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European Banking Authority Identifies Key Advances In AML/CFT Supervision

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.

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.

Cyprus Expected Working Life Reaches 39.5 Years, Above EU Average

People in Cyprus are expected to spend 39.5 years in the workforce, around two years longer than the European Union average of 37.5 years, according to the latest Eurostat data for 2025.

The figure places Cyprus among the EU countries with the longest expected working lives.

Cyprus Ranks Above EU Average

Only a handful of member states recorded higher figures than Cyprus. The Netherlands topped the ranking at 44 years, followed by Sweden at 43.4 years, Denmark at 42.6 years, and Estonia at 41.5 years.

At the other end of the ranking were Romania with 32.7 years, Italy with 33.0 years, Bulgaria with 34.6 years and Greece with 35.3 years.

Gender Gap Remains Wider Than EU Average

Men in Cyprus are expected to remain in work for 42.1 years, compared with 36.7 years for women. The gap of 5.4 years exceeds the EU average gender gap of 4.1 years.

Across the bloc, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia were the only countries where women were expected to spend longer in employment than men. Finland recorded the smallest positive gender gap at 0.7 years.

Italy posted the widest gap at 8.9 years, followed by Romania at 6.9 years, Greece at 6.7 years and Malta at 6.3 years.

Working Lives Continue To Lengthen

Between 2016 and 2025, expected working life in Cyprus increased by 3.5 years, placing the country among the strongest performers in the EU over the period. Men’s expected working life rose by 3.3 years, while women’s increased by 3.6 years.

Across the EU, every member state recorded an increase. Malta posted the largest gain at 4.9 years, followed by Hungary and Ireland at 4.2 years each, and the Netherlands at 4.1 years.

Malta’s increase was driven largely by women, whose expected working life rose by 7.8 years, the biggest increase recorded across the bloc.

By comparison, Romania, Spain, Italy, Germany and Austria recorded gains of two years or less over the same period.

Women’s Working Lives Increase Faster Across Europe

Women’s expected working life increased faster than men’s in most EU countries. Denmark, Romania, Sweden and Greece were the main exceptions.

In Cyprus, gains for men and women were broadly similar, alongside Bulgaria, Belgium and Slovenia.

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