European Banking Authority Identifies Key Advances In AML/CFT Supervision

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 13, 2025

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released a comprehensive report evaluating initiatives taken by competent authorities across the EU and EEA to mitigate money laundering and terrorist financing risks. Drawing on six years of in-depth reviews, the report not only highlights significant improvement in supervisory practices but also outlines a strategic framework for ongoing reform.

Enhanced Risk-Based Frameworks For Supervisory Excellence

Over the past six years, regulators have made notable strides in adopting risk-based approaches to AML/CFT supervision. With dedicated strategies, tailored supervisory plans, and robust manuals now in place, the sector has seen greater consistency and effectiveness. Although certain challenges have temporarily impeded reform efforts, authorities have consistently optimized the use of available supervisory tools to safeguard the integrity of financial institutions.

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Strengthened Coordination And International Cooperation

The report further details substantial enhancements in coordination between national regulators and key stakeholders, including financial intelligence units and tax authorities. Enhanced communication channels with prudential supervisors in other EU jurisdictions and third countries underscore the commitment to a harmonized approach. These improvements are critical, particularly as the regulatory landscape evolves and international collaboration becomes ever more essential in combating financial crime.

A Strategic Roadmap For The New Euro Anti-Money Laundering Authority

As the EU transitions oversight responsibilities to the new Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), the findings of the EBA report provide an up-to-date, strategic overview of AML/CFT supervision. By aligning national practices with EBA standards, the groundwork is laid for enhanced indirect supervision under AMLA. While some nations continue to work on fully implementing EBA recommendations, the progress made thus far serves as a promising indicator of the future regulatory landscape.

In sum, the EBA’s extensive review underscores the critical evolution of AML/CFT supervisory practices in the EU. This report not only marks the successful conclusion of a multiannual review project but also sets a forward-looking agenda for continued enhancement in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing.

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Strained Household Finances: Eurostat Data Reveals Persistent Payment Delays Across Europe and in Cyprus

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 22, 2025

Improved Financial Resilience Amid Ongoing Strains

Over the past decade, Cypriot households have significantly increased their ability to manage debts—not only bank loans but also rent and utility bills. However, recent Eurostat data indicates that Cyprus continues to lag behind the European average when it comes to covering financial obligations on time.

Household Coping Strategies and the Limits of Payment Flexibility

While many families are managing their fixed expenses with relative ease, one in three Cypriots struggles to cover unexpected costs. This delicate balancing act highlights how routine payments such as mortgage installments, rent, and utility bills are met, but precariously so, with little room for unplanned financial shocks.

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Breaking Down Payment Delays Across the European Union

Eurostat reports that nearly 9.2% of the EU population experienced delays with their housing loans, rent, utility bills, or installment payments in 2024. The situation is more acute among vulnerable groups: 17.2% of individuals in single-parent households with dependent children and 16.6% in households with two adults managing three or more dependents faced payment delays. In every EU nation, single-parent households exhibited higher delay rates compared to the overall population.

Cyprus in the Crosshairs: High Rates of Financial Delays

Although Cyprus recorded a notable 19.1 percentage point improvement from 2015 to 2024 in delays related to mortgages, rent, and utility bills, the island nation still ranks among the top five countries with the highest delay rates. As of 2024, 12.5% of the Cypriot population had outstanding housing loans or rent and overdue utility bills. In contrast, Greece tops the list with 42.8%, followed by Bulgaria (18.7%), Romania (15.3%), Spain (14.2%), and other EU members. Notably, 19 out of 27 EU countries reported delay rates below 10%, with Czech Republic (3.4%) and Netherlands (3.9%) leading the pack.

Selective Improvements and Emerging Concerns

Between 2015 and 2024, the overall EU population saw a 2.6 percentage point decline in payment delays. Despite this, certain countries experienced increases: Luxembourg (+3.3 percentage points), Spain (+2.5 percentage points), and Germany (+2.0 percentage points) saw a rise in payment delays, reflecting underlying economic pressures that continue to challenge financial stability.

Economic Insecurity and the Unprepared for Emergencies

Another critical indicator explored by Eurostat is the prevalence of economic insecurity—the proportion of the population unable to handle unexpected financial expenses. In 2024, 30% of the EU population reported being unable to cover unforeseen costs, a modest improvement of 1.2 percentage points from 2023 and a significant 7.4 percentage point drop compared to a decade ago. In Cyprus, while 34.8% still report difficulty handling emergencies, this marks a drastic improvement from 2015, when the figure stood at 60.5%.

A Broader EU Perspective

Importantly, no EU country in 2024 had more than half of its population facing economic insecurity—a notable improvement from 2015, when over 50% of the population in nine countries reported such challenges. These figures underscore both progress and persistent vulnerabilities within European households, urging policymakers to consider targeted measures for enhancing financial resilience.

For further insights and detailed analysis, refer to the original reports on Philenews and Housing Loans.

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