Breaking news

Cyprus Government Launches Online Compensation Portal For Bank Bail-In Victims

The government has officially unveiled an online platform designed to facilitate partial compensation for losses incurred during the 2013 bank bail-in. The initiative targets uninsured savings beyond €100,000 and addresses losses suffered by bondholders of legacy Laiki (Popular) Bank and Bank of Cyprus.

Digital Platform Live For Submission

The platform is now operational, accepting applications from December 20, 2023, through May 25, 2024, and will remain accessible until September 30 this year. Users can log in using their existing credentials from the CY Login (formerly Ariadne) system to begin the application process.

Structured Verification And Disbursement Process

Upon submission, each application will undergo a thorough verification process. Successful applicants will receive an email detailing the compensation amount they are eligible for and will then be required to provide their IBAN for direct bank transfer. It is imperative that the bank account provided is either individually owned or a joint account.

Compensation Caps And Policy Framework

For fiscal year disbursements, compensation is capped at €100,000 per individual. Specific compensation limits are set based on the institution: legacy Laiki (Popular) Bank savers and male bondholders from Laiki can receive up to €100,000, whereas Bank of Cyprus savers and bondholders have caps of €13,032 and €99,760 respectively. These measures emerge from a 2013 bailout initiative where depositors contributed to the recapitalization of financially strained banks amid Greece’s economic crisis.

Pathway For Further Objections

Applicants who do not receive approval for their initial submissions have the opportunity to file an objection, ensuring that all claims receive further scrutiny. With verified losses estimated at approximately €2 billion, this platform is a critical step towards restoring confidence and providing financial redress for affected depositors and investors.

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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