Risks

• An organization failing to achieve Best Practices for countering terrorist financing risks its brand reputation.
• Failure to follow Best Practices can lead to financial losses on five levels:

1. The fraud itself may result in a loss of financial loss of assets.
   
2. Regulators may require an exhaustive and time-consuming audit or review, they may  levy fines, or both.
   
3. The  U.S. Government may seize assets.
4. Significant legal exposure may be generated.
5. The company may face a long and costly journey back to good standing.

• Regulatory pressure may arise out of even minor failings of an AML compliance program.
• Failure to achieve Best Practices can have an adverse impact on national security.

Opportunities

• An organization capable of implementing and demonstrating best practices for AML Terrorist and Threat Financing is able to enhance its brand and business.
• Some of the best run AML programs have created new operational efficiencies as organizations implement stronger training programs and prepare a wider set of business functions and personnel to lead on the "front lines" of the program.
• Organizations that achieve best practices become leaders in their industry. They are often recognized by regulators and/or at conferences, offering the institutions a means to highlight key personnel and leaders.
• Robust AML programs, anchored by sound best practices, serve to enhance our national security by making it more difficult for terrorists and transnational organized criminal groups to access funds to sustain their operations.