High-Risk, High-Impact: Managing BSA/AML Exposure in Cannabis, Crypto, and Emerging Markets

Event Description

Cannabis, cryptocurrency, and other emerging markets represent both growth opportunities and regulatory minefields for financial institutions. These sectors are often classified as high-risk under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA), requiring enhanced due diligence, rigorous monitoring, and well-documented compliance frameworks to avoid enforcement and reputational harm.

This webinar explores the evolving expectations for BSA/AML risk management across these rapidly changing industries. We’ll walk through real-world case studies, key red flags, and examiner priorities, including FinCEN guidance on marijuana-related businesses, cryptocurrency transaction monitoring, and risk assessments for new business lines. Whether your institution is currently banking these customers or preparing to assess them, this session will provide clarity, controls, and compliance strategies you can put into action.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the current regulatory landscape and FinCEN guidance for cannabis- and crypto-related businesses.

• Learn how to build and maintain risk-based customer due diligence (CDD) programs for high-risk sectors.

• Review red flags, transaction monitoring rules, and SAR filing expectations for MRBs and digital asset entities.

• Explore how to tailor your institution’s risk appetite statement and BSA policy to accommodate emerging markets.

• Discover practical steps to strengthen internal controls, train staff, and prepare for examiner scrutiny.