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Regulatory Warnings Ignored: Canadian Arm of China's Largest Bank Faces Scrutiny

The Canadian subsidiary of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the world's largest bank, has come under fire for repeatedly violating anti-money laundering regulations. Despite multiple warnings from Canada's financial intelligence unit, FINTRAC, the bank failed to address critical compliance issues. These included neglecting to file suspicious transaction reports and not treating high-risk activities with the required level of scrutiny. A routine audit in 2019 revealed several administrative violations, leading to a fine of $701,250 issued in 2021. The violations highlight systemic lapses in the bank's financial crime compliance controls, raising concerns about its commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The case underscores the importance of robust regulatory oversight and the need for financial institutions to prioritize compliance to maintain the integrity of the financial system.

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Court Battle Aims to Reopen Parliament Amid Prorogation Crisis

A novel legal challenge has hit the Federal Court as opponents seek to force MPs back to work before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s prorogation period ends. Filed by the Calgary-based Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms on February 13, 2025, the suit argues that suspending parliamentary business until late March undermines democracy by preventing legislators from addressing urgent issues—including the looming U.S. tariff threat and stalled legislation like the capital gains tax reform.

Critics claim the prorogation was a politically motivated tactic designed to delay accountability during a turbulent period. They assert that Parliament’s essential role—to debate policy and hold the government to account—is compromised when the House sits on hiatus. With the hearing scheduled for later this week, legal experts say the outcome could set an important precedent on the limits of executive power and parliamentary rights.

As Canada navigates political uncertainty amid a leadership transition, the challenge highlights growing calls for transparency and a more robust system of checks and balances.


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