EBA Publishes 2026 Work Programme with Focus on Efficiency and Regulatory Reform

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has published its 2026 Work Programme, setting out its strategic priorities and a detailed plan to improve the regulatory and supervisory framework across the European Union. The programme, adopted on 29 September 2025 by the EBA Board of Supervisors, places a strong emphasis on simplifying processes, cutting unnecessary burdens, and enhancing resilience in the financial system.

At the centre of the 2026 Work Programme are three priorities: creating a rulebook that underpins an efficient, resilient and sustainable single market; developing advanced tools, data and methodologies to strengthen risk assessments and oversight; and addressing technological innovation to build supervisory capacity across the sector. The year 2026 will also be significant as the EBA assumes new supervisory responsibilities under the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA), the Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA), and oversight of initial margin models under EMIR. Meanwhile, its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CFT) mandate will transfer to the newly established Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA).

In preparation for these changes, the EBA has launched a wide-ranging review of the EU regulatory and supervisory framework. This assessment covered Level 2 and Level 3 regulatory products, reporting requirements for financial institutions, the EBA’s role in the prudential rulebook, and its own internal structures. The outcome of this review is 21 recommendations designed to streamline processes, strengthen proportionality, and ensure the Single Rulebook continues to deliver a level playing field for EU banks and financial entities.

The programme reflects extensive consultation, including input from the European Commission and the EBA’s Advisory Committee on Proportionality. A dedicated task force composed of supervisors and EBA staff has shaped the proposals, with the executive summary due to be published in all EU languages.

The EBA’s move to enhance regulatory efficiency comes at a pivotal moment for the EU financial sector. With growing responsibilities in digital resilience, crypto markets and cross-border risk management, the Authority’s focus on simplification and efficiency is intended to safeguard stability, strengthen trust, and support a more integrated financial system across the Union.

Read the press release here.