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.

Makala yanayohusiana

U.S. Treasury report illustration showing holographic tech pillars for crypto compliance: AI monitoring, digital ID, blockchain analytics, and data APIs, with privacy mixer endorsement.
Picha iliyoundwa na AI

U.S. Treasury report proposes AI, digital ID pillars for crypto compliance; endorses lawful mixer privacy

Imeripotiwa na AI Picha iliyoundwa na AI

The U.S. Treasury Department submitted a report to Congress on March 9, 2026—commissioned under the GENIUS Act—outlining four technological pillars to enhance transparency in cryptocurrency transactions: artificial intelligence for monitoring, digital identity for onboarding, blockchain analytics for tracing, and interoperable data-sharing APIs. It describes digital assets as key to U.S. innovation leadership while acknowledging lawful users' need for privacy tools like mixers on public blockchains, amid risks from illicit exploitation.

The United Arab Emirates has strengthened its anti-money laundering measures in the real estate, precious metals, and cryptocurrency sectors in preparation for an upcoming Financial Action Task Force inspection. Authorities have imposed fines totaling AED 130 million on designated non-financial businesses and professions since 2022. New customer due diligence requirements aim to prevent compliance issues in related services.

Imeripotiwa na AI

South Korea's financial regulator plans to revise laws and boost international cooperation to combat rising money laundering activities. The Financial Services Commission aims to empower the anti-money laundering agency to freeze suspicious accounts and impose curbs on international criminal rings. It will also strengthen regulations on virtual assets.

A new report from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis reveals that Chinese-language money laundering networks processed $16.1 billion in illicit cryptocurrency funds last year, accounting for about 20% of all known crypto laundering activity. These Telegram-based operations have grown dramatically since 2020, outpacing other laundering channels by thousands of times. The findings highlight the networks' role in facilitating global crime while evading enforcement efforts.

Imeripotiwa na AI

A consortium of major European banks called Qivalis is holding advanced discussions with crypto exchanges and liquidity providers ahead of launching a euro-pegged stablecoin in the second half of 2026. The initiative aims to create a regulated alternative to U.S. dollar stablecoins for blockchain-based payments within the EU. Backed by bank deposits and sovereign bonds, the token seeks to enhance the bloc's autonomy in digital finance.

Anti-Money Laundering Council executive director Matthew David has requested a transfer within the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Arnold Kabanlit was designated as acting director to ensure leadership continuity. The move comes amid a major probe into corruption in flood control projects.

Imeripotiwa na AI

Citi analysts report growing momentum for the CLARITY Act, a key U.S. crypto market structure bill, but highlight risks of delays beyond 2026 due to disputes over decentralized finance definitions and stablecoin rewards. The Senate Agriculture Committee has advanced its version, while the Banking Committee grapples with contentious issues. A White House meeting on February 2 aims to address stablecoin concerns.

Tovuti hii inatumia vidakuzi

Tunatumia vidakuzi kwa uchambuzi ili kuboresha tovuti yetu. Soma sera ya faragha yetu kwa maelezo zaidi.
Kataa