Golden Ark Reserve applies strict AML and KYC standards to every client and transaction. Identification, source-of-funds verification, and ongoing monitoring ensure compliance with FATF, EU AMLD, and UAE regulations.
AML/KYC Policy: Protecting Clients and Institutions
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies are integral to every custody operation. At Golden Ark Reserve, we apply international standards to verify client identity, assess the source of funds, and monitor transactions on an ongoing basis. This ensures that custody services remain fully compliant with regulators, trusted by banks, and secure for clients. By protecting both financial institutions and individual investors, AML/KYC safeguards data integrity, prevents illicit activity, and builds the foundation of transparent custody relationships.
Compliance Assured
Golden Ark Reserve AML/KYC Framework
Full compliance with FATF, OECD, and local regulatory standards
Identity verification and client screening across multiple jurisdictions
Protection against global sanctions, embargoes, and PEP risks
Encrypted storage of sensitive client data with institutional-grade security
Ongoing monitoring of transactions to ensure transparency and trust
Verification of personal and corporate documents ensures that all clients are properly identified before custody services begin.
Source of Funds Verification
Proof of funds and transaction history are reviewed to confirm the legitimacy and regulatory alignment of every allocation.
Transaction Monitoring
All settlements are continuously screened against AML databases and sanctions lists to detect unusual or restricted activity.
Risk Assessment
Each client is assigned a risk profile, with enhanced due diligence applied to higher-risk categories.
Reporting Obligations
Suspicious transactions are flagged and reported in line with FATF guidelines and international AML standards.
International Standards Alignment
Policies are designed under FATF, EU AML directives, and UAE regulatory requirements, ensuring global recognition.
Regulatory Framework
Step-by-Step AML/KYC Compliance Process
A structured AML/KYC process secures gold custody by verifying client identity, assessing the legitimacy of funds, and monitoring transactions in line with international regulations.
01
Onboarding
Collection of client documents, including passports, corporate registrations, and proof of address.
02
Verification
Validation of identity, background checks, and confirmation of the source of funds before settlement.
03
Monitoring
Continuous transaction screening against sanctions lists, AML databases, and politically exposed person (PEP) registries.
04
Reporting
Suspicious activity is reported to regulators in line with FATF and local AML requirements, ensuring transparency.
Compliance Assurance
AML/KYC Policy in Gold Custody
Why AML/KYC Matters in Custody
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) frameworks are not optional in gold custody — they are the foundation of every transaction. Without them, clients risk exposure to regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and even blocked settlements by banks. For institutions, AML/KYC ensures that custody operations remain fully transparent, compliant, and recognized across jurisdictions. For private clients, these policies guarantee that personal data and financial records are treated with strict confidentiality and regulatory care.
Core Elements of AML/KYC Compliance
Client Identification and Verification All clients are verified with official identification and corporate records. This process ensures that only legitimate entities enter custody agreements.
Source of Funds and Wealth Checks Funds used for gold custody are reviewed through bank statements, audited financials, or transaction histories. This step eliminates risks associated with illicit capital or hidden ownership.
Transaction Screening and Monitoring All settlements via SWIFT, SEPA, or approved digital assets are continuously screened against sanctions lists, PEP registries, and global AML databases. Automated screening tools detect irregular activity and prevent unauthorized transfers.
Risk Profiling and Enhanced Due Diligence Each client is assigned a risk profile. High-risk categories — including politically exposed persons or clients operating in sensitive jurisdictions — undergo enhanced due diligence with stricter verification and monitoring.
Reporting and Regulatory Cooperation Suspicious activity is flagged and reported to regulators in line with FATF recommendations, EU directives, and UAE requirements. This ensures that Golden Ark Reserve remains a trusted counterpart for banks and financial institutions worldwide.
Institutional Confidence Through Compliance
AML/KYC compliance is not just about legal obligations — it is about protecting the integrity of custody services. For family offices, funds, and corporate treasuries, strict compliance ensures uninterrupted banking relationships, transparent audits, and recognition by regulators. For private clients, it guarantees that personal data is stored securely, encrypted, and accessed only by authorized compliance officers.
Conclusion
Golden Ark Reserve integrates AML and KYC at every stage of custody — from onboarding to reporting. By combining international standards with advanced screening technologies, AML/KYC policies provide assurance that client assets are legally protected, transactions are compliant, and personal data is secure. This framework builds trust with regulators, banks, and clients, making gold custody a transparent and globally recognized service.
F.A.Q.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are required for KYC verification?
Passports, corporate registrations, and proof of address are required for client identification. Depending on the risk profile, additional documents may be requested, such as tax records, bank references, or ownership declarations e.t.c.
How is the source of funds verified?
Clients provide bank statements, audited financials, or transaction records. In high-risk cases, enhanced documentation such as contracts, invoices, or independent legal opinions may be required.
How often must KYC documents be updated?
KYC records are reviewed periodically and must be refreshed whenever documents expire or client circumstances change. For higher-risk clients, updates may be required more frequently in line with AML directives.
What databases are used for AML checks?
Transactions are screened against global AML databases, sanctions lists, and politically exposed person (PEP) registries. Additional regional databases may be used depending on the jurisdiction and risk profile.
How is sensitive client data protected?
All personal and financial data is encrypted and stored in secure environments with restricted access. Data retention and processing comply with GDPR, UAE data protection laws, and international privacy standards.
Who oversees AML/KYC compliance at Golden Ark Reserve?
A dedicated compliance team manages onboarding, verification, and monitoring. Independent auditors periodically review procedures, and regulators may request access to records as required.
Are AML/KYC policies recognized internationally?
Yes. The framework follows FATF guidelines, EU AML directives, and UAE regulations, ensuring recognition and compatibility across international banking and regulatory systems.
What happens if a suspicious transaction is detected?
It is immediately flagged, reviewed by compliance officers, and escalated for enhanced due diligence. If risks remain, the case is reported to regulators in accordance with AML obligations, and transactions may be frozen until cleared.
Do AML/KYC checks delay transactions?
Standard verifications are streamlined to minimize delays. Enhanced due diligence for high-risk cases may take longer, but settlement only proceeds once all compliance requirements are satisfied.
Can clients request a copy of the AML/KYC policy?
Yes. A compliance summary is available on request, and the full policy framework is provided during onboarding as part of the client agreement package.
