
Treasury holds largely firm on AML Bill after public submissions
Two limited FICA changes were indicated, while the FSCA explained why the financial-sector provisions would not be amended.

Two limited FICA changes were indicated, while the FSCA explained why the financial-sector provisions would not be amended.

Institutions will have to identify and verify owners, assess their honesty and integrity at least every two years, and report beneficial-owner information to regulators.

Its submission to Parliament highlights concerns about lifestyle audits, information sharing, beneficial ownership, and administrative fines.

Key judgments clarified the FSCA’s ability to investigate misconduct, resist procedural delays, and pursue cross-border enforcement.

Stakeholders have until 10 August to comment on proposed amendments aimed at strengthening South Africa’s financial crime framework.

Treasury says the country already has most of the rules it needs; the challenge now is proving that institutions are using them effectively.

Treasury adviser Ismail Momoniat warns that police corruption and unfinished financial-crime cases could weigh on SA’s FATF assessment.

The dismissal of a reconsideration application by CMM investors underscores that only direct legal rights – not indirect financial interests – confer standing under the FSRA.

The framework formalises complaint-handling procedures, introduces mechanisms such as conciliation and summary dismissal, and will be implemented in phases.

The legislation will strengthen reporting and governance obligations across the non-profit, corporate, and financial sectors.

The Bill largely clarifies and strengthens existing AML/CFT expectations rather than introducing a new regulatory philosophy.

The Bill proposes that arrangements yielding outcomes similar to traditional financial products be treated as financial services.

The Court set aside two notices to the Municipal Employees Pension Fund after finding the regulator had not met the statutory thresholds.

The Tribunal and the High Court delivered key decisions emphasising proportional enforcement and the proper use of transitional provisions.

The draft Rules for the Office of the Pension Funds Adjudicator formalise existing procedures and align the OPFA with COFI and the cross-scheme framework.

Section 14(1)(b) of the FAIS Act cannot be stretched to catch misconduct discovered after a representative’s tenure.

Early preparation for COFI will give firms a competitive edge and help to avoid the compliance scramble seen during FAIS implementation.