In Episode 8 of our podcast, our CEO Jonathan Wilson spoke with Claus Christensen, the CEO and co-founder of KnowYourCustomer.com. This fintech solution is a global provider of KYC and customer due diligence solutions for banks and financial institutions. The episode delves into the workings of their software, its relevance to AML compliance, and the potential implications for the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) in the United States.
The Complexity of Corporate KYC
KnowYourCustomer.com was born out of the need to address the challenging and dynamic nature of corporate KYC processes. In the podcast, Christensen outlined the difficulties that financial institutions face in onboarding corporate entities, emphasizing the complexity and fluidity of corporate identities compared to individuals. His solution? A modular compliance system that automates the connection to company registries, uses AI and algorithms to process documents, and converts them into structured data, facilitating a more efficient onboarding process.
Company Registries: A European Perspective
The concept of company registries, while familiar in Europe, might seem foreign to an American audience. During the podcast, Christensen explained the role of these registries in ensuring transparency and compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. Unlike the U.S., where registries operate at the state level and often lack public accessibility, European registries mandate the disclosure of comprehensive corporate structure and ownership details, promoting a culture of transparency over privacy.
Christensen expressed his views on the cultural differences between Europe and the U.S. regarding privacy and ownership transparency. He pointed out that while the law is a step towards greater compliance, its effectiveness may be hampered by its limitations and the cultural preference for privacy in the U.S.
KnowYourCustomer.com: Pricing and Impact
Christensen also spoke about the dual fee structure of KnowYourCustomer.com’s services, combining an annual license fee with a per KYC case fee, underscoring the solution’s adaptability to the recurring needs of financial institutions. He touched on the importance of reconfirming KYC data, influenced by both regulatory regimes and the risk-based approach advocated by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Reflecting on the eight-year journey of KnowYourCustomer.com, Christensen discussed the evolution of the company, the challenges of establishing a tech startup, and the nuances of catering to a diverse clientele, from fintechs to traditional banks. As the company eyes expansion into the U.S. market, Christensen shared insights into the strategic plans and the ongoing fundraising efforts to support this next phase of growth.
Looking Forward: Optimism in AML Compliance
Closing the episode, Christensen shared his optimistic outlook on the future of anti-money laundering compliance. Despite the complexities and cultural differences, he believes that the global focus on combating money laundering and enforcing sanctions is moving in the right direction, reflecting a collective commitment to transparency and compliance.
