SmartSearch to Acquire Cardiff-Based Credas Technologies, Boosting UK Digital Compliance Leadership

SmartSearch has agreed to acquire Credas Technologies Ltd, a Cardiff-based identity verification firm, from Dye and Durham. The transaction—subject to regulatory approval—marks a strategic step to strengthen both organisations’ positions in the UK KYC and AML compliance sector.

Credas is headquartered in Cardiff, with its registered office at The Maltings, East Tyndall Street, Cardiff Bay, CF24 5EA. (credas.com)

By integrating Credas’ respected brand and specialist technology, SmartSearch will expand its product suite and extend its reach across regulated industries. The combined expertise is expected to drive further innovation, enhance customer experience, and support growth in a market under rising regulatory scrutiny.

Credas currently supports over 1,000 clients—mainly in the legal and property sectors—streamlining client onboarding and identity verification processes. Meanwhile, SmartSearch serves more than 7,500 clients nationwide and has maintained growth of around 31% year‑on‑year since 2013.

Phil Cotter, CEO of SmartSearch, commented:
“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.”

Tim Barnett, CEO of Credas and member of the Fintech Wales Advisory Panel, 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.”

Ben Shepherd, Head of Value Creation & Founding Partner at Triple Private Equity and Chairman of SmartSearch, said:
“The acquisition of Credas reflects SmartSearch’s continued upward trajectory in the market for digital compliance solutions. Today’s news confirms that our confidence was well founded.”

This acquisition not only strengthens both companies’ competitive edge, but also highlights the role of the Welsh fintech ecosystem in driving innovation in UK financial services.