The EU has established laws and regulations to govern financial transactions with the aim of combating money laundering and terrorist financing and safeguarding financial stability. In this context several changes will be introduced in the coming years. Since July 2025 the Europe-wide Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) in Frankfurt has been operational.

Financial Transparency
As a result a ban on cash payments of €3,000 or more for in-store purchases will come first into effect in the Netherlands on January 1, 2026. For business transactions a maximum cash payment limit of €10,000 will apply along with a customer identification requirement for transactions between €3,000 and €10,000. Across the EU a ban on cash payments of €10,000 or more will take effect on January 1, 2027. Unusual transactions must be reported. The EU is also working on a digital euro, which is expected to be introduced in 2028. Big Brother is watching you. Switzerland is not part of the EU and is (not yet) developing a digital currency.

Date: August 7, 2025
Source: Dutch central government