What is a common method used in the integration stage of money laundering?

The integration stage of money laundering involves reintegrating illicitly obtained funds into the legitimate economy in a way that makes the money appear to be of legal origin. Investing in real estate or art is a common method during this stage because these transactions can obscure the true source of the funds. Real estate purchases can involve large sums and extensive paperwork, which can complicate the tracking of financial origins. Similarly, art transactions provide a means for laundering money due to the subjective nature of art valuation and the often high prices associated with buying and selling artwork.

While direct cash deposits, immediate large bank transfers, and gambling in casinos are methods associated with other stages of money laundering, they typically do not function as effectively as investment in real estate or art during the integration phase, where legitimizing the funds is key. Investments bring the added benefit of potential appreciation, further distancing the criminal origin of the funds from their current form.