EU Strengthens Anti-Money Laundering Supervision – AMLA Signs Cooperation Agreement with European Supervisory Authorities

On 3 July 2025, the European Supervisory Authorities – the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) – signed a multilateral Memorandum of Understanding with the newly established EU Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Authority (AMLA).

The aim of the agreement is to establish a framework for effective cooperation and information exchange between institutions responsible for supervising the EU financial system in the area of financial crime prevention.

A coherent AML/CFT system – principles of cooperation set out in the Memorandum

The conclusion of the Memorandum marks a key milestone in building a coherent and effective European system for combating money laundering (AML) and terrorist financing (CFT). The Memorandum outlines the practical principles of cooperation between AMLA and the three key EU supervisory bodies.

This cooperation will include regular information exchange, joint analytical work, mutual participation in the decision-making bodies (as observers), and the development of common supervisory standards. A significant component of the Memorandum is the commitment to reciprocal sharing of data relevant to AML/CFT risks, including both cross-border institutions and systemic risks.

New rules on reporting and access to data

Under the terms of the agreement, the European Supervisory Authorities will provide AMLA with information that is significant from an AML/CFT risk perspective, in particular regarding entities under their supervision, including cases of serious deficiencies in internal governance or compliance functions.

In turn, AMLA will share data and analysis with the authorities that may impact the stability or integrity of the financial market, thus supporting a more harmonised supervisory approach across the EU. The cooperation will also include the possibility for either party to submit specific, reasoned requests for access to information, with an obligation to respond or justify any refusal.

What does the agreement change in practice?

As highlighted in the official press release, the signing of the Memorandum reflects a strong commitment to enhanced institutional cooperation within the EU’s AML framework.

From the perspective of legal practitioners and compliance departments, the agreement signals the need to prepare for a more integrated and consistent AML supervisory landscape in the EU. In the coming years, we can expect increased cross-border cooperation, greater alignment of supervisory practices, and a stronger focus on information sharing between authorities.

Obliged entities, including banks, investment firms, insurers, and fintechs, should proactively align their internal procedures with the requirements arising from the unified European approach.

The new Memorandum confirms that the future of AML supervision in the EU will be grounded in collaboration, transparency, and consistent enforcement of compliance standards.

Do you need support with your new AML obligations?

Contact our team to discuss the impact of the AMLA agreement on your organization and prepare internal procedures that comply with European supervisory standards.