South Africa has achieved a major milestone in strengthening its financial system and global standing. In October 2025, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) announced that South Africa has been officially removed from its grey list, marking the country’s successful completion of extensive reforms to enhance the integrity of its financial framework.
South Africa was first placed on the FATF grey list in 2023, a move that signified the country was under increased monitoring due to strategic deficiencies in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) systems. Since then, the nation has undertaken comprehensive reforms across government departments, regulatory bodies, and the financial sector to strengthen compliance and transparency.
The FATF’s decision to delist South Africa recognises the significant progress made in addressing the identified shortcomings and implementing robust mechanisms to prevent financial crimes. This achievement reflects a co-ordinated national effort—from policymakers and regulators to banks and other financial institutions—demonstrating South Africa’s commitment to maintaining high standards of financial integrity.
The removal from the grey list is more than a regulatory success; it’s a boost for the broader economy. The announcement is expected to increase investor confidence, improve access to international financial markets, and enhance South Africa’s reputation as a trusted and compliant jurisdiction for global business.
As South Africa moves forward, continued vigilance and collaboration will be key to sustaining these gains and ensuring that the country remains a leader in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.
Boston Multi Family Office is looking forward assisting our professional South African network with the cross border private wealth needs. If you wish to discuss ways we can help, please do get in contact with Roelf Odendaal or Marion de Carte, both South Africans working at Boston Multi Family Office in the Isle of Man who will be able to assist enquiries@bostonmfo.com