The UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has censured the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) for serious deficiencies in its anti-money laundering (AML) supervision.

ICB is a professional body supervisor responsible for overseeing the AML compliance of over 3,000 bookkeepers under the Money Laundering Regulations 2017.

Between January 2022 and July 2023, ICB breached key AML regulations relating to its role as an AML supervisor, thereby increasing the risks of financial crime amongst members.

ICB failed to adopt an adequate risk-based approach to its supervisory functions and did not effectively monitor its members. The most serious breaches were caused or made worse by ICB’s decision to suspend all inspections – both onsite and virtual – for nine months. During this period, ICB’s ability to scrutinise members’ compliance with AML regulations was seriously undermined. The failings exposed the sector to greater money laundering risks.

The Government has recently announced planned reforms to make the FCA the Single Professional Services Supervisor, aiming to deliver a more effective approach to combatting illicit finance. These reforms will take time to implement. In the interim, OPBAS will continue to work with professional body supervisors to ensure compliance with AML regulations.