Financial Crime World

Bahamas Adopts Strict Beneficial Ownership Rules

The Bahamian government has introduced stringent beneficial ownership rules for all legal entities operating within its jurisdiction. This move is aimed at enhancing transparency and combating financial crimes.

What Drives the Need for Transparency?

As a leading financial hub, The Bahamas must remain vigilant in protecting its international reputation while also adhering to global standards on beneficial ownership disclosure.

Key Provisions of the Register of Beneficial Ownership Act

  • Requires each registered agent to maintain a secure database containing detailed information about the beneficial owners of every company, trust, or other entity it represents.
  • The register is accessible only to designated officials from authorized regulatory bodies.

What Information Will Be Recorded?

The following details will be kept in the database:

  • Name
  • Incorporation number
  • Date of incorporation
  • Status
  • Registered address
  • Any other particulars as specified by the Minister

Details for Each Beneficial Owner

  • Full legal name
  • Residential address
  • Service address
  • Country of ordinary residence or domicile
  • Date of birth
  • Nationality
  • Identification details from a passport, driver’s license, or government-issued document

Additional Information for Registrable Entities

  • Details of the entity
  • Jurisdiction of formation
  • Basis for designation as a registrable entity
  • Information about foreign regulators or states

Who Can Access the Register?

Only designated officials from approved regulatory authorities can request searches on the register. These authorities include:

Approved Regulatory Authorities

  • The Office of the Attorney General
  • The Financial Intelligence Unit
  • The Central Bank of The Bahamas
  • The Compliance Commission
  • The Securities Commission

Retention and Security Requirements

The registered agent must keep the information in the database for five years after a legal entity is dissolved, ceases to exist, or changes its registered agent. The system will be stored securely at a designated location within The Bahamas, with access restricted to authorized personnel.

International Implications

This move by the Bahamian government sends a clear message that it takes financial transparency and anti-money laundering regulations seriously. As one of the world’s leading financial hubs, the Bahamas must remain vigilant in protecting its international reputation while also adhering to global standards on beneficial ownership disclosure.

In conclusion, the new beneficial ownership rules in The Bahamas reflect the country’s commitment to enhancing transparency, combating financial crimes, and maintaining its position as a reputable player in the global financial community.