APG Mutual Evaluation 2026: Roles of Stakeholders in Sri Lanka

How a leading Asian bank optimised AML effectiveness by 7% When a top-tier Asian bank began testing their AML system, they found effectiveness scores on manipulated names were below industry benchmarks. Improving these results was essential, not only to align with regulatory expectations, but also to ensure strong system performance. That’s where AMLA® stepped in. Using the Threshold Analyser tool, the bank was able to: 🟠 Identify opportunities for system optimisation through threshold tuning 🟠 Visualise system effectiveness and efficiency at different threshold levels without relying on additional IT resource 🟠 Improve effectiveness scores by 7% without compromising efficiency Beyond the numbers, AMLA®’s structured testing framework and expert-led communication gave the bank confidence in responding to regulatory enquiries, ensuring clarity and efficiency throughout the engagement. This feedback highlights the impact of our Threshold Analyser, ORBS platform and SME-led support in helping financial institutions meet regulatory expectations with confidence. Learn more about AMLA® solutions: buff.ly/QuBgs3h #RegTech #FinancialCrime #SanctionsCompliance #NoCompetitors

FATF CALLS FOR STRONGER GLOBAL ACTION ON VIRTUAL ASSET AML/CFT COMPLIANCE In its latest update on the global implementation of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) measures for virtual assets (VAs) and virtual asset service providers (VASPs), the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) emphasizes the need for continued action to strengthen the integrity of the international financial system. While most jurisdictions, including those with significant VASP activity, have made progress since 2024 in advancing AML/CFT frameworks and enforcement, further work is required in licensing and registration, particularly in identifying entities conducting VASP operations and addressing risks associated with offshore providers. To enhance transparency in cross-border payments, 99 jurisdictions have enacted or are in the process of implementing the Travel Rule. To support these efforts, the FATF has published Best Practices on Travel Rule Supervision, providing practical examples and guidance to assist jurisdictions in building effective supervisory frameworks. The report also features an updated overview of regulatory progress across jurisdictions within the FATF Global Network that represent approximately 98% of the global virtual asset market. Full and consistent implementation of FATF Standards within this group is seen as critical to mitigating global financial crime risks. Recognizing the borderless nature of virtual assets, the FATF warns that regulatory gaps in one jurisdiction can have widespread consequences. The report identifies emerging threats linked to the criminal misuse of virtual assets and draws on major cases from the past year to underscore the importance of international cooperation and the ability to freeze and recover illicit assets. It concludes by outlining key priorities for both the public and private sectors, calling for stronger, coordinated measures to counter increasingly sophisticated and professionalized financial crime networks. #FATF #AML #Compliance #VirtualAssets #CryptoRegulation #FinancialRegulation #Pakistan #FintechLaw #CFT #RegTech #CorporateLaw #FinancialCrimeCompliance #RiskManagement #LawAndTechnology #RegulatoryCompliance #Governance #Transparency #DueDiligence #DigitalAssets #Lawyer #Consultant #LegalAdvice Syed Imad-ud-Din Asad | Husnain Bahadur Raja | Bilal Ahmed | Amir Awan | Financial Action Task Force (FATF) | State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) | Fintech News Pakistan | Pakistan Fintech Network | Pakistan Banks Association

EBA AML/CFT Reports: The European Banking Authority has published 2 Anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism reports: 1. A report on tackling money laundering and terrorist financing risks in crypto-asset services, including issuance, trading, and service provision. The Report draws on lessons learnt from recent supervisory cases across the EU and highlights how competent authorities can strengthen their approaches to supervision in this fast-evolving sector. Read it hear: https://lnkd.in/eqnCBBwE 2.  A report that takes stock of the actions taken by all competent authorities to address the EBA’s findings and recommendations, and which notes that overall competent authorities have made significant progress over the past six years in adopting a risk-based approach to AML/CFT supervision. Read it here: https://lnkd.in/e_nys32N #AML #Ml #AntiMoneyLaunding #FinanicalCrimeCompliance

FinCEN Clarifies Cross-Border Information Sharing Rules The U.S. Treasury’s FinCEN has issued new guidance encouraging financial institutions to share information across borders — helping strengthen defenses against money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activity. While Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) remain confidential, the guidance confirms that sharing underlying transaction details is generally permitted under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). Our latest blog explains FinCEN’s new guidance and what it means for compliance teams navigating cross-border information sharing. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/e5ye_Ptt At Neopay Global, we help firms build effective frameworks for AML governance, information sharing, and SAR management across jurisdictions. #FinCEN #Compliance #AML #BSA #FinancialCrime #RegTech #InformationSharing

AML/CFT in the Loop: Progress or Setback? In its latest report on anti–money laundering and counter–terrorist financing (AML/CFT) supervision in the EU banking sector, the European Banking Authority (EBA) notes clear progress, though challenges remain.    👉 Encouraging findings include: Most national authorities now have dedicated AML/CFT strategies and structured supervisory frameworks; Improved coordination among domestic and cross-border supervisors; A shift toward a risk-based approach, strengthening effectiveness. ⚠️ Remaining challenges: Inconsistent cooperation with prudential supervisors; Partial implementation of past EBA recommendations; The upcoming transition to AMLA will be critical for achieving consistent EU-wide supervision. At NoW Partners, we support financial institutions in adapting to this evolving regulatory landscape turning AML/CFT compliance into a driver of trust and sustainable performance. 📄 Read the full EBA press release: #AML #CFT #Compliance #EBA #AMLA #Supervision #Finance #Regulation #Europe

Know all 2025 Anti-Money Laundering Regulatory Updates In 2025, significant reforms to the EU’s Anti-Money Laundering (AML) framework will impact entities regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). These updates aim to strengthen AML/CFT supervision, transparency, and cooperation across the EU. Key highlights: - European AML Authority (AMLA): Centralizes AML/CFT oversight across Member States. - Regulation (EU) 2024/1624: Establishes a unified framework to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. - 6th AML Directive (Directive (EU) 2024/1654): Expands access to financial data and enhances cross-border collaboration. - CySEC Circulars C614, C516, C550, C535, C655 & C656: Provide guidance on governance, AMLCO responsibilities, and inspection findings to strengthen compliance practices. At SALVUS, we help investment firms build strong AML/CFT frameworks aligned with CySEC and EU standards. Together with Institute for Professional Excellence we offer a self-paced CPD course “Know all 2025 Anti-Money Laundering Regulatory Updates” to help professionals stay informed and compliant. #StayCompliant #AML #CFT #CySEC #Compliance #SALVUS #IforPE #EURegulations

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released its Final Report after a six-year review of how 40 EU and EEA supervisory authorities handle money laundering and terrorist financing risks in banks. Key takeaways: - Authorities are now more organized and risk-focused in overseeing AML/CFT compliance. - Clearer strategies, stronger operational plans, and updated guidance are improving consistency and oversight. - Collaboration—both within countries and across borders has strengthened. - Challenges remain: resource limits, complex ongoing reforms, and the upcoming shift to a unified European AML/CFT authority (AMLA). This report gives a clear snapshot of AML/CFT supervision in Europe and sets the stage for AMLA’s future work in enhancing financial crime prevention.

🇪🇺 The European Banking Authority (EBA) publishes new report on tackling #MoneyLaundering and #TerroristFinancing risks in #CryptoAssetServices The EBA released its latest report addressing ML/TF risks in the crypto-asset sector - covering issuance, trading, and service provision. The document draws on lessons learned from recent supervisory cases across the EU and provides guidance for national competent authorities to strengthen their supervisory approaches in this fast-evolving field. Key highlights: - Strategies used by some #CASPs and issuers to evade AML/CFT supervision, including forum shopping and misuse of exemptions - Safeguards introduced by the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (#MiCA) and the revised EU AML/CFT framework - Core elements supporting effective supervision under the new regulatory regime By consolidating these findings, the #EBA aims to promote consistent implementation of MiCA and the enhanced AML/CFT framework - fostering a robust, transparent, and forward-looking approach to preventing financial crime in the #Crypto sector. Report: “Tackling ML/TF Risks in Crypto-Asset Services through Supervision – Lessons Learned from Recent Cases” (EBA/REP/2025/28 – October 2025) #Compliance #ComplianceOfficer #AML #CFT #FollowTheMoney #CryptoRegulation #FinancialCrime #EURegulation #Supervision #RiskManagement

EBA publishes Final Report on AML/CFT Supervision of Banks The European Banking Authority (EBA) has released its Final Report on Competent Authorities’ Approaches to Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Supervision of Banks (EBA/REP/2025/27). Between 2018 and 2024, the EBA reviewed 40 national competent authorities (NCAs) across the EU to assess and strengthen their AML/CFT supervisory practices. The report highlights significant progress in: - Developing AML/CFT supervisory strategies and manuals - Enhancing cooperation with FIUs, tax, and prudential authorities - Strengthening international collaboration Despite challenges such as resource constraints and preparation for the new EU AML/CFT framework, the overall effectiveness of supervision and cooperation has improved across the EU. This report marks the conclusion of the EBA’s AML/CFT review project and provides the new EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) with a strong foundation for future supervision. #EBA #AMLA #AML #CFT #BankingSupervision #FinancialIntegrity #Compliance

🇪🇺 The European Banking Authority (EBA) publishes new report on tackling #moneylaundering and #terroristfinancing risks in #cryptoassetservices Today, the EBA released a report addressing ML/TF risks in the crypto-asset sector, including issuance, trading, and service provision. The document draws on lessons learnt from recent supervisory cases across the EU and provides guidance for national competent authorities to strengthen their supervisory approaches in this fast-evolving field. The report also highlights: ▪️strategies used by some crypto-asset service providers (#CASPs) and issuers to sidestep #AML/ #CFT supervision ▪️the safeguards introduced by the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (#MiCA) and the revised EU AML/CFT framework ▪️and the key elements supporting effective supervision under the new regulatory regime By consolidating these findings, the #EBA aims to support the consistent implementation of MiCA and the enhanced AML/CFT framework, promoting a robust and forward-looking approach to preventing financial crime in the #cryptosector. #compliace #complianceofficer #followthemoney #antimoneylaundering