Panama in 2025 is considered quite calm in terms of international listings and pressures, allowing its financial system to remain at the forefront. Julio Aguirre, president of Aguirre & Schwarz, commented that Panama is at the forefront regarding the compliance of FACCA and CRS standards. These anti-money laundering standards are based on the potential pressure from FATF. Aguirre reminded that the issue of money laundering to international standards is grounded in the pressures that FATF can generate. He noted that for tax purposes, Panama is still under consideration from both the European Union and the OECD, as they still view it as a tax haven. However, Panama shares information and is prepared to respond to any investigative tax requests. At the end of 2024 and into 2025, Panama was not on any lists related to money laundering or terrorist financing. Nevertheless, Aguirre emphasized the need to always be at the forefront, as FATF's recommendations are constantly being updated. Key issues to consider include crypto-assets, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and asset forfeiture.
