It is very difficult to place a figure on the value of assets that are either outstanding or have been misappropriated, but it will certainly run to many US$ trillions. Assets can come in many different forms, from property and cash, through to fine art and jewellery, and the methods by which they are misappropriated are also wide, including straightforward theft, fraud and deception.
For many companies credit loss is a fact of life as they face the continual battle around arrears and non-payment of debts. In addition, the number of Limited companies entering 'voluntary liquidation' has increased significantly over the last few years. For some unscrupulous individuals, this route provides an easy escape route, leaving significant unpaid debt.
There is also an increasing trend for criminals to set up Limited companies, secure high-value assets from suppliers, then deliberately go in to 'voluntary liquidation' and disappear with the assets. For most companies, the successful tracing and recovery of assets can be the difference between surviving and going under.
|