Suspicious Activity Between Publicly Traded and High-Risk Jurisdiction: Escalation Criteria Analysis

Determining Escalation Criteria for Suspicious Activity Involving Publicly Traded and High-Risk Jurisdiction

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Question

A compliance analyst is reviewing recent activity between a publicly traded company and a company in a high risk jurisdiction. Which detail suggests that escalation is warranted?

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Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

D

Based on the given information, a compliance analyst is reviewing recent activity between a publicly traded company and a company in a high-risk jurisdiction. The objective is to determine whether escalation is warranted. Escalation refers to the process of raising concerns or suspicions about the activity to a higher level of authority or to a regulatory agency.

Out of the four options provided, the detail that suggests that escalation is warranted is:

A. The activity is a reputational risk to the financial institution.

This option suggests that the activity could have negative consequences for the financial institution's reputation. The potential reputational risk associated with the activity should be taken into account when deciding whether escalation is warranted. Reputational risk is a risk that arises from negative publicity, damage to the brand, or loss of confidence by clients or investors. It can result in significant financial losses, regulatory scrutiny, and legal liability.

Option B. It is the first time the originator wires the beneficiary, is not necessarily a red flag on its own, as it is common for businesses to initiate new relationships. However, the compliance analyst should review the underlying business rationale for the transaction, as well as the source of funds and the ultimate beneficiary of the transaction, to ensure that they are legitimate.

Option C. Beneficiary is active in a related industry, may or may not be a concern, depending on the nature of the related industry and the specific activity. It is essential to review the transaction in more detail to identify any red flags or indicators of illicit activity.

Option D. Payments to the beneficiary are for large dollar amounts, may or may not be a concern, depending on the nature of the transaction and the business. However, the compliance analyst should review the transaction in more detail to determine the business rationale and ensure that the source of funds and the ultimate beneficiary are legitimate.

In conclusion, the option that suggests that escalation is warranted is A. The activity is a reputational risk to the financial institution. Nonetheless, it is essential to consider all options and review the transaction in more detail to identify any potential red flags or indicators of illicit activity.