European Union: Finance and Banking

The Anti-Money Laundering Regulation (AMLR) introduces a more structured framework for risk assessment while maintaining the Risk-Based Approach at its core. Enhanced Due Diligence requirements now extend to high-net-worth individuals and residence-by-investment schemes, while Simplified Due Diligence faces stricter conditions. The regulation provides EU-wide clarity on politically exposed persons (PEPs) and establishes harmonised risk factors across member states.

The Central Bank of Ireland has published draft guidance proposing enhanced weekly liquid asset requirements for money market funds, aligning with European Commission recommendations to strengthen market resilience during liquidity stress events.

The Central Bank of Ireland has published two significant reports detailing the evolution of its gatekeeping framework for financial services firms and individuals.

The Central Bank of Ireland's latest Financial Stability Review examines intensifying global risks facing the domestic financial system, with particular focus on AI financing developments and their potential market implications. Governor Makhlouf highlights elevated vulnerabilities from Middle East energy supply shocks, AI-related stock valuations, and evolving cybersecurity threats, while emphasizing the accumulated resilience in Ireland's financial system through strong capital buffers and prudent lending

When lending to an Irish company under English or US law, specific filing and registration requirements apply to security documents.

On 20 May 2026, the European Commission published a targeted consultation on the review of Regulation (“EU”) 2023/1114 on Markets in Crypto-Assets (“MiCA”).

In its first quarter 2026 report, Malta has once again achieved a high ranking, being placed first in Europe and second globally on the Cape Town Convention (CTC) Compliance Index. With a score of 95 out of 100...

Explore the key aviation financing and leasing trends shaping 2026, including consolidation, ABS resurgence, alternative capital and the role of Ireland and the Cayman Islands.

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) has issued a Public Consultation proposing the establishment of a dedicated regulatory framework for aircraft financial leasing companies.

CRD VI introduces new EU-wide branch requirements for non-EU lenders providing banking services to European borrowers, with a critical July 2026 deadline approaching.

Recent developments in the aviation financing market are driving a noticeable shift in how transactions are being structured.

In its first quarter 2026 report, Malta has once again achieved a high ranking, being placed first in Europe and second globally on the Cape Town Convention (CTC) Compliance Index. With a score of 95 out of 100...