Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Policy

I. General Information

BitFiSwap s.r.o.: Company Overview and Compliance Framework

BitFiSwap s.r.o. is a company that operates within the framework of Czech and EU financial regulations, specializing in providing services primarily to individual clients. Our commitment to compliance with Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations is at the core of our operations. Key aspects of our general information include:

By maintaining this framework and adhering to our policy statement, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures that our operations meet the highest standards of compliance and integrity, reflecting our dedication to upholding our responsibilities as a financial services provider in the Czech Republic.

II. General Anti-Money Laundering Practices and Procedures

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., our General Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Practices and Procedures form a crucial part of our compliance framework. This section details the comprehensive measures we have in place to prevent, identify, and address money laundering and terrorist financing activities. Key elements of our AML practices and procedures include:

1.   Regulatory Supervision:

o We operate under the strict supervision of relevant regulatory authorities, ensuring adherence to both Czech and EU AML/CFT regulations.

2.   Compliance with AML/CFT Laws:

o Our practices are in line with key AML/CFT laws, including the Czech AML Act and various EU directives and regulations, ensuring comprehensive compliance.

3.   Designated Compliance Officer:

o While we do not have a dedicated Compliance Officer, our directors collectively undertake the responsibilities of overseeing and coordinating our AML/CFT program, bringing in their extensive experience in compliance and risk management.

4.   Written AML/CFT Compliance Program:

o We have a documented AML/CFT compliance program that covers essential areas like customer due diligence, transaction monitoring, and employee training. This program is regularly reviewed and updated.

5.   Regular Program Updates:

o Our AML/CFT program is updated annually or as needed in response to significant regulatory changes or operational shifts.

6.   Reporting Obligations:

o We adhere to strict reporting requirements to regulatory authorities, especially when operating in high-risk countries as identified by the FATF and European Commission.

7.   Ensuring Current Regulation Compliance:

o We conduct regular reviews, compliance testing, and employee training to ensure adherence to the latest AML/CFT regulations.

8.   Prevention of Relationships with High-Risk Entities:

o We avoid establishing business relationships with high-risk entities, including PEPs, their family members, and close associates.

9.   Transaction Monitoring System:

o We have a robust manual monitoring process in place for transactions, with ongoing plans to develop an automated system for enhanced efficiency.

10.   Ongoing Risk Assessment:

1.   Continuous risk assessment and customer due diligence are integral parts of our practices, ensuring proactive management of potential AML/CFT risks.

Through these practices and procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. demonstrates a strong commitment to upholding the highest standards of AML/CFT compliance, ensuring the integrity and security of our operations.

Regulatory Oversight and Compliance

AML/CFT Legal Compliance Framework

AML/CFT Program Leadership and Oversight

AML/CFT Written Compliance Program

Updating the AML/CFT Compliance Program

Reporting Requirements for Operations in High-Risk Countries

Ensuring Adherence to Current AML/CFT Regulations

Prevention of Relationships with Shell Banks/Organizations

III. Transaction Monitoring

BitFiSwap s.r.o. has established a robust framework for Transaction Monitoring as part of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance. This section outlines the key aspects of our transaction monitoring processes, designed to detect and address suspicious financial activities. The main components include:

Through these transaction monitoring practices, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures vigilant oversight of customer transactions, contributing to the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing activities.

Manual Transaction Monitoring System

Processes to Prevent and Detect Unusual/Suspicious Transactions

Risk-Based Customer Due Diligence

Self-Assessment Procedures for AML/CFT Compliance

Reporting Procedures for Suspicious Transactions

Documentation of Processes for Suspicious Transaction Reporting

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we have established a comprehensive framework for the documentation of all processes pertaining to the reporting of suspicious transactions. This well-structured documentation is a pivotal element of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance program, fulfilling several critical roles:

In summary, the well-documented procedures for reporting suspicious transactions at BitFiSwap s.r.o. signify our dedication to maintaining a robust, efficient, and compliant AML/CFT operational framework.

Authority for Reporting Suspicious Financial Activities

As part of our commitment to Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance, BitFiSwap s.r.o. has established a clear protocol for reporting suspicious financial activities. The designated authority for such reports in the Czech Republic is:

Reporting to the FAU aligns with our legal obligations under Czech AML/CFT regulations and demonstrates our proactive approach in contributing to the national and international efforts against financial crimes.

Retention of Records of Investigations into Suspicious Activity

In adherence to the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations of the Czech Republic and EU AML directives, BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains a stringent policy regarding the retention of relevant records. This policy pertains to all investigations into suspicious activities, including decisions on whether to file or not to file reports with the Financial Analytical Unit (FAU).

·         Retention Period: The records related to these investigations and decisions are retained for a period of five years. This duration is specifically chosen to comply with the standard retention period mandated by both Czech and EU AML regulations.

·         Secure Storage and Accessibility: During this five-year period, all records are securely stored to ensure confidentiality and integrity. The records are accessible as necessary for compliance with legal, regulatory, or audit requirements.

·         Purpose of Retention: The retention of these records serves several critical purposes, including facilitating potential future investigations by regulatory authorities, supporting internal and external audits, and ensuring transparency and accountability in our AML/CFT practices.

The policy of retaining records for a five-year period underscores BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s commitment to upholding the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational integrity in our AML/CFT efforts.

IV. Know Your Customers & Enhanced Due Diligence

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., our Know Your Customer (KYC) and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) procedures are pivotal components of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance strategy. This section highlights the essential aspects of our approach in ensuring thorough customer identification and risk assessment:

Through these KYC and EDD procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains a vigilant stance against potential financial crimes, ensuring the integrity and compliance of our customer relationships.

Comprehensive KYC, CDD, and EDD Procedures at BitFiSwap s.r.o.

 

BitFiSwap s.r.o. has established a set of comprehensive procedures for Know Your Customer (KYC), Customer Due Diligence (CDD), and Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD), which are foundational to our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework. These procedures are crafted to ensure a high standard of client verification and ongoing monitoring, in accordance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

By adhering to these structured KYC, CDD, and EDD procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains a robust framework for client verification and risk management, reinforcing our commitment to compliance and the integrity of financial transactions.

Customer Identity Documentation and Verification

BitFiSwap s.r.o. adheres to a stringent process for the documentation and verification of our customers' identities, which is a crucial aspect of our Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. This process is designed to align with our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework. The key focus of our identity verification includes:

By employing these detailed verification procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures that each customer's identity is thoroughly verified, forming a fundamental part of our commitment to maintaining the integrity and security of our financial services.

Verification of Customer Location

BitFiSwap s.r.o. employs a robust method for determining and verifying the locations of our customers, an essential part of our Know Your Customer (KYC) process and compliance with Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations. Our location verification process involves:

This two-tiered approach to location verification forms a critical aspect of our customer due diligence. While it does not involve direct verification of bank statements, it enables us to make informed assumptions about the customer's location, thus aligning with our overall KYC procedures. This method is instrumental in ensuring compliance with AML/CFT requirements and in mitigating risks associated with geographical discrepancies.

Through these procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains an effective system for location verification, reinforcing the integrity and compliance of our customer onboarding and ongoing monitoring processes.

Jurisdictional Compliance Procedures

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we have implemented a comprehensive set of procedures to ensure that our services align with jurisdictional compliance requirements. These procedures are designed to prevent the use of our services by customers located in prohibited jurisdictions, in accordance with various regulatory standards and platform terms of use. Our approach includes:

By following this methodical process, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures adherence to jurisdictional compliance standards, reinforcing our commitment to legal compliance and operational integrity. This approach is crucial for maintaining a compliant and secure service offering, regardless of the specific platform or regulatory environment.

Documentary Identity Verification and Compliance Protocols

BitFiSwap s.r.o. adopts a stringent approach to identity verification, primarily utilizing documentary methods. This approach is in line with our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework and is designed to ascertain customer identity with precision and reliability.

By employing these documentary methods for identity verification and adhering to strict protocols when verification cannot be achieved, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures the highest standards of due diligence and regulatory compliance are upheld in all our customer relationships.

Documentary Identity Verification and Compliance Approach

BitFiSwap s.r.o. employs a robust system primarily focused on documentary methods for the verification of customer identities, forming a key part of our compliance with Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations. This process is structured as follows:

Through these documentary verification methods and strict adherence to compliance protocols in cases of unverifiable identity, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures the integrity and security of our customer onboarding process, aligning with our overarching commitment to AML/CFT compliance.

Ongoing Customer Due Diligence and Risk-Based Information Updates

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we are committed to conducting ongoing due diligence throughout our relationships with customers, ensuring that their files remain current and reflective of any changes in their risk profile. Our approach, tailored to our scale and operational model, includes the following key components:

Despite the constraints of being a small team, BitFiSwap s.r.o. upholds diligent and rigorous practices in customer due diligence. We adapt our processes to effectively manage and mitigate risk, ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations and maintaining the integrity of our customer relationships.

Approach to Enhanced Due Diligence for High-Risk Customers

In line with our commitment to stringent risk management and AML/CFT compliance, BitFiSwap s.r.o. has adopted a specific policy regarding Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) for potential high-risk customers. This policy includes the following key aspects:

By adhering to this policy, BitFiSwap s.r.o. demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant operational environment. Our approach effectively minimizes exposure to potential AML/CFT risks and underscores our dedication to upholding the integrity of our financial services.

Identification and Assessment of High-Risk Customers

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we have defined clear criteria to identify and assess high-risk customers. Our approach to determining the risk level of customers is based on a set of straightforward yet effective parameters, ensuring compliance with our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework:

Through this process, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures a diligent and effective approach to identifying and managing high-risk customer relationships, in line with our commitment to uphold the highest standards of compliance and risk management.

Procedures for Determining Expected Transaction Profiles of Customers

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we have implemented systematic procedures to determine and understand the expected transaction profiles of our customers. These procedures are integral to our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework and assist in effective risk management:

Through these meticulous procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures a thorough understanding of each customer's expected transaction profile, enhancing our capability to identify and manage potential risks effectively. This commitment to detailed assessment and monitoring is a testament to our dedication to upholding stringent AML/CFT standards and ensuring the integrity of our financial operations.

Policy and Procedures for Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs)

BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains a clear and strict policy regarding the identification, verification, and monitoring of Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs), their family members, close associates, and entities owned or controlled by them. This policy is a critical component of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework and includes the following key procedures:

By adhering to these procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. demonstrates its dedication to upholding high standards of compliance and integrity in financial transactions. Our approach to handling relationships with PEPs is aligned with best practices in risk management and regulatory compliance, reinforcing our commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant operational environment.

V. Watchlist Screenings

BitFiSwap s.r.o. has instituted rigorous watchlist screening procedures as part of its Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance program. This section outlines the key elements of our approach to screening transactions and customers against various watchlists:

Through these watchlist screening practices, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures comprehensive and continuous oversight, aligning our operations with global regulatory standards and minimizing exposure to financial risks.

Automated Systems for Sanctions List Screening

BitFiSwap s.r.o. employs an automated system for screening all transactions against sanctions lists, an integral part of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance framework. This system ensures our adherence to both global and local regulatory standards.

Components of Our Sanctions Screening Program

Our sanctions screening program includes checks against key sanctions lists as part of our due diligence:

The use of the OpenSanctions database in our transaction screening process underscores BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s commitment to maintaining stringent compliance with AML/CFT standards, enhancing our ability to identify and manage potential risks efficiently.

Sanctions List Screening for New Customers

In alignment with our rigorous Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) policies, BitFiSwap s.r.o. implements a stringent process for screening all new customers against sanctions lists. This procedure is a crucial aspect of our customer onboarding process and is conducted before authorizing or processing any transactions.

1.       Pre-Transaction Screening Protocol:

o Our policy mandates that every new customer undergoes a thorough screening against various sanctions lists issued by government and competent authorities. This screening ensures that we do not inadvertently facilitate transactions for individuals, entities, or countries that may be subject to sanctions.

2.       Utilization of Reliable Sanctions Lists:

o The screening process involves checking customer details against up-to-date sanctions lists, including those from OFAC, the United Nations, the European Union, and relevant Czech authorities, among others.

3.       Commitment to Compliance and Security:

o This preemptive screening measure is reflective of BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal compliance and operational security. By ensuring that all new customers are screened against sanctions lists, we safeguard our operations against involvement in prohibited activities and contribute to global efforts in combating financial crimes.

Through these diligent practices, BitFiSwap s.r.o. maintains a robust and compliant framework for customer onboarding, aligning our operations with international best practices and regulatory requirements.

Screening of New Customers Against Regulatory and Law Enforcement Lists

BitFiSwap s.r.o. extends its customer screening process beyond just sanctions lists, ensuring a comprehensive approach to risk management and compliance. Our procedures include detailed checks against a range of regulatory and law enforcement lists, an essential part of our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework.

1.       Broadened Screening Scope:

o In our pursuit to maintain the highest standards of due diligence, we conduct meticulous screenings of all new customers against various other lists issued by regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies. This expanded screening helps us identify any potential red flags or risks that might not be covered by sanctions lists alone.

2.       Diverse List Sources:

o The lists used for screening purposes include, but are not limited to, those compiled by financial regulatory authorities, international law enforcement agencies, and other relevant governmental entities. These lists are vital in identifying individuals or entities involved in activities like financial fraud, corruption, or other criminal conduct.

3.       Proactive Compliance and Risk Mitigation:

o By integrating these additional screenings into our onboarding process, BitFiSwap s.r.o. demonstrates a proactive stance in compliance and risk mitigation. This thorough screening is integral in safeguarding our operations and upholding our commitment to operating within the bounds of legal and ethical standards.

Our approach to customer screening aligns with our overarching objective of ensuring a secure, compliant, and trustworthy financial environment for all our stakeholders.

Screening of New Customers Against Regulatory and Law Enforcement Lists

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., our commitment to rigorous Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance extends to encompassing an all-encompassing screening process for new customers. Alongside sanctions lists, we employ a thorough screening methodology that includes various regulatory and law enforcement lists.

1.       Incorporation of Diverse Lists:

o Our screening process is not confined to sanctions lists alone; it also involves comprehensive checks against a variety of lists curated by regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies. These lists are instrumental in identifying individuals or entities that might pose a heightened risk due to regulatory concerns or potential involvement in unlawful activities.

2.       Scope of Screening:

o The screening encompasses lists that may include, but are not limited to, those maintained by financial regulatory authorities, international and national law enforcement organizations, and other relevant governmental bodies. By screening against these lists, we can detect a wider range of potential risks, such as financial fraud, corruption, or other forms of criminal activities.

3.       Stringent Compliance Measures:

o This extensive approach to customer screening underscores BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s dedication to stringent AML/CFT compliance. We recognize the importance of thorough due diligence in preventing the misuse of financial services and maintaining the integrity of our operations.

By integrating these additional layers of screening into our customer onboarding procedures, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures a robust defense against various forms of financial risks, aligning with our ethos of maintaining a secure and compliant financial environment.

Re-Screening Policy in Context of Corporate Ownership Changes

Within the operational framework of BitFiSwap s.r.o., our primary focus is on serving individual clients, and as such, we are not currently engaged in business relationships with corporate entities. This focus shapes our approach to re-screening against sanctions lists in the context of changes in corporate ownership structure:

1.       Scope of Customer Base:

o Given that our clientele primarily comprises individual customers, scenarios involving changes in corporate ownership structures are not typically relevant to our customer base. This delineation is a key aspect of our customer profile strategy.

2.       Applicability of Re-Screening Process:

o As a result, the process of re-screening customers against sanctions lists due to changes in corporate ownership does not generally apply within the context of our current business model. Our screening and re-screening procedures are tailored to suit the nature and needs of our individual client relationships.

3.       Adherence to AML/CFT Regulations:

o Despite this specific focus, BitFiSwap s.r.o. remains steadfast in its commitment to Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance. We continuously monitor our operational practices and customer profiles to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and best practices in financial compliance.

Our approach to watchlist screenings and re-screening processes reflects BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s dedication to maintaining a compliant and secure environment for our individual clients, adhering to the principles of thorough due diligence and risk assessment.

Frequency of Monitoring for Restricted List Appearances

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we have instituted a stringent policy for the continuous monitoring of our existing customer base to ensure compliance with Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations. This policy includes regular screenings against restricted lists, as follows:

1.       Quarterly Screening Schedule:

o Our compliance framework mandates the systematic review of all existing customers against current restricted lists every three months. This quarterly screening is a critical component of our ongoing due diligence and risk management processes.

2.       Comprehensive Restricted List Checks:

o The restricted lists utilized in these screenings encompass a wide range of sanctions lists and watchlists issued by various government bodies and international authorities. This ensures that our screenings are thorough and align with global compliance standards.

3.       Proactive Risk Mitigation:

o This regular screening frequency allows us to proactively identify any instances where existing customers may have been newly added to a restricted list. Prompt identification of such changes is crucial in managing potential risks and ensuring that we do not facilitate transactions that might contravene AML/CFT regulations.

4.       Commitment to Regulatory Adherence:

o By adhering to this quarterly screening schedule, BitFiSwap s.r.o. demonstrates its unwavering commitment to upholding regulatory compliance and maintaining the integrity of our financial services.

Through these diligent monitoring practices, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures that our customer base remains compliant with the latest regulatory requirements, reinforcing our dedication to operating within a secure and compliant financial environment.

VI. Training

BitFiSwap s.r.o. places a strong emphasis on Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) training as a key component of its compliance framework. This section outlines the integral aspects of our training program designed to equip employees with the necessary knowledge and skills:

Through these training initiatives, BitFiSwap s.r.o. commits to maintaining a well-informed workforce capable of effectively contributing to our AML/CFT efforts, reinforcing our dedication to regulatory compliance and operational integrity.

AML/CFT Training and Certification for Employees

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we place a significant emphasis on ensuring that our employees are well-trained and equipped with the necessary knowledge to effectively contribute to our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) efforts. Our training program includes several key components:

Through this comprehensive training program, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures that our employees are not only aware of their responsibilities in identifying and reporting suspicious activities but also possess the professional knowledge and skills to uphold our internal policies against money laundering and terrorist financing. This approach reinforces our commitment to maintaining a secure, compliant, and vigilant operational environment.

Record Retention of AML/CFT Training Sessions

At BitFiSwap s.r.o., we diligently maintain comprehensive records of all our Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) training sessions. This practice is a fundamental component of our commitment to thorough compliance and effective training management. The specifics of our record retention include:

Through the systematic retention of training records and materials, BitFiSwap s.r.o. upholds a high standard of AML/CFT training. This approach ensures that our employees are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to support our anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing efforts, reinforcing our commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant financial environment.

Communication of New AML/CFT Laws and Policy Updates to Employees

BitFiSwap s.r.o. recognizes the dynamic nature of Anti-Money Laundering/Counter-Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations and the critical importance of keeping our employees informed about new laws and changes to existing policies and practices. Our approach in this regard includes:

1.       Proactive Information Dissemination:

o We actively communicate any updates or changes in AML/CFT-related laws to our relevant employees. This is particularly crucial during periods of significant regulatory transitions, such as the implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.

2.       Integration into Training and Communication Channels:

o Updates on new laws or changes to existing AML/CFT policies are systematically integrated into our ongoing training programs. Additionally, we utilize various internal communication channels to disseminate this information promptly and effectively.

3.       Ensuring Understanding and Compliance:

o Our goal is not only to inform but also to ensure that our employees fully understand these updates and how they impact our operations and practices. This understanding is crucial for maintaining compliance and effectively implementing the changes in our day-to-day activities.

4.       Commitment to Regulatory Alignment:

o This practice of keeping our team updated underscores BitFiSwap s.r.o.'s commitment to remaining aligned with the latest AML/CFT regulatory requirements. It reflects our dedication to fostering a culture of compliance and risk awareness within our organization.

Through these efforts, BitFiSwap s.r.o. ensures that our employees are well-informed and prepared to adapt to the evolving landscape of AML/CFT regulations, reinforcing our ability to uphold the highest standards of legal compliance and operational integrity.