Banking Compliance

Definition ∞ Banking compliance refers to the adherence of financial institutions to all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing their operations. These rules aim to prevent illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorist financing, protect consumers, and maintain financial system stability. It includes obligations like Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties and reputational harm.
Context ∞ Banking compliance presents a critical challenge for cryptocurrency entities seeking mainstream financial system access. Traditional banks apply stringent compliance frameworks to crypto businesses, often citing concerns about pseudonymity and potential for illicit use. This regulatory friction impacts crypto firm operations and their ability to secure banking services. Regulatory bodies globally are working to adapt existing compliance rules or create new ones specifically for digital assets.