Highlights:

• To promote the effectiveness of global anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing programs, The Wolfsberg Group and The Clearing House Association L.L.C. have announced a statement for change in international wire transfer practices.
• The following actions are endorsed: (1) the creation of a new or enhanced SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) payment message format for third-party cover payments; and (2) the adoption of basic message standards by the banking industry.
• Four basic payment message standards were developed to enhance transparency of international payments and promote the effectiveness of risk-based programs.
• In a response by the Department of the Treasury regarding the call for transparency in payment message standards, Under Secretary Stuart Levey stated: "The Treasury Department and federal banking regulators applaud the groups' proactive efforts, and encourage financial institutions worldwide to take steps to adopt this robust proposal. In turn, we pledge to work with our international counterparts to help bolster support for the initiative as we continue our joint effort with the industry to develop standards to strengthen the financial system." Under Secretary Levey's statement can be found at: https://www.ustreas.gov/press/releases/hp364.htm
• The Wolfsberg Group is an association of 12 global banks whose aim is to develop financial services industry standards and related products for Know Your Customer, Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorist Financing policies. The Clearing House Association LLC is owned by the U.S. affiliates of 22 banks and was established to simplify the exchange of checks and improve the efficiency of the payments system. It includes industry forums to discuss and take action on issues critical to its owners.

Distribution:
FDIC-Supervised Banks (Commercial and Savings)

Suggested Routing:
Chief Executive Officer
BSA Compliance Officer

Related Topics:
Bank Secrecy Act
International Wire Transfer
The Wolfsberg Group
The Clearing House

Attachments:
Press Release - Banks Endorse Measures to Enhance Transparency in International Payments - PDF 88k (PDF Help)
Statement on Payment Message Standards - PDF 67k (PDF Help)

Contact:
Review Examiner Heather L. Basnett at
SASFIL@FDIC.gov or (202) 898-3673

Printable Format:
FIL-37-2007 - PDF 38k (PDF Help)

Note:
FDIC financial institution letters (FILs) may be accessed from the FDIC's Web site at www.fdic.gov/news/news/financial/2007/index.html.

To receive FILs electronically, please visit http://www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/fil.html.

Paper copies of FDIC financial institution letters may be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center, 3501 Fairfax Drive, Room E- 1002, Arlington, VA 22226 (1-877 275-3342 or 703-562-2200).