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Why Join GACO?

Why should you join GACO or renew your Membership? 

Individuals and Companies subject to money laundering regulations in Gibraltar should join the Gibraltar Association of Compliance Officers (GACO) for several compelling reasons:

Enhanced Knowledge and Expertise

  • Up-to-date Information: GACO provides members with the latest updates on compliance laws, regulations, and best practices, which are constantly evolving in the financial crime prevention landscape.
  • Specialised Training: GACO offers and facilitates relevant educational programs, training courses, seminars, and presentations specifically tailored to the Gibraltar jurisdiction. This includes their own Professional Compliance Certificate in AML, CTF, and CPF, which is Gibraltar-specific and recognised by employers and regulators.
  • Access to Resources: Members often gain access to exclusive resources, such as the Gibraltar Compliance Manual, and training materials to aid in their daily compliance functions.
  • Partnerships with Recognised Bodies: GACO partners with international organizations like the International Compliance Association (ICA), offering members discounts on globally recognized compliance courses and certifications.
  • Leveraging European Partnerships: Connecting with experienced professionals gains a new dimension through our ENFCO partnership, offering access to a wider network for support and insights on cross-border compliance issues.

Networking and Collaboration

  • Forum for Discussion: GACO provides a platform for compliance professionals from various sectors to discuss challenges, share knowledge, and exchange best practices in a confidential environment.
  • Peer Support: Connecting with like-minded and experienced professionals can offer invaluable support and insights for navigating complex compliance issues.
  • Industry Engagement: GACO acts as a representative body, liaising with the Gibraltar Government, the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC), and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring members' interests are considered.
  • Joint Events: GACO collaborates with other industry bodies and regulators on events, fostering a more integrated approach to compliance within Gibraltar.

Professional Development and Recognition

  • Enhance Professional Standing: Membership demonstrates a commitment to professional development and adherence to high standards in compliance.

  • Certification and Accreditation: GACO's Professional Compliance Certificate provides a recognized validation of the necessary knowledge and experience for Compliance Officers and MLROs in Gibraltar.
  • Continuous Professional Development (CPD): GACO supports the ongoing development of its members through training and events, ensuring they remain competent and up-to-date.

Influence and Advocacy

  • Collective Voice: As a collective, GACO can better represent the views and concerns of compliance professionals to regulatory bodies and contribute to the development of effective compliance frameworks in Gibraltar.
  • Shaping the Industry: By actively participating in GACO, members can contribute to raising the overall standards of compliance within Gibraltar's financial and regulated sectors.
  • Collective Voice (Amplified in Europe): As a collective, GACO can better represent the views and concerns of compliance professionals to regulatory bodies. Our partnership with ENFCO amplifies this voice on a European platform, allowing us to contribute to broader discussions and potentially influence European compliance policies relevant to Gibraltar-regulated entities.

Cost-Effective Benefits

  • Discounted Training: Members often receive discounts on GACO's training courses, certifications, and events, providing cost savings for professional development.
  • Value for Money: The membership fees offer significant value in terms of access to knowledge, networking opportunities, and professional support.

GACO: Strengthening Compliance and Collaboration

Joining GACO offers individuals and companies in Gibraltar (and in the Campo de Gibraltar Region) a valuable opportunity to enhance their compliance capabilities, stay informed about regulatory developments, network with industry peers, and contribute to a stronger and more robust compliance culture within the jurisdiction. This ultimately benefits the individual companies, the broader financial services sector in Gibraltar, and the jurisdiction's reputation as a well-regulated and responsible financial centre.