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KYC

Checks used by regulated institutions to establish customer identity and understand relevant ownership and risk information.

Search terms: Know Your Customer customer due diligence

A business example

A bank asks a new company customer to explain why the person signing its account form differs from the main shareholder.

How the roles connectFictional business scenario
  1. Entity identity

    The bank checks the company's formation and identity records.

  2. Authority

    The company supplies the basis for the signatory's authority.

  3. Ownership and control

    The company explains its ownership chain and relevant controlling persons.

What this shows

A signatory, director and beneficial owner may be different people. A consistent document trail helps explain their different roles.

What it is often confused with

Submitting documents once does not mean information never needs updating or further explanation.

What to look at in your business

Keep identity and ownership particulars consistent with the institution's request.

Context and further reading

RBI: Know Your Customer directions. This reference supports the terminology; use the linked guide for applicability and operative requirements.

Fundraising, mergers and acquisitions →

Related terms

Bank guarantee

A bank's undertaking to a beneficiary under stated guarantee terms on behalf of its customer.

Letter of credit

A bank payment undertaking tied to presentation of documents complying with its stated conditions.

Collateral

An asset or interest provided as security for an obligation, subject to the relevant documentation and law.