A financial system that protects

A financial system that protects society from crime, rather than being abused by it. That is why Financial Intelligence Unit-the Netherlands exists.

We work to safeguard a financial system that is reliable, Strong enough to prevent criminal activity whilst being resilient to withstand new and emerging threats. As the Financial Intelligence Unit of the Netherlands (FIU-the Netherlands), we play a vital role in that protection — both nationally and internationally.

Every day, we receive thousands of reports from notaries, crypto-asset service providers, payment service providers, banks and other institutions. These organisations act as the “gatekeepers” of the financial system. They identify unusual and important signals which they then need to report to us. Our work begins with these signals. We analyse patterns, identify connections, and enrich the information, thereby transforming it into financial intelligence. This intelligence enables our public partners — such as investigative authorities and supervisors — to take the right action at the right time. Whether it concerns money laundering, terrorism financing or other forms of financial crime, financial intelligence can be decisive in preventing and combating criminal activity.

From the underworld to the legitimate economy

Criminals have always sought to integrate their illegal proceeds into the legitimate economy. From Al Capone and Pablo Escobar to the criminals of today, history shows how deeply disruptive illicit assets can be to entire societies. Whereas in the past suitcases of cash crossed borders, today’s illicit financial flows also move through digital systems, international networks, and reputable financial institutions.

Over the course of the twentieth century, awareness grew that financial trails are essential in the fight against crime. This led to the establishment of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 1989. One year later, its forty recommendations laid the foundation for the global anti-money laundering framework. The objective was — and remains — to strengthen the resilience of the financial system and protect society as a whole. Since then, a broad network of public and private organisations has worked together to prevent and combat money laundering, predicate offences and terrorism financing.

The power of financial intelligence

Criminal behaviour always leaves traces, often within the financial system. Gatekeepers are the first to detect and report these signals. Sometimes they appear insignificant in isolation. But once connected, their value becomes visible. What may begin as figures on a screen can ultimately lead to the dismantling of a criminal network, the prevention of an attack, or the protection of victims — through the sharing of financial intelligence with our partners.

Financial intelligence supports public authorities in steering investigations. It can reveal who is doing business with whom, how criminal procurement chains operate, or how taxes are evaded. It provides insight into corruption, all sorts of fraud, terrorism financing, exploitation, arms trafficking and many other ways in which the financial system is abused.

Often, financial intelligence is the missing piece that sets a case in motion. At the same time, it can illuminate what was previously unknown — criminal processes that were still hidden. In this way, it contributes to a wide range of interventions, from arrests and asset seizures to licence withdrawals and the creation of protective barriers.

Since the introduction of the Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (Prevention) Act (Wwft) in 2008, FIU-the Netherlands has held an exclusive mandate: receiving, analysing, and interpreting unusual transactions. This places us in a key position within the anti-money laundering framework. A position that carries significant responsibility. Our analyses have direct consequences and therefore demand precision, perseverance, a strong results focus, and a clear moral compass.

The people behind the work

Our systems and data are essential, but it is our people who truly make the difference. We are certified professionals who understand, respect, and uphold our responsibilities and legal mandates. We are acutely aware of the unique position of FIU-the Netherlands and take the responsibility that comes with it seriously. Integrity is our guiding principle.

We work with expertise, commitment and meticulous care on complex cases — often out of the public eye, yet with pride in our contribution to the protection of society. We know that every decision matters, and we take ownership of making those decisions as carefully and effectively as possible, every single day.

Connection is crucial in this. Internally, we support one another when it matters. Externally, we actively seek collaboration. Without reporting entities, there is no insight; without partners, there is no action. We therefore work closely with public and private partners, both nationally and internationally. Organised crime is too large and too sophisticated to confront alone. It requires an organised response. It is through collaboration that our analyses gain impact and financial intelligence is translated into tangible results.

Borderless cooperation

Crime does not stop at national borders — and neither do we. FIU-the Netherlands is part of the Egmont Group, a global network of more than 180 financial intelligence units that exchange information and expertise.

This cooperation strengthens the international approach to money laundering and terrorism financing and enhances the resilience of the global financial system. For us, cooperation is not optional; it is the foundation of our work.

New legislation, technological developments, and evolving criminal methods require constant adaptability. At the same time, we are preparing for the new European anti-money laundering framework and continue to invest in our systems, knowledge, and skills. In a changing landscape, our question is never whether we move with the times, but how we do so as effectively as possible — without losing sight of our core values.

Seeing more together

Every report, no matter how small, can be the beginning of something significant. A pattern emerges. A network is uncovered. A plan is disrupted. A victim is protected. By working together, sharing information and strengthening one another, we uncover what remains hidden. We shine light into the darkness. In doing so, we help build a resilient financial system in which criminals cannot gain a foothold.

Every contribution matters: from the reporting entity that takes the first step, to the analyst who pieces together the puzzle; from the partners who intervene, to the colleagues working behind the scenes to ensure continuity. Together, we protect not only the financial system, but also the society that depends on it.

Financial intelligence: seeing more together