This course provides a technical examination of the supervisory and investigative powers granted under Part 3 of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO) in Hong Kong. It is designed for SFC-licensed professionals to understand the regulatory mechanisms that authorize competent authorities to conduct inspections and investigations. As Hong Kong continues to strengthen its position as a global financial hub, the ability for regulators to monitor compliance effectively is paramount. Practitioners must understand these statutory powers to ensure their organizations maintain high standards of integrity and institutional readiness when subject to regulatory review.

The regulatory framework of Part 3 establishes the procedures and limitations governing how inspections are initiated and carried out. The curriculum addresses the definitions of prescribed persons, the operational scope of routine inspection powers, and the specific mandates associated with document production and statutory declarations. This section of the ordinance provides the foundation for how the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and other relevant authorities exercise oversight over both traditional financial intermediaries and newer sectors, including virtual asset service providers. Participants will gain clarity on the jurisdictional reach of these powers, including the definition of business premises and the nuances of conducting investigations.

The course is structured to guide learners through the progression from routine supervisory inspections to formal investigative procedures. Key segments analyze the legal obligations of regulated entities during an investigation, the role of appointed investigators, and the specific offences related to non-compliance, such as failure to produce records or providing false information. Furthermore, the content explores the critical area of international cooperation. By examining how authorities provide regulatory assistance, particularly regarding digital assets and cross-border enforcement, learners will understand the mechanisms that allow Hong Kong to align with international AML and CFT standards.