Entries by IFI

Biden Takes Final Shot at Russia’s Energy

The Biden administration on January 10, 2025, imposed the most severe sanctions on Russia’s energy sector since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What should financial institutions and other firms know about these new designations, and how can they mitigate their risks?

The Chips Are Down

Recent enforcement actions indicate regulators are tightening their focus on the illicit cash that traverses the gaming industry. This article explores why casinos are a convenient money laundering venue and recent enforcement cases that highlight the risks the gaming industry faces globally.

2024’s Top 10 Major Developments

Explore the highlights from our recent webinar including an overview of the current illicit finance landscape, major events in 2024 as well as noted possible future developments as the global illicit finance regime grows and evolves.

Syria Sanctions Relief

The U.S. Treasury has issued a Syria General License to provide gradual sanctions relief for the Syrian people after the regime of Bashar al-Assad was toppled in December 2024. What does this sanctions relief mean to financial institutions and other firms hoping to transact in the country?

The Green Gold Rush

Explore the corruption risks in the green transition mining and minerals sector, a rapidly growing industry fraught with challenges that expose businesses to bribery, fraud, and reputational damage. Discover strategies to protect your operations and ensure compliance in the race for sustainable energy solutions.

Shell Companies as an Enabler of Export Control Violations

Shell companies are a key enabler of export control violations, which represents an extension of their well-established use in other financial crimes. This article provides red flags financial institutions can use to identify shell companies in the export control context and to take action accordingly – which can provide one element in an export control compliance program.

Sanctions in 2024: Global Pressure Points in the UN, U.S., EU, and UK

In 2024, the UN, U.S., EU, and UK ramped up sanctions targeting Russia, Iran, and conflict zones, focusing on critical sectors like energy, defense, and technology. In this article, we explore these coordinated efforts aimed at weakening adversarial regimes while navigating complex compliance and humanitarian challenges.