ECB warns of crypto firms choosing EU countries with lighter AML controls

The European Central Bank's Supervisory Board Chair has cautioned that some cryptocurrency companies might opt for EU nations with less stringent anti-money laundering rules. Claudia Buch emphasized the need for collaboration with the EU's new AML Authority to address these concerns.

On February 13, 2026, the Chair of the European Central Bank (ECB) Supervisory Board, Claudia Buch, highlighted potential risks in the cryptocurrency sector. According to her statement, some crypto companies may choose to operate in EU countries featuring 'lighter' AML controls.

Buch stressed the importance of the ECB working alongside AMLA, the EU’s newly established Anti-Money Laundering Authority, to tackle these issues effectively. This warning comes amid ongoing efforts to harmonize regulatory standards across the European Union to prevent exploitation of varying national frameworks.

The remarks underscore broader supervisory challenges in the rapidly evolving financial technology landscape, particularly in ensuring robust compliance measures for digital assets.

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