Brazil Takes Modest Step Forward in Combating Financial Crime

A Slight Improvement in Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Index Score

Brazil has taken a step in the right direction in its efforts to combat financial crime, with a slight decrease in its money laundering and terrorist financing index score last year. The country scored 4.98 in 2021, down from 5.02 in the previous year, marking the first time since 2018 that Brazil’s score has decreased.

What is the Basel AML Index?

The Basel AML Index is a composite measure of various indicators related to corruption, financial standards, political disclosure, and rule of law. It is widely regarded as a benchmark for assessing the risk level of money laundering and terrorist financing in different countries. The index draws on publicly available data from reputable sources such as:

• Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
• Transparency International
• World Bank
• World Economic Forum

What Does this Mean for Brazil?

Brazil’s improved score suggests that efforts to strengthen anti-money laundering regulations and enforcement mechanisms are beginning to bear fruit. However, experts caution that more work needs to be done to ensure that the country remains vigilant in its fight against financial crime.

Key Takeaways:

• Brazil’s money laundering and terrorist financing index score decreased from 5.02 in 2020 to 4.98 in 2021.
• This marks the first time since 2018 that Brazil’s score has decreased.
• Efforts to strengthen anti-money laundering regulations and enforcement mechanisms are beginning to bear fruit, but more work needs to be done.

By continuing to prioritize efforts to combat financial crime, Brazil can build on this progress and improve its position in the Basel AML Index.