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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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Frozen Fronts: Ontario Battles Record Snowfall and Widespread Disruptions

 

A powerful winter storm has blanketed Southern Ontario with over 20 centimetres of fresh snow, leaving communities struggling to keep up with closures and hazardous road conditions. The heavy snowfall, which began Wednesday night and continued into early Thursday, has prompted numerous school boards to cancel classes and halt bus services across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond.

Municipal authorities have declared a “major snowstorm condition,” urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel as ploughs and winter equipment work around the clock to clear the roads. With wind gusts reaching up to 60 km/h, blowing snow has significantly reduced visibility, further complicating commuting efforts. Toronto’s Pearson International Airport reported over 23 centimetres of snowfall, marking one of the most substantial winter events in recent memory.

Residents are advised to brace for an extended recovery period, as a “clean-up day” is slated for Friday, though officials warn that the icy conditions may persist for days. Adding to the challenges, forecasters have signalled that another storm system is approaching for the Family Day weekend, potentially delivering an additional 10 to 20 centimetres of snow.

Local authorities continue to update the public via weather alerts and social media, emphasizing the importance of staying indoors and checking travel advisories before venturing out. As Ontario digs out from this snowy onslaught, caution remains the watchword on the roads.


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