BSA/AML in 2025: What Financial Institutions Need to Focus On Now
This blog was written by Riskscout, an SQN Partner
We’re well into 2025, and BSA/AML compliance is more critical than ever. No longer just about meeting regulatory expectations, financial institutions must protect customers and themselves with increased scrutiny.
Why It Matters More Than Ever
Significant developments have pushed BSA/AML to the forefront, including:
Regulators Are Paying Attention
Despite talk of easing specific banking rules under the new administration, FinCEN has made its stance clear: BSA/AML enforcement is still a top priority. As one official put it, “Blocking criminals from using banks for financial crimes has been a priority area, and you are going to see enforcement actions.”
Penalties Are Growing
More than 120 enforcement actions, including billion-dollar fines, occurred just last year. But it wasn’t only the big banks under fire. Smaller institutions—some with less than $25 million in assets—also saw penalties, proving that no one is safe.
Evolving Priorities
FinCEN expects institutions to explicitly integrate its eight national priorities into their BSA/AML frameworks. These include corruption, cybercrime, terrorist financing, fraud, and human trafficking, among others. Understanding and addressing these areas is now a core part of compliance.
How RiskScout Helps
RiskScout gives AML teams the tools they need to manage compliance with confidence. Designed by former regulators and BSA professionals, the platform helps institutions strengthen their programs without adding unnecessary complexity.
- Customizable risk assessments aligned with current priorities
- Automated workflows that reduce manual tasks
- Audit-ready documentation and streamlined case tracking
- Intuitive tools to detect and respond to potential threats
As Anthony Marchetti, COO / EVP of Stryv Bank, put it:
“I highly recommend working with RiskScout for anyone in need of a BSA/AML vendor. I’ve had an outstanding experience working with them – their professionalism, BSA knowledge, and customer service exceeded my expectations.”
The Bottom Line
BSA/AML compliance in 2025 isn’t a formality. It’s a core part of your institution’s strategy. With higher expectations and real consequences for falling short, AML teams need tools that keep pace.
Looking to keep your FI and customers safe? RiskScout helps you stay compliant, reduce risk, and prepare for whatever comes next.
Want to learn more about how RiskScout can help your financial institution? Reach out to them directly and take the B***S*** out of your BSA program today: https://www.riskscout.com/contact-us