The new European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) officially commenced operations on 1 July 2025, marking a significant step in strengthening the EU’s fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. Headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, AMLA was created under the EU Anti-Money Laundering Package, adopted in 2021 and in force since 9 July 2024.
AMLA’s core mission is to improve the efficiency and coordination of anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) efforts across the European Union. It will work to harmonise the application of AML regulations among Member States, enhance the effectiveness of national supervisory authorities, and foster better cooperation between the EU’s Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs). Close collaboration is planned with the European Central Bank and the EU’s key financial supervisory bodies – the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA).
In addition to its supervisory and coordination role, AMLA is developing a European AML/CFT expert network. On the recommendation of Germany’s Federal Ministry of Finance, two prominent legal professionals have been appointed: attorney Laura Funke, Deputy Managing Director of the Munich Bar Association and a permanent member of its Working Group on Money Laundering Supervision, and attorney Dr. Emanuel HF Ballo, board member of the Frankfurt Bar Association. Both will contribute to shaping policy and operational strategies in the European fight against financial crime.
AMLA’s establishment represents a major advancement in the EU’s ability to deliver consistent, robust, and cross-border measures against illicit financial activities.