Digest December 8th

Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Delays Major AML Rule for Advisers

FinCEN announced it will postpone the effective date of the new Anti‑Money Laundering/CFT requirements for registered investment advisers from January 1 2026 to January 1 2028. The delay gives firms additional time to tailor compliance processes and reflects recognition of the operational burden across diverse advisory business models. U.S. Department of the Treasury

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Signals Heightened Examination Focus on Adviser Compliance Programs

The SEC’s 2025 examination priorities list emphasizes core areas such as fiduciary duty, conflicts of interest, alternative revenue streams, and valuation issues. The takeaway: even with regulatory delays in some areas, scrutiny remains high. AdvisorLaw

Client Engagement Gap Deepens as Fewer Americans Use Financial Advisors

Recent industry commentary shows that only 41% of U.S. adults currently work with a financial advisor—falling to significantly lower levels among younger generations. This signals both a challenge and opportunity for advisory firms. fa-mag.com