The Hidden Risks of AI Adoption: What SMEs Need to Know Before Sharing Anything
The use of AI in business is growing fast — and so is the risk of AI for SMEs. For many, the appeal is clear: faster output, lower costs, and the promise of working smarter. But in the rush to adopt these tools, one critical question often gets overlooked: What exactly are we sharing with […]
Not Just Paperwork: The Hidden Cost of Lazy Due Diligence in Cross-Boarder Deals
“We’ll sort the paperwork later” Probably the most dangerous last words in any cross-border deals. In business, especially when you’re dealing with partners or suppliers overseas, skipping due diligence isn’t about working faster. It’s about taking a risk you may not even see it coming. and for SMEs, that risk often comes with a price […]
When Risk Doesn’t Look Like Risk: The Details That Tell The Real Story
Not every risk comes with warning signs. In fact, some of the biggest red flags I’ve come across didn’t look like red flags at all. On paper, everything looked exactly as it should – clean reports, good financials, proper documents, and all the right signatures in place. It gave the impression that things were in […]
How Much Due Diligence is Enough? What SMEs Often Miss (and why it matters)
For many small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs), due diligence often stops at basic credit checks and financial reports. If a company exists on paper, has decent financials, and appears legitimate, it feels like enough. But is it? The reality is that due diligence isn’t just about what’s visible. It’s about uncovering what’s hidden. And for […]
Understanding the Fallout from AML Failures and How to Strengthen Your Compliance Framework
In recent years, the financial industry has seen high-profile Anti-Money Laundering (AML) failures that resulted in significant legal and financial consequences. These incidents have highlighted the pressing need for businesses to strengthen their AML practices and compliance framework. In this blog, we’ll explore the ramifications of AML failures, the lessons businesses can learn, and how […]
What is Business Intelligence and How Does it Transform Businesses
Business Intelligence or Human Source Intelligence, often referred to as Human Intelligence (HUMINT) in the context of intelligence gathering, refers to the process of getting information through human interactions, interviews or other human-centred methods. This type of enquiry typically involves collecting data from individuals who possess relevant knowledge or insights about a subject, situation, organization […]
The Importance of Due Diligence and Compliance for Business in 2025
In 2025, businesses around the world are facing an increasingly complex regulatory and financial environment. Due diligence and compliance are no longer exceptional – they are essential practices that can make or break a company’s success. From startups to established enterprises, the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and staying compliant with legal standards has […]
US Sanctions on Malaysia Companies: A Reminder of Global Compliance
The recent sanctions imposed by the United States on six Malaysian companies highlight the increasing scrutiny businesses face when operating in international markets. These sanctions were issued due to the alleged involvement of these companies in supporting Russia’s military-industrial base, particularly through the supply of restricted goods such as microelectronics and advanced manufacturing equipment. For […]
Understanding Third-Party Risk and Its Importance for Businesses
In today’s interconnected business world, third-party risk management (TPRM) has become a critical focus for organizations. As companies increasingly depend on external vendors for essential services ranging from suppliers and contractors to cloud service providers and outsourced IT solutions, the need for robust risk management strategies has never been more pressing. While third-party partnerships are […]
TD Bank’s $3 Billion Settlement for AML Failures
The $3 billion settlement involving TD Banks and U.S. regulators serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of robust anti-money laundering (AML) practices. With over $670 million laundered through its accounts, TD Bank’s systemic compliance failures highlight the risks when financial institutions prioritize growth over regulatory obligations. The settlement illustrates the far-reaching consequences […]
