A typical red flag regarding potential money laundering in connection with an art purchase occurs when a customer:
Correct Answer: C
Paying a large amount in cash for an art purchase is a typical red flag of potential money laundering, as it may indicate an attempt to avoid traceability and reporting requirements. Cash transactions are often used by criminals to launder illicit funds, as they are difficult to track and verify. According to the FATF guidance on money laundering and terrorist financing risks in the art trade, cash payments above a certain threshold should be subject to enhanced due diligence and reporting obligations by art market participants (AMPs). AMPs should also be wary of customers who provide insufficient or inconsistent information about the source of funds, the purpose of the transaction, or the identity of the beneficial owner.
References:
Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks and Vulnerabilities Associated with Gold, FATF, July
2023, p. 22-23.
Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Vulnerabilities of Legal Professionals, FATF, June 2023, p.
38-39.
Red Flags Money laundering and terrorist financing risks, Responsible Art Market, 2017, p. 2.