What is the primary aim of anti-money laundering (AML) laws?

The primary aim of anti-money laundering (AML) laws is to prevent and combat money laundering activities. These laws are designed to protect the integrity of financial systems by making it more difficult for criminals to hide the proceeds of illegal activities. By implementing measures that identify, monitor, and report suspicious transactions, AML regulations help to track and address the routes through which illicit funds move within the economy.

Effective AML frameworks encourage financial institutions to establish robust compliance programs that include customer due diligence, timely reporting of suspicious activities, and staff training on recognizing potentially fraudulent behavior. Such practices are essential for deterring criminal enterprises from exploiting the financial system, thus enhancing overall economic stability and security.