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CIFA: A Year Of Strategic Growth And Opportunity For Investment Funds In 2025

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 9, 2025

The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) is stepping into 2025 with renewed confidence, building on the significant achievements of the past years. Despite the global uncertainties that continue to unfold, Cyprus’ Investment Funds sector has firmly established itself as a vital contributor to the nation’s economic and social prosperity.

In 2024, Cyprus reached a major milestone, surpassing €9.3 billion in assets under management. This remarkable achievement highlights the sector’s impressive growth and resilience. The year also marked an expansion of Cyprus’ global presence, attracting new fund managers and investment opportunities, further cementing its status as a leading European hub for Investment Funds. This success was driven by strategic collaborations and the dedicated efforts of professionals within the sector, fostering the creation of specialized job roles and reinforcing Cyprus’ position as a robust financial centre.

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Looking ahead to 2025, CIFA remains fully committed to promoting Cyprus as the premier destination for global investment funds. By working alongside key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, and Invest Cyprus, CIFA aims to enhance the regulatory framework and drive innovative solutions for the industry. The timely approval of pending legislation that modernizes regulatory processes and introduces new investment structures is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the sector. These updates will provide the industry with the necessary tools to stay competitive and aligned with international best practices. CIFA urges all stakeholders to prioritize this agenda to ensure Cyprus continues to attract high-quality investments and talent.

In addition, CIFA recognises the importance of equipping individuals and businesses with essential financial knowledge. In 2025, the association plans to roll out initiatives designed to boost financial literacy across Cyprus. These will include workshops, partnerships, and digital campaigns aimed at enhancing understanding of investment funds and financial planning. By empowering citizens and professionals with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions, CIFA is contributing to the long-term economic resilience of Cyprus.

Maria Panayiotou, President of CIFA, shares her outlook for the year: “The success of the Investment Funds sector is a reflection of our adaptability, innovation, and ability to thrive in a competitive global market. In 2025, our focus will be on sustainability, technology-driven solutions, and strengthening our partnerships across markets. Our goal is to drive economic growth while delivering lasting value for society. With the combined expertise and dedication of our sector, I am confident that we will continue to play a transformative role in Cyprus’ economy, fostering resilience and creating opportunities for all.”

As Cyprus embarks on a year of revitalisation and resilience, CIFA remains steadfast in advocating for the interests of its members, elevating Cyprus on the international stage, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development within the financial sector. The association calls on all stakeholders to collaborate in advancing the innovation, sustainability, and resilience that will define Cyprus’ financial future.

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EBA Unveils 2024 Report to Strengthen Supervisory Convergence Across the EU

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 27, 2025

Overview

The European Banking Authority’s 2024 annual report details a comprehensive effort to harmonize supervisory practices across the European Union. The report outlines strategic initiatives across prudential supervision, resolution and crisis management, digital finance, consumer protection, and the interim AML/CFT framework until the end of 2025. This marks a decisive step in implementing further recommendations from the EBA’s evaluation of regulatory efficiency.

Consolidating Prudential Supervision

The EBA’s European Supervisory Examination Programme for 2024 focused on critical areas such as liquidity and funding risk, interest rate risk, and the operationalization of recovery measures. With risk levels remaining stable amidst ongoing challenges in data quality, stress testing, and modelling assumptions, the EBA is set to intensify its monitoring activities for online deposit platforms and oversee compliance with Supervisory Outlier Tests in 2025.

Advances in Resolution And Crisis Management

In the realm of resolution, the report highlights significant progress in operationalizing resolution tools, notably the bail-in mechanism in cross-border environments. Improved coordination among authorities, enhanced management information systems, and persistent efforts to refine data quality and legal recognition issues underpin this advancement.

Strategic Developments in Digital Finance

With digital finance at the forefront, the EBA has prioritized its preparations for the implementation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation. Efforts include the supervision of asset reference tokens and e-money token issuers, the development of an EU-wide supervisory handbook, and the coordination of workshops aimed at establishing a unified supervisory approach from the outset.

Enhancing Consumer Protection And AML/CFT Measures

The report also underscores improved cooperation and risk-based supervision among national authorities in consumer protection and AML/CFT. Notable progress has been achieved through AML/CFT college monitoring and implementation reviews, as the EBA prepares for the eventual transfer of AML/CFT supervisory responsibilities to the new EU Anti-Money Laundering Authority by the close of 2025.

Fostering A Common Supervisory Culture

Beyond sector-specific improvements, the EBA continues to champion supervisory convergence through robust cross-border initiatives including peer reviews, Q&A sessions, breach of Union law investigations, and comprehensive training programmes. In 2024 alone, 23 courses were delivered to over 3,000 participants, reinforcing best practices and aligning supervisory standards throughout the EU.

Future Trajectory

Looking ahead, the EBA is set to place greater emphasis on the effective implementation of the Single Rulebook. This strategic pivot will enhance supervisory outcomes and ensure the consistent application of regulatory measures, as reflected in the annual reports to the European Parliament and the Council under the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process.

With these measures, the EBA reaffirms its commitment to building a unified and resilient supervisory framework, essential for navigating the complex regulatory landscape of the European financial sector.