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Navigating New Reporting Standards: CySEC’s Guidance for Cyprus Investment Firms

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has released an essential update aimed at all Cyprus Investment Firms (CIFs) on how to report cross-border investment activities within the European Economic Area (EEA) for the coming year.

This change, built on Circular C694 under section 25(1)(c)(ii) and (iii) of the CySEC Law, aligns with broader European initiatives spearheaded by the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA). Prime focus is on CIFs extending their services beyond national borders to countries like Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

Key Reporting Requirements

CIFs must complete an online questionnaire for activities between January 1 and December 31, 2024, particularly if more than 50 retail clients are involved. Services under the “freedom to provide services” must be reported, excluding those provided through local branches.

Reporting of inactive clients is not needed unless they still generate revenue despite inactivity. Each host member state with significant client activity requires a separate submission, excluding Cyprus as a home state from this requirement.

The deadline for these submissions is May 26, 2025, with an email and password necessary to access the reporting platform. Important: Preserve submission confirmations as evidence of compliance.

Consequences Of Non-Compliance

CySEC warns that failing to adhere to these guidelines could result in administrative penalties. There will be no reminders for missing submissions—CIFs must ensure their reporting is on time and accurate.

Cyprus Records 3.1M Guest Nights In Q3 2025

Cyprus recorded 3.1 million guest nights in short-term rental accommodation in the third quarter of 2025, according to Eurostat. The data reflect bookings made through online platforms.

Record Performance In Q3 2025

Between July and September 2025, guest nights reached 3,104,502 across platforms, including Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia. The volume highlights the role of digital booking platforms in Cyprus’s tourism sector.

Continental Trends Bolstering Digital Tourism

Across the EU, short-term rental activity also increased. In the fourth quarter of 2025, total guest nights reached 172.30 million, up 10.90% compared to the same period in 2024 and 30.20% higher than in 2023. For the full year, online platforms accounted for 951.60 million nights in 2025, representing an increase of 11.40% year on year and 32.40% compared to 2023.

Regional Destinations And Competitive Dynamics

Tourism activity remains concentrated in southern European regions. Croatia’s Jadranska Hrvatska recorded 27.70 million guest nights, followed by Spain’s Andalucia with 19.50 million and France’s Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur with 16.90 million. Cyprus is not among the top 20 EU regions by volume, though its figures remain notable relative to its size.

Economic Implications And Forward Outlook

Tourism continues to play a key role in Cyprus’s economy, with online platforms accounting for a growing share of bookings. Eurostat data indicate continued expansion in digital tourism, with implications for policy planning and investment across the sector.

 

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Aretilaw firm
eCredo
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