What kind of transactions typically require enhanced due diligence?

Enhanced due diligence (EDD) is typically required for transactions that present a higher risk of money laundering or other illicit activities. Foreign high-risk customer transactions are particularly scrutinized due to several factors, including the potential for exposure to jurisdictions with lax regulatory frameworks, the prevalence of corruption, or a lack of transparency and oversight.

These high-risk foreign customers may include individuals or entities from countries known for significant money laundering concerns, politically exposed persons (PEPs), or organizations that operate in industries typically subjected to higher risks (such as non-profit organizations, shell corporations, or those dealing in cash-intensive businesses).

Standard due diligence may not suffice in these cases, as the potential risks are significantly elevated, necessitating more rigorous processes to assess and mitigate the risk associated with acting in an international environment. This may involve verifying the identity of the customer more thoroughly, understanding the nature of their business relationships, and continuously monitoring transactions for patterns that may indicate suspicious activity.