How RIAs Are Reacting To – And Preparing For – New AML Rule

Charles Paikert

15 July 2025

With a combination of trepidation and confidence, RIAs are gearing up to comply (see previous article) with the host of sweeping new requirements for the Treasury Department’s new Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rule set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Many firms took a wait-and-see approach to the new AML rule for the first half of the year, expressing skepticism about whether the rule would actually take effect on time, according to Patrick Hunt, CEO of compliance software provider .

But “the tenor changed” after the July 4 holiday, and wealth managers are now stepping up preparations to comply with anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) requirements by the new year, Hunt said.

The compliance group at in Coral Gables. “The sources of challenges that affect AML regulations are also changing.

We are seeing more sophisticated activity and money movements. The proliferation of cybercurrency and exchanges has put pressure on how regulators monitor AML activity.”

“Positive for the industry”
Despite the work involved, RIAs are generally sanguine about the new AML rule.

“While the rule introduces new requirements, it aligns with our broader commitment to maintaining high standards of integrity,” said Robbins. Despite concerns about the increased complexities and costs the rule brings, the protection it brings investors makes it a “positive for the industry,” Hughes added.

Fleissig points out that “as fiduciaries, it is imperative as advisors that we play our part in combating financial crimes including money laundering and terrorist financing.”

What’s more, having a dynamic understanding of anti-money laundering regulations “helps to provide for better advice,” Sosa said. “International clients come to US advisors seeking their guidance and part of this guidance is to share what and how our regulations may affect their money movements. It’s key to understanding the relationship with each client.”

For an AML compliance cheat sheet, see here.