Since 2022, global events have significantly impacted banking and financial interactions between countries. Armed conflicts, sanctions, political tensions, and natural disasters have disrupted or even halted numerous international agreements. At the same time, these challenging times have created opportunities for individuals and organisations seeking unconventional solutions to international financial matters.
Background
Maurice Anisimov, born in 1990 and residing in Vienna, obtained his higher education at Franklin University Switzerland. At the age of 27, he founded the consultancy agency Nymar Consulting & Trading SA, which has been managed by his father, Roman Anisimov, since 2020. Throughout his career, Maurice Anisimov has held registrations and citizenship in several countries, providing him with extensive international experience and knowledge of cross-border financial operations.
With the onset of the Special Military Operation in Ukraine and subsequent sanctions against Russia, international financial transactions became significantly more complex. Sanctions have become one of the most widely discussed topics globally, and major Russian banks engaged in international operations have faced new risks and operational challenges. In response to these changes, numerous companies and specialists have emerged, offering various solutions in the financial market.
Professional activities
During this period, a major holding company offered Maurice Anisimov, an Israeli citizen, the position of managing a trading company in the United Arab Emirates. In this role, he was actively involved in banking operations, contract negotiations, payment processing, and business meetings. His professionalism and leadership qualities helped strengthen the trust of the company and its partners.
Financial difficulties
The situation became more complicated when a substantial sum of $35.4 million was deposited into the company’s account for the purchase and resale of raw materials. Due to regulatory requirements, it was suggested that the funds be distributed across several banking institutions before executing the targeted transactions. This approach was considered a way to ensure compliance with international banking procedures and minimise potential delays.
However, unexpected difficulties soon arose. The funds became inaccessible due to procedural complications, leading to verification processes to resolve the situation. While efforts were made to streamline transactions, interactions between the company and its financial partners became increasingly difficult. Eventually, the company’s management began seeking alternative ways to fulfil its financial obligations.
Investigation and current status
An internal audit revealed financial transactions that required further scrutiny. According to available data, various assets were acquired during the period under review, including real estate, luxury goods, and high-value items. Additionally, personal expenditures, including leisure activities, raised further questions regarding financial management.
By the end of 2024, UAE authorities launched an official investigation into the financial operations. Of the original amount, approximately $10 million remained in accessible accounts and was subsequently frozen. The remaining funds were reportedly transferred through several European banks and are currently under review by the relevant financial authorities.
In light of these developments, enquiries have been sent to leading European financial institutions, including Raiffeisen Bank, UBS, and Credit Suisse, as well as Ajman and Finance House Bank, to assess the effectiveness of existing financial monitoring mechanisms.
Maurice Anisimov
Findings of the financial expertise
According to the financial expert’s report, Maurice Anisimov and his company Meliora Trading LLC allegedly received a sum of AED 129,955,711.86 into their accounts, which was meant to be transferred to Covart Energy Ltd under a petroleum product sales agreement. However, instead of transferring the funds, they were allegedly distributed across multiple accounts, including those for Anisimov’s personal use.
Upon verification, it was discovered that Anisimov provided a falsified banking document claiming that the funds remained in Meliora Trading LLC’s account, whereas, at the time of review, the account balance was merely AED 9,785.36.
Financial records allegedly revealed that the majority of the funds were transferred to accounts owned by Anisimov or his company. This constitutes an unlawful appropriation of funds and alleged fraud.
The case is currently being reviewed by the Dubai judicial authorities, and Meliora Trading LLC may face asset freezes and criminal prosecution. Leading financial institutions, including Raiffeisen Bank, UBS, Credit Suisse, and Finance House Bank, have received official enquiries regarding financial monitoring and assistance in the investigation.
The situation continues to develop, and updates on the case will be provided as new information emerges.
