Kidnap-for-ransom and extortion incidents are rising, becoming more complex, opportunistic and global. 

In this episode of Ground Truth, we draw on Control Risks’ latest report, Kidnap and Extortion in 2026, pairing expert analysis with frontline response experience to unpack what’s driving trends and how organisations can protect their people and operations.

Guests:

Six months on from RiskMap 2026, Control Risks experts assess how the global risk landscape is actually unfolding. From geopolitical shocks and shifting US policy to accelerating AI risk and rising societal pressure, this episode cuts through the noise to identify what matters now and what business leaders should prepare for next.

2026 RiskMap top risks: New rules-no rules world | Rise of activated societies | Growing web of organised crime | The AI compute test | The normalisation trap

Guests: 

Read the full RiskMap 2026 report.

How do you know when you have enough evidence to act? In investigations, determining the sufficiency of evidence gathered is often the thorniest part of the job.

Join host Sushmit Bhattacharya as he speaks with Control Risks' Brian Mich on the real-world challenge of evaluating evidence, especially when it is circumstantial.

The US’ recent designation of certain Latin American criminal groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) means a far broader range of activities can now implicate companies and investors doing business in areas where these groups operate. How has this changed the risk landscape for companies in the region?

Join host Martina Rozumberkova as she speaks with experts Ana Cortes and Ana María Ramirez about how this new designation has intensified risk for companies with operations or supply chains in Latin America.

As diplomatic tensions between the US and India make headlines, the extensive economic ties between the two nations face a new test. With India standing as one of the world's largest consumer markets, these tensions raise critical questions about its future direction and the risks for its businesses.

Join host Sushmit Bhattacharya as he speaks with experts Ryan Rohlfsen, Kunal Gupta, and Brian Mich to unpack these issues. They explore whether Indian companies should prepare for heightened regulatory scrutiny from US regulators amid the ongoing friction.

As multinational development banks (MDBs) intensify their enforcement efforts, companies under scrutiny face a range of potential consequences from public sanctions and limits on future business to lasting reputational harm. Navigating this complex and high-impact process requires expert guidance.

Join host Jon Preston as he speaks with experts Sârra-Tilila Bounfour and Joyce Nkini-Iwisi to unpack what happens when MDBs sanction companies under review.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology-enabled tools have transformed how compliance leaders navigate regulatory obligations, far beyond the capacity of legacy systems. When used well, AI capabilities enable early risk detection, inspiring confident decision-making. But without a clear strategy, AI use invites incredible risks into the room. 

Join Control Risks' Principal, John Kim in conversation with Matt Reeder, Head of Legal at Bluesky Social, on effectively implementing and improving AI-driven compliance programmes, with a focus on three essential pillars: people, priorities and processes.

Multilateral development banks (MDBs) play a crucial role in global development, but when misconduct arises in MDB-financed projects, the consequences can be serious. From fraud and corruption to workplace misconduct, these institutions conduct rigorous investigations that can lead to public sanctions and long-term reputational damage. For companies operating in high-risk environments, understanding the MDB investigative process is essential.

Join host Jon Preston in conversation with experts Sârra-Tilila Bounfour and Joyce Nkini-Iwisi as they unpack the lifecycle of MDB external investigations. They explore how cases are triggered, what companies can expect during field missions, and the importance of cooperation and compliance. With insights from both the investigative and advisory sides, this episode offers practical guidance for navigating MDB scrutiny and strengthening internal controls.

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Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are high-stakes ventures, and in today’s volatile geopolitical and regulatory environment, the risks of fraud, corruption and financial crime are more pressing than ever. As dealmakers navigate complex cross-border transactions, the need for robust compliance frameworks and proactive due diligence has never been greater.

Join host Martin Tornberg in conversation with experts Hannah Harrison and Oleg Kozlov as they examine the evolving landscape of M&A fraud risk. They discuss the implications of the UK’s new failure to prevent fraud offence, the challenges of post-deal integration, and how companies can protect themselves from liability through enhanced due diligence and compliance planning.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed eDiscovery, from early structured analytics and keyword filtering to the sophisticated use of large language models. As legal teams face growing data volumes and tighter deadlines, AI offers powerful tools for early case assessment, multilingual document review and even bespoke investigative workflows. Professionals in eDiscovery, whose work is routinely submitted to regulators and courts, must be careful when using AI in their practice.

Join host Sushmit Bhattacharya in conversation with experts Maggie Burtoft and Stuart Hall as they explore the evolution of AI in eDiscovery. They discuss the shift from traditional technology-assisted review (TAR) to generative AI, the benefits of custom-built solutions and how to address client concerns around cost, accuracy and hallucinations.

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