-
Fiduciary Duties and Conflict of Interest - Fiduciary duties of the bank as trustee and executor are both at the core of the banks responsibilities to its clients as well as a primary risk to the bank.
-
Regulatory Requirements and Compliance - Compliance is the key risk in all trust departments. Lack of compliance may lead to litigation, fines and penalties.
-
Risk Assessment and Planning the Audit - Proper planning ensures the auditor’s goals and objectives are met.
-
Trust Operations and Internal Controls - An effective system of controls is imperative to properly perform the duties of the trust department.
-
Fiduciary Investments - Appropriate investment management is central to the fiduciary duties of the trustee.
-
Physical Security and Controls over Trust Assets - Key internal controls over assets held at other locations, safekeeping arrangements and audit controls.
-
Fraud Detection - Understand responsibilities in identifying and detecting fraud.
-
Administrative Audits - This audit is key to understanding account management. Look at potential “red flags” that may create a problem.