EU financial supervisors: A comparison of governance structures and powers

Briefing 12-12-2025

The EU has developed a differentiated system of financial supervision, distributing powers among bodies such as the ECB, ESMA, SRB and AMLA. Each authority operates with distinct mandates, governance structures and accountability mechanisms. Their combined roles illustrate how the Union balances centralisation, coordination and independence to address systemic risks, cross-border challenges and financial innovation.