The European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) is tightening requirements for cryptocurrency companies by implementing stricter anti-money laundering rules across the European Union. The agency, which began operations in July 2025, will coordinate the enforcement of uniform AML standards for the 27 EU countries.
This is reported by Business • Media
New Rules for the Cryptocurrency Business
AMLA Chair Bruna Sego emphasized the need for thorough verification of beneficial owners and shareholders of cryptocurrency service providers. Special attention will be given to the source of capital and geographical aspects to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing.
“Regulators must verify the beneficial owners and shareholders of cryptocurrency service providers. Attention will be paid to both the origin of capital and geography — to eliminate any connection to money laundering and terrorism.”
Sego also highlighted that differing interpretations of AML in EU member states create risks of market fragmentation and regulatory arbitrage. To address these issues, the EU is gradually implementing the MiCA regulation, which aims to ensure the unification of rules.
Ban on Anonymous Wallets and Direct Access to Data
According to the new regulations, the use of anonymous crypto wallets, unlicensed assets, and privacy coins will be prohibited. Cryptocurrency companies will be required to provide government authorities with direct and unfiltered access to customer data. These requirements will come into effect in July 2027.
Lawyers consider the actions of AMLA to be logical. Kingsley Napley lawyer Anna Holmes emphasized that strengthening AML norms in the cryptocurrency sector will help more effectively combat illegal operations. A similar approach is being taken by the UK financial regulator FCA.
At the same time, the crypto industry is actively adapting to the new requirements. Leading market players are already obtaining MiCA licenses to operate in the EU. For instance, in June 2025, the American exchange Kraken, as well as Coinbase, Bybit, Bitstamp, Clearstream, and other companies received licenses.
Additionally, Google has updated its advertising rules for cryptocurrency companies in EU countries in accordance with MiCA requirements. Advertisers now need to consider the legal specifics of each jurisdiction, which will further complicate the operations of crypto companies in the European market, experts note.
It is worth recalling that earlier, Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino explained the company’s decision not to obtain a MiCA license for the USDT stablecoin.