Fraud’s global toll rivals national economies, report finds
Financial fraud drained $485.6 billion from the global economy in 2023 – an amount so large, it would place fraud among the world’s top 35 economies if it were a country.
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FSCA gears up for tougher enforcement as scams and misconduct rise
From funeral policy breaches to crypto non-compliance and weak AML measures, the regulator’s latest report outlines its key priorities – with online harm topping the list.
FIC maps the money laundering, terror financing risks facing SA’s crypto sector
The report outlines the CASP sector’s vulnerabilities and provides guidance on how enhanced compliance and improved risk management can help to safeguard the industry.
SA’s path beyond the grey list: key challenges and opportunities ahead
While South Africa is on track to exit the grey list by October, National Treasury emphasises the importance of long-term improvements and continuous progress in financial regulation.
VBS scandal: six convicted, 35 arrested – and more to come
Authorities have convicted six individuals in the VBS Mutual Bank fraud case, including former executives and municipal officials. However, with 29 accused still on trial and 43 more suspects under investigation, the case is far from over.
BHI Trust: R12.4 million recovered, R1.5 billion still at stake
The joint trustees have managed to recoup R12.4m, but R1.5bn remains in claims. The efforts to recover funds through settlements, asset recovery, and legal action continue.
Banking sector providing the Hawks with tools to combat financial crime
The Digital and Financial Forensic Analysis Centre’s latest project is serving subpoenas electronically to obtain bank records.
R3m fine and 10-year debarment for VBS-linked adviser
The former owner of Gundo Wealth Solutions has been fined R3 million and debarred for a decade for brokering investments into VBS Mutual Bank.
Former TETA CEO sentenced to 7 years for role in Fidentia scandal
Court finds that Pieter Bothma accepted bribes to facilitate unauthorised investments, laundering millions for Fidentia’s directors.
FIC to launch inspections on CASPs amid growing regulatory scrutiny
The Financial Intelligence Centre’s sector final risk assessment report for crypto asset service providers is set to be published in the new financial year.
FIC cracks down on non-compliant accountable institutions
The FIC’s latest annual report shows that out of 558 inspections conducted during the year, 269 specifically targeted the non-submission of risk and compliance returns.
FIC’s 2023/24 annual report: the battle against financial crime
The Financial Intelligence Centre facilitated the recovery of R98.5m in criminal proceeds and generated 3 924 intelligence reports.
Former FNB employee sentenced to prison for R6.4m fraud
The syndicate gained unauthorised access to two accounts belonging to a German national on multiple occasions.
Sasfin fined R160m for ‘non-compliance’ by discontinued forex business
The bank also faces a R4.9bn claim arising from SARS’s alleged inability to collect taxes and penalties from former foreign exchange clients.
Scammers at work … from VAT fraud to fake invoices
Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya details the cases involving financial crimes investigated by the Hawks.
South Africa eyes stricter reporting laws for cross-border cash movements
Once the draft amendments to the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Control Regulations are enacted, failure to submit the required Cash Conveyance Report could lead to imprisonment for up to 15 years or fines of up to R100 million.
FIC invites comments on its draft risk assessment report for crypto asset service providers
The inherent risk of money laundering and terrorist financing for CASPs in South Africa is high, the report says.
