Person-to-Business (P2B) transactions — notably between users and platforms (VASP), merchants, or services — represent a strategic control point in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing (AML/CFT). Unlike wallet-to-wallet transactions, they involve an identifiable entity, which provides institutions with a direct opportunity for regulation and oversight.

The first key measure relies on strengthening KYC/KYB mechanisms. Platforms and businesses must not only identify their users but also understand the nature of the activities of counterparties (merchants, service providers, fintech). This approach allows for the detection of inconsistencies between customer profiles and transactional behavior, a strong signal in money laundering logics.

Next, implementing transaction monitoring systems is essential. VASPs must be able to analyze incoming and outgoing flows in real time, identify atypical transactions (unusual amounts, high frequency, high-risk geographic areas) and generate alerts that are actionable by compliance teams. The integration of blockchain analytics tools enhances this capability by providing visibility into the source of funds.

Another major lever is the effective application of the Travel Rule, which imposes the sharing of information between institutions on the parties involved in a transaction. In the P2B context, this requirement is more easily applicable, as entities are identified and regulated. Aligning with the standards allows for structuring reliable and actionable information exchanges on an international scale.

Moreover, the classification of customer and transaction risks (risk-based approach) must be systematized. Not all users present the same level of risk, and a differentiated approach allows for the efficient allocation of compliance resources. For example, a user making repeated transactions with high-risk jurisdictions or sensitive services should be subject to enhanced scrutiny.

Finally, collaboration with authorities and regional actors is crucial. The plays a key role here in supporting states in implementing harmonized frameworks tailored to African realities, particularly in environments dominated by P2P and mobile money.

In summary, P2B transactions are not just a point of risk, but above all a point of strategic control. When well framed, they allow capturing, analyzing, and regulating a large part of crypto flows.

If the wallet → wallet is a gray area,

the P2B is clearly the area of control.