Self-protecting theory – A classical grounded theory study of money laundering reporting officers

(MLROs)

Abdullahi Usman Bello

• Background and purpose of the study• Self-protecting theory• Contribution

Background of the study• Definition of money laundering • Effects of ML activities • International efforts to combat it

Purpose of the study • Understand the AML environment

• Discover a grounded theory • Make recommendations

Research questions • Who are MLROs? • What is their main concern?• How are they resolving it ?

The self-protecting theory

The self-protecting theory

the more unfair pressure in exerted on MLROs the more they protect themselves.

The self-protecting framework

Tough and weak regulation: Bad regulationSmart and self-regulation: Good regulation

The middle course approach

• In-between smart and self-regulation• An effective and efficient approach • Independence and increased fairness

Classical grounded theory • Rigorous• Unconventional • Effective

ContributionA theory in AMLAn assessment framework A plausible recommendation General application of the theory