Perception of the Brazilian Accounting Professional on Suspected Money Laundering Operations

Abstract

This research analyzed the perception and knowledge of Brazilian accounting professionals regarding the communication of Money Laundering signs. The study is based on the Anti-Money Laundering policy of the Vienna Convention, 1988, which stipulated the criminalization of Money Laundering as a means of financing other crimes and distorting the allocation of market resources. In Brazil it was regulated in 1998 (Law 9.613, 1998), and is currently also applied to accounting professionals and regulated by the accountants themselves (CFC Resolution 1.530, 2017). The research presents an exploratory approach, with instrument built from the local standard, applied by electronic form to 215 respondents. The analysis included the application of parametric statistical techniques, descriptive and correlation analysis to determine the results. The results indicate that accounting professionals consider themselves responsible for acting to combat money laundering, but with limited level of training and knowledge of circumstances, and preference for the use of internal channels. The main fears that can affect behavior are job loss, reprisals and harassment. From the results of the perception of knowledge about Money Laundering circum-stances, organizations can develop specific methodologies and training to mitigate the risks of employee noncommunication.