The role of banks in the process of shadowing the Ukrainian economy

Abstract

Introduction. The relevance of the article is due to the growing role of banking institutions in the process of shadowing the Ukrainian economy, which negatively affects the financial stability of the state. Problem Statement. The shadow economy has been identified as one of the main threats to the economic stability and security of the state. The study of the role of banking institutions in illegal transactions by entities whose purpose is money laundering, using various schemes and methods of financial fraud, is considered from the standpoint of substantiating directions and effective tools for countering shadowing of the economy. The implementation of such measures at the national and corporate level in accordance with international norms will make it possible to strengthen control over banking transactions, increase stability of the banking and financial systems and, ultimately, improve the level of economic security of the country. Purpose. Analysis of the role of banking institutions in the shadow economy, justification of directions and tools for counteracting the participation of banks in the shadow economy. Methods. The methodological basis of the study is the fundamental provisions of economic theory, theories of management and state regulation of the economy, economic and mathematical modeling, the theory of money, finance and credit, scientific achievements on the shadow economy and measures to counteract its manifestations. Results. The study identifies the role of banking institutions and proposes a typology of forms of their participation in the shadow economy, including: legalization of proceeds of crime; use of correspondent accounts; use of fictitious companies and front persons; offshore accounts; lending and deposit operations of banks; securities manipulation; and other financial fraud. The impact of these mechanisms on the economic stability of the state and the banking system is analyzed. A comparative analysis of international experience in combating money laundering is carried out, and effective tools for preventing shadow operations are identified. The trends and factors of shadowing the Ukrainian economy are analyzed. To assess the impact of banking institutions on the spread of the shadow economy, it is proposed to use the Simpson distribution for shadow cash flows and discount rates with the participation of banking institutions. The instruments of counteracting the participation of banks in the processes of shadowing the Ukrainian economy are substantiated. Conclusions. Further research is planned to focus on the impact of modern digital technologies, such as blockchain and cryptocurrencies, on money laundering through banking institutions. A promising area is the development of innovative methods of financial monitoring and identification of suspicious transactions, in particular with the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning. It is also important to study the effectiveness of international cooperation and develop recommendations for improving the legislative framework for combating money laundering through banking institutions.