Government has published its first standalone Legal Persons and Arrangements National Risk Assessment.
The report evaluates money laundering and terrorist financing risks associated with companies, trusts, foundations and partnerships operating in or through the jurisdiction.
It identifies a High money‑laundering threat and a Medium‑Low terrorist‑financing threat, largely linked to foreign criminal activity.
Complex, multi‑jurisdictional structures are highlighted as a major risk factor, with legal entities appearing more frequently in Suspicious Activity Reports and Mutual Legal Assistance Requests.
National vulnerability is assessed as Medium‑High for money laundering and Medium for terrorist financing, though the assessment notes strong safeguards, including robust beneficial ownership rules, regulation of Trust and Corporate Service Providers, and effective cooperation between agencies.
The report also flags emerging risks such as the potential misuse of artificial intelligence, while acknowledging opportunities for technology‑driven detection.
National Risk Assessment
The Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Jane Poole‑Wilson MHK, said: “Whilst our island is a comparatively safe place, we will not tolerate those who seek to misuse our legal structures for criminal purposes.
“This is our first standalone Legal Persons and Arrangements National Risk Assessment. It has been informed by extensive collaboration across government, regulators, law enforcement and industry, particularly the TCSP sector.
“That partnership is essential to protecting the Island’s reputation and ensuring that legitimate business can continue to thrive within a strong and trusted regulatory environment. It also reinforces our shared commitment to international standards, transparency and an all‑Island approach to tackling financial crime.
“As a responsible jurisdiction, our message is clear: we will not tolerate those who seek to commit crime either on or through our island.”
The report can be found here.
