Beneficial Ownership Information

Definition ∞ Beneficial ownership information identifies the true natural persons who ultimately own or control a legal entity. This data goes beyond nominal legal ownership to reveal individuals who exercise significant influence or receive substantial economic benefits. Collecting this information is a critical component of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts. It helps authorities trace illicit funds and prevent the misuse of shell companies.
Context ∞ The collection and reporting of beneficial ownership information are receiving heightened global attention, particularly with new legislation like the Corporate Transparency Act in the United States. This regulatory push aims to reduce the opacity that criminals exploit to conceal assets and conduct illegal activities through corporate structures. The ongoing discussion centers on the scope of reporting requirements and effective data management for this sensitive information.