BSA/AML Compliance Overview

Financial institutions play a critical role in detecting and preventing financial crimes. This session provides a clear, practical introduction to Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance—equipping participants with the knowledge needed to identify risks and fulfill regulatory responsibilities with confidence.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Understand the purpose and scope of BSA/AML regulations
• Recognize key money laundering and terrorist financing risks
• Identify core components of an effective AML compliance program
• Understand employee roles and responsibilities in maintaining compliance
• Apply basic concepts to real-world scenarios

Topics

1. Introduction to BSA/AML

• Overview of BSA and AML laws
• Regulatory framework and governing bodies
• Why compliance is critical

2. Understanding Money Laundering

• Stages of money laundering: Placement, Layering, Integration
• Common techniques and red flags
• Emerging risks and trends

3. AML Compliance Program Essentials

• The Five Pillars of BSA/AML Compliance:
  • Internal controls
  • Independent testing
  • Designated BSA officer
  • Training programs
  • Customer due diligence (CDD)
• Customer Due Diligence (CDD) & Know Your Customer (KYC)
• Customer identification and verification
• Beneficial ownership requirements
• Risk-based approach to customer monitoring
• Suspicious Activity Monitoring & Reporting
• Identifying suspicious behavior
• Currency Transaction Reports (CTRs)
• Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs)
• Reporting timelines and requirements
• Roles & Responsibilities
• Employee accountability
• Escalation procedures
• Building a culture of compliance

Participants will leave with:

• A solid understanding of AML fundamentals
• Awareness of regulatory expectations
• Practical tools to identify and report suspicious activity
• Increased confidence in fulfilling compliance responsibilities