EEGS webinar helps European gambling leaders prepare for sweeping AML reforms

Leading figures from the European gambling sector gathered for an EEGS webinar focused on the EU’s new Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) and the far-reaching regulatory reforms under the new AML package.

Titled “Preparing for the AMLA Era – What Gambling Stakeholders Must Know About the New AML Package and Beyond in Times of Increased Enforcement”, the session was hosted by Dr. Ekaterina Hartmann, Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs at the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA).

Dr. Hartmann outlined the key elements of the new framework, including the creation of AMLA (expected to become operational in 2026), a shift from directives to directly applicable regulations, and the expansion of the list of obliged entities to include sectors such as crypto services and football clubs.

She also shared that since 2022, there has been a significant rise in AML audits across the sector. Specifically, in 2024, EGBA member operators underwent a total of 142 license audits, with 48 of those audits being anti-money laundering. She stressed that these numbers are expected to grow further as the importance of fighting money laundering continues to increase.

Participants explored practical challenges of implementation, particularly the impact of enhanced due diligence (EDD) requirements on customer retention and compliance burdens across jurisdictions.

“The AML reforms represent a major shift for both financial and non-financial sectors. Gambling operators must prepare now to adapt to the new EU-wide standards,” said Dr. Hartmann.

The event also emphasized the benefits of regulatory harmonization and provided actionable insights for operators facing growing enforcement across the EU. All attendees also received a personalized certificate of participation.

This webinar is part of EGBA’s broader initiative to support the industry’s transition to the new AML framework ahead of the 10 July 2027 deadline. Those who missed the webinar can catch the full session here.