The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) is set to introduce an updated version of its anti-money laundering (AML) guidelines in 2026, building on insights gained from the submission and review of its second annual AML report.
Originally published in March 2023, the guidelines offer practical, sector-specific advice to online gambling operators on key AML procedures, including customer and business risk assessments, customer due diligence, suspicious transaction reporting, and record-keeping. They adopt a risk-based approach in line with EU and FATF standards, while also addressing the unique characteristics of the online gambling sector that may not be widely understood by AML regulators.
This marks the second year of monitoring and represents another important step in EGBAs ongoing efforts to enhance AML compliance within Europes online gambling industry. Dr. Ekaterina Hartmann, director of legal and regulatory affairs at EGBA, explained that EGBA aims to raise the bar for AML compliance standards among its members and, by setting an example, encourage other operators across the industry to follow suit. The association invites non-member operators to join the initiative and contribute to strengthening the sectors role in combating financial crime.
Further details about the changes planned for 2026 will be shared in due course. However, EGBA has indicated that the updated guidelines will include enhanced guidance on areas such as risk assessments, payments, outsourcing, and sports integrity. The guidelines are built on a risk-based approach, with a core principle that AML and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) measures should be proportionate to the level of risk identified within the current operating environment.
The European Gaming and Betting Association is a Brussels-based trade association representing the leading online gambling operators that are established, licensed, and regulated within the EU. EGBA works closely with national and EU authorities, as well as other stakeholders, to support the development of a well-regulated online gambling market that prioritizes high standards of consumer protection, while reflecting the realities of the digital environment and changing consumer behaviors. As part of its commitment to promoting safer gambling, EGBA organizes and coordinates the annual European Safer Gambling Week, uniting industry stakeholders to encourage safe and responsible play.
EGBA members are committed to the highest regulatory standards. They collectively hold 321 online gambling licenses, each of which is subject to strict compliance obligations. All of these licensees serve more than 30 million customers across 21 European countries. Together, they account for approximately 30% of Europes online gambling gross gaming revenue in 2024.
