The banking sector is constantly evolving, making it essential for those who wish to pursue a career in the industry to stay abreast of the latest developments. The role of the banking sector has shifted from simply providing safe storage of wealth and lending money to a guiding figure to governments, corporations or large organisations. Investment banking deals with this changed role advising on the benefits and risks of an investment.
Investment banking is a sector where anti-money laundering laws are implemented to make financial transactions transparent. This article will discuss the rules and regulations surrounding anti-money laundering, the significance of investment banking and the potential for career progression.
Understanding Investment Banking and Money Laundering
Investment banking deals with the banking sector providing banking operations for individual clients and companies for the purpose of raising capital. In this regard, areas such as IPO or initial public offerings and mergers are considered where underwriting is issued for a new security position.
According to the United Nations panel, money laundering is estimated at 1.6 USD trillion. Anti-money laundering combines several rules and regulations regarding the illicit transfer and dealing of funds, contributing to illegal income. It is directed towards improving the financial industry by enforcing strict laws around money laundering. These laws keep the international capital in control, and money is regulated legally.
How are Money Laundering and Investment Banking Related?
Investment banks are subject to anti-money laundering regulations, which require them to identify, monitor and report suspicious transactions. Investment banks must also ensure that the sources of funds used for investment activities are legitimate and that any trades with customers are properly documented and reviewed.
Additionally, investment banks must establish systems for monitoring their clients for potential money laundering activities and have procedures to report suspicious transactions to the appropriate authorities.
Detailed Information on Anti-money Laundering
Anti-money Laundering Laws and Regulations
Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002
The Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 prevents money laundering and gives the right to confiscate property derived from money laundering.
The Act was enacted on 1 July 2005 and provided for the forfeiture of the proceeds of crime and money laundering and confiscating the property involved therewith.
United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime
The United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime, also known as the Palermo Convention, is an international treaty signed by all United Nations member states in 2000.
It is the first global legal instrument to address the issue of transnational organised crime, such as trafficking in persons, smuggling of migrants, trafficking in firearms, money laundering, corruption and cybercrime.
Anti-money Laundering Compliance
AML compliance aims to detect and report suspicious financial activity, deter money laundering and other financial crimes, and protect businesses and individuals from the risks associated with money laundering.
It involves several activities, such as customer due diligence, customer identification, transaction monitoring and suspicious activity reporting. Businesses must also comply with relevant laws and regulations, such as the Bank Secrecy Act and Financial Action Task Force standards.
Anti-money Laundering Strategies
Anti-money laundering strategies are designed to prevent money laundering by identifying suspicious activities and reporting them to the necessary authorities. Here are some valuable techniques that can be implemented for the betterment of investment banking:
Implement Know Your Customer (KYC) Measures
KYC measures are essential for identifying customers and verifying their identity. It helps determine whether a customer is legitimate or engaging in suspicious activities.
Train Your Employees
Train your employees to recognise signs of money laundering and know how to report suspicious activities properly.
Monitor Transaction
Monitor all transactions and ensure they are legitimate and comply with the law. Suspicious activities should be reported to the authorities.
Use Effective Record-keeping
Keep records of all transactions and keep them up-to-date. It is critical to prevent money laundering.
The Interconnection Between the Money Market and Derivative Market and Anti-money Laundering
The money market relates to regulations and effective measures to discourage money laundering. These sets of standards are used against the process of anti-laundering, aiming to transfer or disguise funds for proceeds to criminal activities.
As a result, money market instruments like treasury certificates are essential for anti-money laundering regulations. These funds must also adhere to the guidelines and regularly review customer accounts.
Money Market as a Source of Funds for Money Laundering
Criminals can use these markets to transfer money into offshore accounts, purchasing and selling assets to defraud companies.
Derivative Market as a Target for Money Laundering
Money launderers can utilise derivatives to cover fund transfers from one entity to another without trouble.
Conclusion
AML and investment banking is a field that requires thorough knowledge and understanding of the banking sector. It requires the ability to understand and analyse financial data and strong organisational and problem-solving skills. The average Investment Banker’s salary is ₹4.0 LPA and can go as high as ₹33.4 LPA for experienced professionals.
To become an Investment Banker, the certified investment banking operations professional course offered by Imarticus is a good place to start. This banking course with placement can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this field.
