Anti-Money Laundering: What You Should Be Doing and Why?

Course Content

Despite recent leadership changes, the SRA shows no sign of easing its rigorous enforcement approach, continuing to pressure firms to enter into Regulatory Settlement Agreements (RSAs) and pay significant fines—even for relatively minor breaches of the increasingly complex anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. With further regulatory changes expected in early 2026, firms face a challenging compliance landscape.

This session examines practical steps to strengthen AML and sanctions compliance, mitigate risk, and avoid costly enforcement action. It provides up-to-date insights on the SRA’s current approach and guidance on how firms can protect themselves against penalties and reputational damage.

The session will cover:

1. New Home Office 4^th National Risk Assessment (July 2025)
2. Regulators’ investigations – Key enquiries and things to focus on
3. Outcomes – RSAs and more
   1. Negotiations and appeals
4. Key financial crimes, including sanctions guidance and counter proliferation financing
5. Key PoCA duties and legislative risks
6. New LSAG Guidance Note (April 2025)
7. Risk assessments of Clients and Matters
8. CDD – The key aspects, including:
   1. Getting the key documentation
   2. Vetting the key documentation
   3. Source of wealth and funds investigations
9. Other considerations – High-risk countries (new lists June 2025), PEPs & Ongoing Monitoring

Trevor Hellawell, Solicitor, CEO ExLPD