Author: Michael Volkov

The Ever-Evolving Framework for Third-Party Risk Management

Compliance has its lingo — and one particular one I like, Third-Party Risk Management or “TPRM.”  Years ago, everyone cited third-party risks.  Now, we use TPRM as if everyone knows exactly what it stands for.  The language usually evolves with the substance.  And that is certainly true. The coverage of third-party risk has expanded with the years to embrace many new risks, issues and challenges....

Webinar: DOJ Pushes Aggressive Trade Enforcement Strategy

Webinar: DOJ Pushes Aggressive Trade Enforcement Strategy October 21, 2025, 12 Noon Sign-Up HERE The Trump Administration has warned that DOJ and regulatory agencies (OFAC, BIS and DDTC) intend to seek stiff punishment for violations of tariffs, sanctions and export controls. DOJ’s new initiative has been unveiled in two significant enforcement actions — Cadence Design Systems and Unicat Catalyst — where DOJ organized a comprehensive...

DOJ Settles Two False Claims Act Cases for Evasion of Customs Duties

The Trump Justice Department has fully embraced the False Claims Act, stretching its use to include trade enforcement.  DOJ recognizes the power of the FCA, the issues at stake, and the ability to extract large settlements.  DOJ has used the FCA to capture companies that evade customs duties.  DOJ’s recent actions are a reminder for import companies to carefully scrutinize valuation and customs duties to...

Episode 385 –Five Strategies to Mitigate a New Risk Environment

What do you do when the headlines shift faster than your risk matrix can keep up? In this episode, Michael Volkov dives into the challenge of adapting compliance programs in the face of volatile and fast-changing global risks—from tariffs and trade controls to supply chain disruptions and third-party exposures. While the pressure to react is constant, the real key is staying anchored in your company’s...

Checking In with Trump’s DOJ On Antitrust Enforcement

The Trump Administration’s handling of antitrust enforcement issues is generally viewed as a wild-card — meaning there are issues of concern or focus that may not fit the “traditional” antitrust enforcement model. Depending on the issue and the players, DOJ’s antitrust interest may surprise various practitioners and commentators. Trump’s nomination of Gail Slater as DOJ’s Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division was universally praised...

Episode 384 — Third-Party Risks and Sanctions

With the beginning of the aggressive trade enforcement era, companies need to focus on third-party risk and sanctions enforcement. The law, the practice, and the risks are important. As we embark on a new criminal enforcement era surrounding sanctions violations, companies have to address this issue and do it correctly. In this episode, Michael Volkov takes a comprehensive look at third-party risks from the distribution...

Threat Digital Enhances its DiligenAI with Network Report Feature

With all of the hoopla and hysteria focused on AI and information systems, Threat.Digital, a long-time affiliate of The Volkov Law Group, Chris Focacci, CEO of Threat Digital, is a technology leader.  Chris has the ability to explain practical application of AI technology, due diligence and information systems.  He is a terrific resource and I urge all interested parties to reach out and speak with...

Episode 383 — FCPA Update: Declination and New Indictment

Is the DOJ really changing its playbook on FCPA enforcement, or is it business as usual under a new administration? In this episode, Michael digs into two headline developments that say a lot about where things are headed – the first FCPA declination under the Trump Administration and the first indictment. Both shed light on how DOJ is applying its policies in practice, what companies...

Episode 382 — AI Legal Compliance and Governance

Given the real and significant potential benefits of AI, companies have to be careful in the rush to implement AI technology.  Starting with a clear use case, companies have to weigh the potential benefits of AI technology and identify the legal and compliance risks.  An AI compliance program is a critical element of a corporate governance structure.  Building on this specific policy, companies need to...

AI Governance Best Practices (Part II of II)

The new world of AI presents significant benefits and risks that need to be addressed in an overall governance framework.  Luckily, the principles to apply here will surprise no one — governance, compliance, legal and risk professionals will quickly adapt well-known principles to the new frontier of AI. Starting at the Board level, AI oversight responsibility should be assigned a dedicated board committee, such as...