A large financial institution with offices worldwide has failed to comply with anti-money laundering laws. Which of the following would not be a sanction that may apply?

• A. Suspension of license
• B. Criminal penalties
• C. Fine of $10
• D. Cease and desist

Answer: (C)

Enforcement actions for AML violations are designed to deter misconduct and restore compliance. Regulatory authorities can suspend or revoke a financial institution’s license, impose criminal penalties for willful or egregious violations, or issue cease-and-desist orders to stop illegal activities. A nominal fine of ten dollars wouldn’t function as a credible sanction for a large, global institution—the amount is far too small to deter or remediate widespread noncompliance and doesn’t reflect standard penalty practices for AML breaches. Fines, when they do occur, are typically substantial and tied to the severity of the violation, making them effective consequences. The other sanctions described are real regulatory remedies, while a token ten-dollar fine wouldn’t be appropriate as a sanction in this context.