Risks

• Failure is not an option, as inadequate AML policies and procedures may lead to regulatory scrutiny, fraud, fines, financial losses and reputational damage.
• Recent sanctions against large financial institutions have resulted in record-setting fines and a overall net worth loss due to the negative impact felt in the markets. 
• Loss of client information can be catastrophic for a company and result in regulatory penalties and class action lawsuits brought by affected clients.
• Cyber attacks, especially those in which intellectual property is stolen, can be extremely damaging to a company's future and generate significant, even huge, financial losses.

Opportunities

• Achieving AML best practices affords an organisation the ability to operate effectively and efficiently without the risk of outside influences or disruptions from regulatory bodies.
• The organisation can be cast in a positive light to the extent it meets and exceeds regulatory concerns.
• Sound AML practices provide an ethical framework for a bank's staff and establish a strong ethical culture.