Themis Newsletter - November
Welcome to the latest newsletter where we show you a few highlights from Themis, and focus in on the big global financial crime news stories.
FinCrime News Stories
Spanish police arrest ex-fraud chief after €20m found in walls of his house
This month, the former head of the fraud and anti-money laundering division of Spain's national police force was arrested - on charges of drug trafficking, money laundering, corruption, and involvement with a criminal organisation. Sánchez Gil's arrest came as part of Spain's largest-ever cocaine bust. He is accused of colluding with drug traffickers by providing information on container surveillance in Spanish ports, enabling them to bypass customs checks. According to news articles, Sánchez Gil laundered money through crypto-currencies and private hire producers. This case highlights the critical importance of integrity - both in and outside of law enforcement - in combatting criminal activity. To learn more about how your organisation can better understand, recognise, and tackle bribery and corruption, please find our tailored Themis training course on the topic here.
Read more: The Guardian
Driving the global conversation on ecocide law
Earlier this month, a bill to criminalise ecocide was lodged in Scottish Parliament, with the aim of preventing and criminalising the most severe forms of environmental harm. Scotland follows on the heels of other countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Azerbaijan, Peru, Italy and Canada, which have all discussed or affirmed their support for criminalising ecocide this year. Environmental crime is a multi billion dollar industry, with an annual growth rate of 5-7%, outstripping the growth rate of the licit economy by two to three times. Check out our free-to-access Environmental Crimes Financial Toolkit here to learn more about environmental crime across the world.
Read more: Stop Ecocide International
Huge crime network forging Banksy, Warhol and Picasso uncovered in Italy
This month, the Italian police announced their successful dismantling of a Europe-wide criminal network suspected of forging paintings of some of the world's most famous artists, including Banksy, Warhol and Picasso. As part of this operation, investigators discovered six forgery workshops, seized over 2,000 counterfeit pieces, and placed thirty-eight people under investigation. The forgeries are estimated to carry a potential sale value of about €200 million, with many experts seeing the police operation as the 'biggest act of protection' of Banksy's estate. Financial crime in the art world is an issue that Themis has explored extensively over the past year, painting a picture of these sketchy dealings in our recent briefing note on the topic, available to download freely?here.
Read more: The Guardian
Themis News
Themis launches first AML and KYF/KYC firm in Saudi Arabia: Tathabbat Powered by Themis will help protect the Kingdom’s economic expansion?
Building on years of collaboration with the Saudi market, Tathabbat is designed to support financial institutions and DNFBPs with advanced compliance tools, aligning with Vision 2030 and preparing for the 2026 FATF evaluation. This underscores Themis’ commitment to fostering a safer financial ecosystem, empowering businesses with the tools needed to navigate regulatory challenges and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
Visit our site: Tathabbat.ai
Beyond Borders: Behind Closed Doors
Expertly led by Henry Williams
This month, our team returned to Jordan to strengthen our growing network and reaffirm our commitment to supporting the country's financial crime risk management needs. Hosted at the Ambassador’s residence, our CEO roundtable united industry leaders to discuss compliance, risk, and collaboration. Jordan's ongoing investment in AI and business digitalisation highlights the urgent need for robust solutions in compliance and risk management. We are excited to continue building impactful partnerships and supporting Jordan’s forward-thinking approach to combating financial crime.
Tools like our The Red Market Briefing Note and Level 2 EDD Sample Report, shared during the visit, highlight our dedication to tackling these challenges.
Country Risk Report: United States of America
Our latest U.S. Country Risk Report provides detailed insights into the country’s economic landscape, regulatory challenges, and financial crime risks. Designed to support organisations operating in or engaging with the U.S., it’s a key resource for ensuring compliance and making informed decisions.
Download now: U.S. Country Risk Report
领英推荐
Country Risk Report: Jordan?
The Jordan Country Risk Report is now available, offering a detailed assessment of the country’s geopolitical landscape, economic environment, and financial crime risks. It is an essential resource for organisations seeking to navigate the complexities of operating in Jordan with confidence and compliance.
Download now: Jordan Country Risk Report
If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail
As the year winds down, take advantage of our exclusive end-of-year bundle, combining:
Strategically utilise your remaining 2024 budget and secure top-tier risk management support for the year ahead.
? Mitigate financial crime risks ? Tailor compliance solutions ? Access bespoke research and intelligence
Set up by December 30th, 2024, and utilise the bundle by June 30th, 2025.
T&Cs apply.
Contact us: Themis
AI and Anti-Financial Crime – Hope Amidst the Hype
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the fight against financial crime, and UK Finance has delved into this vital topic. In their latest blog, they examine how AI can revolutionise detection, compliance, and prevention, while addressing the challenges of implementation and regulation. As financial crime becomes increasingly sophisticated, the industry must evolve. UK Finance sheds light on both the promise and the pitfalls of AI, providing valuable insights into how businesses can harness its potential effectively.
Ready to contribute to the discussion?
Take survey now: AI in Anti-Financial Crime Senior Leaders Survey
Read article: UK Finance
If you would like to discuss any of our research findings in more depth please do not hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].
All the best,
The Themis Insight Team