SmartSearch and Iress have announced a new integration aimed at transforming compliance for financial advisers.
The partnership is designed to address one of the most persistent issues facing advice firms: the inefficiencies and risks posed by outdated compliance processes. By embedding SmartSearch’s automated verification capabilities directly into Iress’ Xplan software, the collaboration aims to simplify workflows, speed up onboarding and strengthen client relationships.
SmartSearch specialises in electronic identity verification and AML compliance tools, delivering real-time checks with a reported industry-leading pass rate of up to 97%. The platform provides access to a multi-bureau dataset, which reduces the likelihood of missing crucial intelligence by avoiding reliance on single-source solutions.
Iress is recognised for its financial services technology solutions, particularly its flagship Xplan software, which is widely used by advisers across the UK to manage financial advice and client relationships. The platform now benefits from a direct integration with SmartSearch’s AML and KYC technology, allowing advisers to conduct checks without leaving their existing system.
Through the integration, advisers will be able to perform AML and compliance checks seamlessly within Xplan. SmartSearch’s technology enables Know Your Customer (KYC) checks in as little as two seconds, giving firms the ability to verify client information quickly while maintaining regulatory standards. This is expected to enhance data accuracy, reduce risk and remove the friction that often characterises compliance tasks.
Kerry Cleary, partnership director at SmartSearch, said, “Integrating with Iress is an exciting opportunity to extend the reach of our automated AML and KYC solutions within one of the most widely used financial advice platforms in the UK. We are giving advisers the ability to complete compliance checks in seconds, without leaving the Iress system they already rely on. This integration is about simplifying compliance and enabling advisers to focus on what really matters – building stronger client relationships.”
Jamie Grant, head of product at Iress, said, “By integrating SmartSearch directly into Xplan, we’re bringing advisers a best-in-class AML solution within the platform they trust to run their advice business. It’s making compliance smoother, more precise and less time-consuming.”
The move underlines both companies’ shared commitment to strengthening regulatory confidence, operational efficiency and innovation within the financial advice sector.
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