SmartSearch has announced its agreement to acquire Credas Technologies, a major identity verification provider serving the legal and property sectors.
The acquisition, which remains subject to regulatory approval, marks a significant milestone in SmartSearch’s growth journey within the RegTech space.
The deal aims to enhance SmartSearch’s position as one of the UK’s foremost digital compliance providers by integrating Credas’ established brand, technology, and expertise. While the value of the deal has not been disclosed, the acquisition is designed to expand SmartSearch’s market reach and strengthen its ability to deliver innovative solutions for regulated firms facing intensifying scrutiny.
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Ilkley, SmartSearch provides an all-in-one digital compliance platform used by more than 7,500 clients across sectors including finance, legal, property, and accountancy. The company offers real-time AML checks, ongoing monitoring, and digital identity verification to help firms meet stringent UK and international compliance standards. Credas, based in Cardiff, specialises in identity verification and onboarding solutions for the legal and property industries, supporting over 1,000 clients to streamline customer journeys and reduce fraud risk.
The acquisition follows significant private equity investment in SmartSearch from Triple Private Equity in 2024, which has supported the company’s expansion and product development strategy. Since its launch, SmartSearch has reported 31% year-on-year growth, reflecting increasing demand for efficient, technology-driven compliance solutions.
SmartSearch CEO Phil Cotter said, “Regulated firms are under pressure to meet rising KYC and AML demands while delivering seamless onboarding. By joining forces with Credas, we combine our strengths to deliver unmatched innovation and service. Our clients will see immediate benefits as we continue to set the standard for digital compliance.”
Credas CEO Tim Barnett added, “With financial crime on the rise and fraud tactics evolving, digital identity verification is more critical than ever. Partnering with SmartSearch empowers us to help even more businesses protect themselves and focus on delivering quality service.”
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