Monaco’s Blacklisting: Why Malta is the Best Alternative for Investors
On June 10, 2025, the European Union added Monaco to its list of high-risk jurisdictions due to weaknesses in its anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CFT) frameworks. This move follows the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) decision to greylist Monaco.
For investors and businesses looking for a trusted and compliant jurisdiction, Malta stands out as the best alternative.
Strong AML and CFT Framework in Malta
Malta has a robust regulatory system to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Its Prevention of Money Laundering Act criminalizes these activities under an “all crimes” approach. The Financial Intelligence Analysis Unit (FIAU) closely monitors compliance with strict regulations.
In summer 2025, the new Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AMLA) should be operational. This is an EU-wide agency that strengthens oversight of high-risk financial entities.
Malta Meets Global Standards
Malta’s laws align fully with EU directives and FATF recommendations, ensuring high transparency and security. The country’s proactive AML/CFT approach has earned strong recognition internationally.
Why Choose Malta?
- EU Membership: Access to the single market and trusted EU regulations.
- Reputable Financial Sector: Strong banking, investment, and insurance industries under tight supervision.
- Strategic Location: Central Mediterranean position connects Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
- Skilled Workforce: Multilingual and knowledgeable professionals in finance and law.
- Hybrid legal system: an understanding of other legal systems which helps with compatibility
- Double Tax treaties: with treaties with over 70 countries around the world, this helps with ensuring that tax is only paid once
- Reputable maritime jurisdiction: a long-standing white flag and entrenched in maritime history and tradition, the Malta flag is respected in major ports around the world. This tonnage tax system is also much favoured by shipowners (and commercial yacht owners).
- Growing and favoured aviation jurisdiction: the pragmatic and forward-looking approach has encouraged several companies to register their aircraft and owning structures here, for several reasons.
Conclusion
With Monaco blacklisted, Malta is a secure, compliant, and strategic choice for investors and financial institutions. Choosing Malta means partnering with a jurisdiction that prioritizes financial integrity and regulatory excellence.
At Asteria Advisory, we provide tailored solutions for registering your yacht or aircraft, setting up trusts or companies to own your asset, and creating tax-efficient structures to maximise Malta’s benefits.
If we don’t have the direct solution, we bring together the best professionals in our network to ensure your needs are fully met—no matter how complex.
Contact Asteria Advisory today and let us build the bridge to your seamless asset management in Malta.