Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Key Points
- The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an inter-governmental body that sets global standards for combatting money laundering, terrorist financing, and other related threats to the international financial system.
- FATF’s recommendations and guidelines have a significant impact on the global financial sector, including cryptocurrency and blockchain industries.
- FATF regularly reviews and updates its standards and guidelines to adapt to changing financial landscapes and technologies.
- Cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet providers, and other related entities are required to comply with FATF’s regulations, which can have a profound effect on their operations and services.
Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Definition
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is an international policy-making and standard-setting body dedicated to promoting and implementing legal, regulatory, and operational measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and other related threats to the integrity of the international financial system.
What is the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)?
Founded in 1989 by the G7, the FATF is an inter-governmental body that serves as a global watchdog for money laundering and terrorist financing.
It establishes and promotes the adoption of both legal and operational measures to combat these financial threats.
FATF’s scope also extends to other related risks like corruption and crime that threaten the integrity of the global financial system.
Who is Involved in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)?
The FATF consists of 39 members, including 37 member jurisdictions and 2 regional organizations.
Its members cover most of the major financial centres worldwide.
Non-member countries are also encouraged to adopt FATF’s standards and guidelines.
The FATF works closely with various international and regional bodies involved in anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF), such as the United Nations and the World Bank.
When and Where was the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Established?
The FATF was established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris.
Its secretariat is housed at the headquarters of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris, France.
Why is the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Important in the Crypto and Blockchain Industry?
The FATF’s guidelines and recommendations have a significant impact on the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry.
In 2019, the FATF updated its guidelines to include Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), which include cryptocurrency exchanges, wallet providers, and others, requiring them to comply with the same AML and CFT regulations as traditional financial institutions.
This has led to significant changes in the operations of many crypto-related businesses, aiming to increase transparency and reduce illicit activities.
How Does the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Function?
The FATF functions by setting standards and promoting effective implementation of its legal, regulatory, and operational measures.
It conducts regular evaluations of its members to assess the level of compliance with its standards.
Non-compliant jurisdictions may face reputational damage or other consequences, encouraging a high level of compliance.
Its guidelines also help financial institutions and other relevant entities in understanding and detecting potential risks, thereby strengthening the overall integrity of the international financial system.
