Bankers Training Press Releases

CHICAGO (October 2006)— BAI, the leading provider of education and training solutions to the financial services industry, announced the introduction of the BAI Anti-Money Laundering Professional Certification, offered through BAI Bankers Training & Certification Center.

"Anti-money laundering prevention and detection is a critical issue today with the demands placed on financial institutions by the Bank Secrecy Act and the USA PATRIOT Act," said Deborah L. Bianucci, President and CEO of BAI. "Financial services companies have found it necessary to increase AML training and strengthen policies and procedures to avoid potential criminal risks and to meet regulatory examination requirements. This new certification will enable professionals to document AML expertise and demonstrate responsiveness to regulatory requirements."

The BAI Anti-Money Laundering Professional (AMLP) Certification program is a valuable educational opportunity for anti-money laundering and Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) professionals, employed within financial institutions or national and state regulatory agencies. Under the certification program, candidates are required to pass an extensive examination and document their experience in AML, BSA, Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR), Office of Foreign Affairs and Control (OFAC) and the USA PATRIOT Act. Following certification, individuals are required to meet ongoing continuing education requirements.

Additionally, BAI Bankers Training & Certification Center will offer the BAI Anti-Money Laundering Diploma program for front-line staff who need to be proficient in day-to-day AML operational issues.

"The BAI AML Diploma program provides an additional way to demonstrate the high level of competency of a financial institution's staff," added Bianucci. "Enhancing the quality of BSA reviews and improving early detection of illegal money laundering activities contribute to the overall safety and soundness of the organization."

The BAI AMLP Certification and BAI AML Diploma programs enhance the current suite of certifications available through the BAI Bankers Training & Certification Center. BAI also provides a variety of training opportunities for individuals seeking information on this topic. A complete listing of BAI seminars, training courses and certification requirements are available at www.bai.org/amlp

BAI is the financial services industry's leading professional organization focused on enhancing employee and organizational performance. Through ground-breaking research and an award-winning magazine, Banking Strategies, BAI provides the latest insights on complex, strategic issues in financial services. Through seminars, graduate schools and conferences - including the industry's premier event, BAI Retail Delivery Conference & Expo - BAI reaches thousands of financial services professionals each year to deliver content designed around critical business needs and to facilitate vital connections between financial services professionals, industry experts and solutions providers. Focusing on business issues and performance drivers, BAI applies its extensive line of training, metrics and employee assessments to help clients leverage their most important asset - their employees.