Definition of Money Services Business
Under the Money Services Act (2010 Revision) the term money services business is defined as
- the business of providing (as a principal business) any or all of the following services:-
- money transmission
- cheque cashing
- currency exchange
- the issuance or, sale or redemption of money orders or travellers checks
- such other services as the Governor in Council may specify by notice published in the Gazette
- the business of operating as an agent or franchise holder of a business mentioned under (1).
Regulation of Money Services Business
The Money Services Act (2010 Revision) provides for the licensing of all money services businesses and for the regulation of such businesses by the Monetary Authority. The on-going supervision of money services businesses falls under the remit of the Banking Supervision Division.
Requirements
Those institutions that provide the above mentioned services in the Cayman Islands are required:
- to be licensed in accordance with the licensing requirements
- to meet the minimum net worth requirements establish in act;
- to have two directors;
- to obtain the Authority's written approval prior to the appointment of all directors and officers (N.B.: if the Authority is of the opinion that the director or officer is not a fit and proper person, it may reserve the right to refuse to grant approval of the appointment);
- to be in compliance with the Money Laundering Regulations;
- to submit quarterly returns as specified by CIMA; and
- to provide CIMA with annual audited financial statements.