Exiting the grey list won’t relax oversight – regulators pledge continued enforcement
The authorities say that supervision, prosecutions, and measurable outcomes must continue to avoid re-listing as the next mutual evaluation starts in 2026.
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Delisting restores SA’s credibility, but major repricing unlikely
Analysts say sustained capital inflows will depend on continued reform, enforcement, and the wider global backdrop.
Slow RCR submissions highlight gaps in anti-money laundering compliance
While submissions of the mandatory Risk and Compliance Return improved over the past year, 30% of institutions targeted by the FIC’s directives had not complied by March 2025
Financial intelligence reports drive R144m in crime recoveries
Requests for reports from the FIC rose by 17% in 2024/25, reflecting the FATF’s pressure on South Africa to strengthen its anti-money laundering efforts.
‘Appropriate’ and ‘adequate’ – two words that will shape SA’s next FATF review
New criteria require closer supervisory scrutiny of DNFBPs on market entry, ongoing oversight, and high-quality suspicious-transaction reporting.
FSPs brace for tougher scrutiny as risk-based AML compliance takes centre stage
As South Africa prepares for a tougher FATF evaluation, FSPs must master risk-based compliance – balancing security, cost, and strong partnerships to target real threats and protect legitimate customers.
FATF completes on-site assessment of SA’s anti-money laundering reforms
The Financial Action Task Force’s Plenary in October will decide whether to remove South Africa from the grey list.
Financial institutions should prepare for ‘more demanding’ AML/CFT review
The FATF’s mutual evaluation in April 2027 will drill down into how well AML/CFT measures work in practice rather than just ticking technical boxes.
SA nears grey list exit after complying with all 22 action items
South Africa now awaits an on-site visit by the FATF Africa Joint Group – paving the way for an anticipated exit from the grey list at the October plenary.
Expect the FSCA to call – heightened AML/CFT oversight ahead
What the Authority expects from financial services providers when it conducts Financial Intelligence Centre Act inspections.
Under pressure: navigating the financial regulatory heat in 2025
Financial institutions that proactively embed governance, technology, and culture to meet evolving regulatory standards will not only avoid penalties but also strengthen credibility, build resilience, and drive long term value.
FIC demands full RCR compliance to aid exit from the grey list
The Financial Intelligence Centre issues a stern reminder to designated non-financial entities – particularly legal practitioners and estate agents – to file their overdue risk and compliance returns.
FIC maps the money laundering, terror financing risks facing SA’s crypto sector
The report outlines the CASP sector’s vulnerabilities and provides guidance on how enhanced compliance and improved risk management can help to safeguard the industry.
AML/CFT | Strict enforcement will be the new normal
The need to get South Africa off the grey list has seen the FSCA beefing up its supervisory and licensing capacities.
SA’s path beyond the grey list: key challenges and opportunities ahead
While South Africa is on track to exit the grey list by October, National Treasury emphasises the importance of long-term improvements and continuous progress in financial regulation.
SA won’t get off the grey list in June – Treasury now aiming for October
South Africa is yet to demonstrate ‘sustained effectiveness’ in investigating and prosecuting serious money laundering and terrorist financing activities
Bill proposes wide-ranging changes to strengthen AML regime
The amendments to the Companies Act, FICA, and the Financial Sector Regulation Act are designed to close regulatory gaps and enhance enforcement.
