Source of Wealth vs. Source of Funds: What’s the Difference?

When investing, financial institutions require two key documents: Source of Wealth (SOW) and Source of Funds (SOF). While these terms sound alike, they have distinct meanings and play crucial roles in the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. Understanding the difference can streamline your investment journey and ensure compliance.

What is Source of Wealth (SOW)?

Source of Wealth refers to the origin of an investor’s accumulated wealth over time. It provides insights into how an individual or entity has built their financial resources. Common sources include:

  • Salary and employment income
  • Business ownership and profits
  • Inheritance or family wealth
  • Investments and asset appreciation
  • Sale of property or businesses

Providing Source of Wealth documentation helps financial institutions verify that your wealth has been accumulated through legitimate means.

What is Source of Funds (SOF)?

Source of Funds refers to the specific origin of the money used for a particular investment transaction. It focuses on the immediate source of the funds being invested. Examples include:

  • Recent salary payments
  • Proceeds from the sale of an asset
  • Dividends from investments
  • Loan disbursements
  • Gifts or bank transfers

Ensuring a legitimate Source of Funds is essential for regulatory compliance and protecting financial integrity.

Why Are Source of Wealth and Source of Funds Required?

Global Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) regulations mandate SOW and SOF documentation to prevent financial crimes. These requirements protect investors and financial institutions by ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.

Simplifying the KYC Process with Opportunik

At Opportunik, we know that the KYC process can be time-consuming. Our Investor Relations team is available to assist you in gathering and submitting the necessary documents, making the process efficient and hassle-free.

Start Your Investment Journey with Opportunik

With Opportunik, investing is seamless and secure. Our expert team ensures you meet KYC compliance without unnecessary stress.