Unlawful access to personal data: a stark warning for employees and organisations

For years, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has been clear about the importance of protecting personal data, holding organisations and individuals to account for breaches under data protection law. However, a recent case has highlighted the potentially severe consequences for those who unlawfully access personal data – including the very real prospect of imprisonment. In […]

What are the top compliance trends for 2025?

2025 will bring significant compliance challenges for businesses across the world. The inauguration of the second Trump administration will bring immediate shifts in policy around sanctions. Companies must stay vigilant, especially regarding sanctions on countries like Russia and Iran, as violations could lead to hefty fines. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs will come under […]

Creating menopause-friendly workplaces: insights from VinciWorks’ Menopause Forum

On 11 December, 2024, VinciWorks hosted an enlightening forum featuring over a hundred HR professionals, addressing an often-overlooked but critical diversity and inclusion topic: menopause in the workplace. Spearheaded by Sara Henna Dahan, VinciWorks’ learning and content manager, and compliance expert Naomi Grossman, the event aimed to foster an open discussion on creating menopause-friendly workplaces. […]

Will the UK courts have their say on data protection?

With the UK’s forthcoming Data (Use and Access) Bill set to make significant changes to the UK’s data protection regime, the operation of GDPR in the UK is set to change significantly in the coming year. Beyond the legislative agenda on data protection, the UK courts may decide to have their say on the thorny […]

Trends in AML compliance: What law firms need to know for 2025

The regulatory landscape for law firms in the UK is undergoing a seismic shift as the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) tightens its enforcement of anti-money laundering (AML) compliance. With significant fines, increased scrutiny, and the potential for substantial operational disruptions on the horizon, firms must act swiftly to adapt. Here’s a comprehensive look at the […]

How the 2025 German Federal election could reshape Europe

After the collapse of the ruling coalition government in Berlin on 7 November 2024, the stage has been set for a snap election on February 23, 2025 in Europe’s most important economy. With a notable rightward shift in European politics and a newly inaugurated EU Commission (and second Trump Administration), will the 2025 German election […]

What’s new in AML and sanctions compliance in 2025? Significant changes for letting agents

Letting agents, alongisde high value dealers, art market participants and insolvency practitioners in the UK are facing significant changes in 2025 as the government moves to tighten anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and financial sanctions reporting obligations. Starting 14 May 2025, financial sanctions reporting obligations will apply to all letting agency work, regardless of the rental […]

Kleptocrat crackdown: the UK just sanctioned Africa’s wealthiest woman

Following on from Angola’s recent grey listing by the FATF for serious deficiencies in the country’s anti-money laundering regime, Angolan figures continue to be sanctioned by the international community.     Isabel dos Santos, the daughter of former Angolan President José Eduardo dos Santos and once Africa’s wealthiest woman, has faced mounting legal battles on […]