In a major leap for compliance automation, SmartSearch—a UK leader in digital anti-money laundering (AML) and KYC tools—has officially integrated with Iress’ Xplan platform to enable financial advisers to carry out compliance checks directly within their existing workflows.
Financial advice firms often struggle with fragmented systems: advisers bounce between compliance tools, data sources, and client software. This slows down onboarding and raises the risk of mistakes or overlooked red flags. The SmartSearch–Iress integration tackles that head on by embedding automated AML and identity verification into the heart of the adviser’s software suite.
Advisers can now conduct AML and KYC checks directly in Xplan without leaving the platform. SmartSearch’s verification engines, powered by multi-bureau data, deliver rapid and highly accurate results—boasting up to a 97% pass rate with checks completed in as little as two seconds. By pooling multiple data sources, the system reduces the risk of compliance gaps that often occur with single-bureau checks.
The benefits extend beyond speed and accuracy. Advisers save time by avoiding system switching, which streamlines operations and enhances client onboarding. This partnership ensures compliance becomes a seamless part of everyday advisory work rather than a burdensome separate process.
Kerry Cleary, Partnership Director at SmartSearch, emphasized the breakthrough: “Integrating with Iress is an exciting opportunity. Advisers can complete compliance checks in seconds without leaving the Iress system they already rely on.” Jamie Grant, Head of Product at Iress, added: “By embedding SmartSearch into Xplan, we’re delivering a best-in-class AML solution in the platform advisers already trust. Compliance becomes smoother, more precise and less time-intensive.”
The collaboration highlights a broader industry shift: compliance is no longer treated as a bolt-on but as a core element of fintech platforms. Firms adopting integrated compliance can expect faster onboarding, fewer manual errors, greater regulatory confidence, and improved client experiences.
For Xplan users, the integration with SmartSearch is available now, setting a new standard in compliance technology that others in the financial advisory sector are likely to follow.
