The Expert Podcast | Asset Tracing vs Asset Searching: What's the Real Difference?

Asset Tracing vs Asset Searching: What's the Real Difference?

June 9, 2025 / 03:10/E1987 Download MP3

🔍 Episode Description / Show Notes:

We recently attended a presentation by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners titled "Asset Tracing: Finding the Truth Behind the Numbers."
This refresher course inspired us to explore a common question:
What is the difference between asset tracing and asset searching?
At first glance, the two may seem similar—but they are significantly different in scope and purpose.

💡 Key Points Covered in This Episode:

Asset Search:
- A snapshot in time
- Shows current assets held by an individual or entity
- Often used in cases involving debtors, lawsuits, or alleged fraud
- Helps identify what assets exist at the moment of the search
Asset Tracing:
- Goes back in time to track the history and movement of assets
- Useful for identifying asset transfers, conversions, or concealment
- Helps uncover if someone once had millions in assets and now shows significantly less
- Reveals changes in asset class (e.g., cash to crypto, corporate assets to personal property)
Why It Matters:
- Asset tracing can reveal hidden or transferred wealth
- Essential in fraud investigations, lawsuits, and judgment recovery
- May identify third parties who now hold the assets
- Tracing can result in stronger recovery actions and better legal outcomes
Example Scenarios:
- Someone had $300,000 in 2018 and now appears broke—where did the money go?
- Assets were used to purchase real estate, stocks, or cryptocurrency
- Tracing reveals whether assets increased in value or were shielded under other names
Conclusion:
- An asset search gives you a static view
- Asset tracing provides a dynamic, historical trail
- Tracing offers deeper insight and better tools for recovery

📞 For More Information:
Visit activeintel.com to learn more about asset tracing, asset searches, and investigative tools for financial recovery.