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Strengthening Europe’s AML Defenses: AMLA Chair Bruna Szego Visits Cyprus

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 31, 2025

Enhancing Cross-Border Collaboration

Bruna Szego, Chair of the Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), embarked on a strategic visit to Cyprus as part of a broader tour across European Union member states. Hosted at the Central Bank of Cyprus headquarters, the trip underscored AMLA’s commitment to consolidating efforts against money laundering through closer coordination with National Competent Authorities (NCAs).

High-Level Engagements and Strategic Discussions

During her visit, Szego engaged in a series of high-level meetings, including a private discussion with Kleanthi Ioannidis, Cyprus’ permanent joint representative on AMLA’s General Council. She also met with senior officials from the CBC, including Executive Board Member George Karatzias and Pani Karamanou, Head of the Directorate for Financial Stability and Resolution.

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Two roundtable discussions followed, drawing representatives from a diverse spectrum of NCAs across both financial and non-financial sectors, as well as key industry associations. These sessions provided a forum for candid discourse on the inherent challenges and new opportunities emerging from AMLA’s innovative approach to anti-money laundering protocols.

AMLA’s Strategic Vision

Throughout the discussions, Szego articulated AMLA’s short-term priorities and long-term vision, emphasizing the importance of harmonizing supervisory practices across member states. The dialogue also delved into current challenges, particularly the need for a unified framework in supervising financial entities with significant cross-border activities. This coordinated approach is critical as AMLA prepares to assume direct oversight over 40 financial obliged entities by January 2028.

Future Outlook

The strategic meetings in Cyprus serve as a pivotal step in fostering a unified European front against money laundering and terrorist financing. As AMLA continues to cement its regulatory framework—officially established following legislative approval in May 2024 and operational since July 2025—the collaborative efforts with national authorities, as demonstrated in Cyprus, are set to drive remarkable advancements in the financial sector’s integrity and resilience.

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Cyprus Property Valuers Advocate Investment Funds For Affordable Housing Initiative

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 10, 2025

A Strategic Investment for Social Stability

Cyprus’ property valuers association has put forward a compelling proposal for the creation of 500 new affordable housing units. The association recommends that investment funds, including the social insurance fund and other private initiatives, actively participate in the development process. This strategic move is intended to secure the long-term financial stability required for such a vital infrastructure project.

An Innovative Financial Model

Polys Kourousides, President of the association, emphasized that the financial structure should be designed to avoid additional strain on the state budget. “The model should prioritize sustainability and efficiency, especially since the private sector is tasked with the delivery of these housing units,” Kourousides stated. His remarks highlight the importance of blending public interest with private sector expertise to effectively address pressing social challenges.

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Addressing a Growing Social Need

Kourousides further described the initiative as a timely response to one of the most urgent social issues of our time. The association has long championed the use of state-owned land for affordable housing projects, underlining its commitment to socially balanced urban development. In addition, the association remains prepared to assist the government by providing essential technical and scientific perspectives to shape a modern, efficient housing framework.

Looking Ahead

This proposal underscores the growing recognition among industry leaders that innovative financial models and public-private collaboration are essential to address housing shortages. With a clear roadmap and the right investment partners, Cyprus may well set a benchmark in sustainable and inclusive urban development.