 22.04.2026 30m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, Elliot Berman is joined by Jennie Jonas, Senior Vice President of Financial Crime Advisory, to discuss the recent surge in fintechs pursuing OCC limited-purpose trust charters. They explore what’s driving this trend, how limited trust charters differ from full bank charters, and why these structures are especially attractive for fintechs operating in payments and digital assets. The conversation also dives into common misconceptions, the reality of “bank‑grade” AML and governance expectations, and what fintechs should prepare for before—and after—receiving a charter. From compliance program design and OCC examination rigor to risk governance, board expectations, and the future evolution of charter authorities, this episode offers practical insight for fintechs considering a charter and for institutions working with chartered fintech partners.
• AML in Gaming: Inside Casino Compliance, Cash Risk, and the Human Factor 20.04.2026 31m

  Casinos operate at the intersection of entertainment, cash, and compliance—making AML in gaming fundamentally different from banking. In this episode, John Byrne sits down with Paul Camacho, Vice President of Compliance at Yamava’ Resort & Casino and former IRS‑CI Special Agent in Charge, to unpack what AML professionals outside the gaming industry often misunderstand. Paul shares insights from both the law‑enforcement and casino sides, including why most illicit funds enter casinos through spending, not laundering; how gambling addiction creates unique fraud and AML risks; and why observation and human intelligence matter as much as analytics. The conversation also explores public‑- private partnerships, casino typologies such as illegal sports betting and cash-intensive fraud, emerging risks highlighted in the National Money Laundering Risk Assessment, and how to move beyond “check‑the‑box” AML training. This episode offers a rare, practical look at how effective casino AML programs balance regulation, culture, and real‑world risk.
• Corruption Crackdowns, Sanctions, and New Compliance Pressures 17.04.2026 16m

  In this week’s episode of This Week in AML, John Byrne and Elliot Berman unpack a wide range of global financial crime and compliance developments shaping the risk landscape. The conversation begins with the significance of Hungary’s election results and what a potential reversal of entrenched corruption could mean for democratic institutions and Ukraine. The episode also covers leadership changes at IRS‑CI, new OFAC sanctions targeting cartel‑linked money laundering and cash smuggling, and updated FinCEN FAQs tied to Geographic Targeting Orders. Additional topics include New York’s crackdown on insurance fraud, emerging concerns around elder abuse and sextortion, rising money laundering prosecutions in Turkey following FATF scrutiny, and fresh FCA findings on weaknesses in CDD and EDD practices. The episode closes with a discussion of a reported proposal that could require U.S. banks to collect citizenship documentation—raising major operational, compliance, and debanking concerns.
• Sanctions & Geopolitical Risk - What's Your Backup Plan? 13.04.2026 11m

  AI is everywhere in financial crime compliance - but is it delivering on its promises? In this episode of AML Conversations, host Joe McNamara and Mark Sully, Managing Director of Commercial Affairs for EMEA and APAC, dive into the escalating challenges of sanctions screening and geopolitical risk in financial crime compliance. They explore how rapidly shifting sanctions lists, surging alert volumes, and dual-use goods are straining compliance teams - and what institutions are doing about it. From list management and false positive reduction to augmenting analyst workflows with AI, the conversation maps out a pragmatic path forward that balances technology adoption with operational reality.
• FinCEN’s AML Program Rule Overhaul, Stablecoins, and the 10-Year Legacy of the Panama Papers 10.04.2026 18m

  In this week’s This Week in AML, Elliot Berman and John Byrne break down FinCEN’s newly released notice of proposed rulemaking to modernize the AML/CFT program rule—its first major rethink in two decades. They explore what a risk-based refocus could mean in practice, including new requirements for risk assessments, changes to the four pillars, examiner discretion, and the unprecedented requirement that bank regulators consult with FinCEN before certain enforcement actions. The conversation also covers a flurry of regulatory and enforcement developments: the OCC’s GENIUS Act proposal on stablecoins, the removal of reputation risk from bank examinations, and what both could mean for smaller financial institutions. Elliot and John look back at the 10-year anniversary of the Panama Papers, review the FBI’s 2025 Internet Crime Report, and discuss global enforcement challenges—from scam centers in Southeast Asia to resource constraints at foreign FIUs.
• Unpacking the AML/CFT Program Rule: Key Changes and Industry Implications 09.04.2026 26m

  AML RightSource's John Byrne sits down with Dan Stipano, partner at Davis Polk's Financial Institutions and Regulation Group and former Deputy Enforcement Director at the OCC, for an immediate reaction to FinCEN's newly proposed AML/CFT Program Rule. The conversation covers the genesis of the proposal and its key structural changes — including the bifurcation of program establishment and implementation, the formal incorporation of national AML priorities, and the clarification of the US-based compliance officer requirement. Most notably, the two dig into what may be the rule's most consequential provision: FinCEN's unprecedented new role as a gatekeeper over federal banking agency supervisory and enforcement actions. They also touch on a separate final rule from the OCC, the Fed, and the FDIC that eliminates reputational risk from the supervisory framework and what that means for banks' account decisions going forward.
• Crypto & Digital Assets – What’s Your Backup Plan? 08.04.2026 9m

  In this episode of AML Conversations, host Joe McNamara and Mark Sully, Managing Director of Commercial Affairs for EMEA and APAC, turn their focus to the unique compliance challenges facing crypto firms. They explore how crypto's speed and risk appetite create gaps between promised and delivered technology outcomes, why efficiency gains from AI are real but often overstated, and what "having a backup plan" actually looks like in a 24/7, never-sleeping market. The conversation also touches on the growing convergence of crypto, stablecoins, and traditional finance - and what that means for governance and oversight.
• Sanctions, Scams, and Scrutiny: Global Enforcement Signals Financial Institutions Can’t Ignore 03.04.2026 15m

  In this episode, Elliot Berman and John Byrne break down a wide‑ranging set of regulatory and enforcement developments shaping the global financial crime landscape. The conversation covers major U.S. bank settlements tied to the Epstein litigation, a closely watched Capital One debanking case involving Trump‑affiliated entities, and key overseas actions—from Australia’s expanded AML regime to the UK’s sanctions enforcement against Apple and a massive scam operation in Cambodia. The discussion also dives into the OECD’s latest anti‑bribery report, FinCEN’s proposed whistleblower award program, emerging healthcare fraud typologies, and renewed concerns over the weakening of the U.S. Corporate Transparency Act. Wrapping up, Elliot and John assess developments tied to FATF’s mutual evaluation of the United States, nonprofit de‑risking, and new OFAC guidance on sham transactions—offering critical context for compliance professionals navigating a rapidly shifting risk environment.