Australias financial regulator is scrutinizing Entain, the gaming behemoth, to ensure their compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. This inquiry, part of a broader initiative, was initiated by AUSTRAC, the agency tasked with monitoring financial dealings for illicit activity.
AUSTRAC’s chief, Nicole Rose, emphasized the need for heightened vigilance within sectors like gambling to prevent them from becoming conduits for money laundering and terrorism financing. She stressed the importance of proactive measures and resource allocation to maintain operational integrity.
Despite the ongoing nature of the investigation and its confidential details, AUSTRAC possesses a range of mechanisms to detect illicit practices. They have firmly stated their commitment to taking decisive action against any entity attempting to exploit the system.
This scrutiny extends beyond Entain, as AUSTRAC is conducting a comprehensive examination of the entire corporate bookmaking sector. It is anticipated that other firms will also come under scrutiny.
This recent investigation follows closely on the heels of another regulatory inquiry into Entain, conducted in the UK in August.
Amuse, a major participant in the British wagering industry, received a substantial penalty – a whopping £17 million (roughly $20 million, more or less) – from the UK Gambling Commission. It seems they fell short in maintaining impeccable standards, particularly regarding social accountability and anti-money laundering protocols.
Andrew Rhodes, the Commission’s top official, spoke frankly, revealing that their inquiry unearthed significant concerns, resulting in their most substantial enforcement action to date.
Concurrently, in Australia, Star Casino temporarily suspended their share trading as the release of the highly anticipated Bell Report draws near.