The global anti-money laundering and know-your-customer landscape saw significant regulatory change in 2025, with major updates across FATF guidance, regional implementation, and beneficial ownership transparency requirements.
FATF Guidance Updates
The Financial Action Task Force published updated guidance on virtual assets and digital identity verification, creating both new compliance obligations and new tools for meeting them. The 2025 guidance significantly expanded the scope of virtual asset service providers subject to AML/CFT requirements.
Singapore's Strengthened Framework
MAS introduced enhanced beneficial ownership disclosure requirements for Variable Capital Companies and strengthened its Politically Exposed Persons framework, requiring enhanced due diligence for a broader category of PEP-connected clients.
UAE's FATF Journey
The UAE's successful removal from the FATF grey list in 2024 has been followed by continued regulatory maturation. The Financial Intelligence Unit has expanded its reporting requirements and the real estate sector faces enhanced scrutiny.
Practical Implications for Swiss Ace Clients
Cross-border investors and business operators need to review their KYC/AML programs against the 2025 regulatory updates. Key areas requiring attention include beneficial ownership mapping, PEP screening protocols, and digital identity verification approaches.
Looking to 2026
We expect continued tightening of beneficial ownership transparency requirements globally, with particular focus on real estate, private equity and high-value professional services. Clients should ensure their compliance programs are documented, tested and up to date.
Swiss Ace provides disciplined investment advisory and business solutions across global markets.