Four Greek Australian men from Victoria – Dimitrios (James) Podaridis, Peter Delis, Bassilios (Bill) Floropoulos, and Harry Tsalikidis – have been charged with money laundering in connection with an investment scam that allegedly targeted Australian investors.
According to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), between January and July 2021 the men allegedly dealt with funds obtained through a sophisticated fraudulent bond scheme, and were reckless as to whether those funds were the proceeds of crime.
ASIC does not allege they directly operated the scam.
The alleged scheme used fake investment comparison websites and Facebook advertisements to lure victims, who were then contacted by phone or email and sent high-quality falsified prospectuses and documents imitating those of legitimate financial providers. The fake offerings promised fixed returns of 4.5–9.5 per cent per annum over one to ten years.
ASIC alleges victim funds were deposited into Australian bank accounts operated or controlled by Mr Podaridis, Mr Floropoulos, or Mr Delis, before being transferred offshore or converted into cryptocurrency. Mr Tsalikidis is accused of engaging in similar conduct and assisting the others.
The case, investigated by ASIC following complaints from consumers and financial institutions, is being prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions. It is listed for committal mention on 30 October 2025.
Source: ASIC