A Shift in Shopping Habits: 76% of Cypriots Embrace Online Shopping

by News Editor

June 2, 2025

In an era heavily leaning towards the digital, Cyprus has marked a pivotal milestone with 76% of its citizens now engaging in online shopping, as revealed in the latest survey by the Office of the Commissioner of Electronic Communications & Postal Regulation (OCECPR).

The study shows not only an increase in the number of online shoppers, but also a rise in the frequency of purchases, from an average of 1.2 times per month in 2022 to 2.0 in 2025.

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The survey collected feedback from over 1,500 participants, consisting of both citizens and small businesses, illustrating a nuanced shift in postal usage. Interestingly, while 95% of individuals still prefer Cyprus Post, this figure drops drastically for businesses, with just 28% relying on it, as they increasingly opt for private services.

Postal Patterns and Parcel Preferences

The report highlights a fascinating turnaround in postal habits. The number of letters received and sent has climbed since 2023, countering years of decline. Parcel deliveries have seen a similar uptick, with 71% of businesses reporting higher parcel over letter shipments and anticipating continued growth.

This aligns with global trends where businesses adapt to consumer demands for efficient logistics.

Decision Factors: Beyond Cost

Although citizens deem postal service costs reasonable, they largely base their choices on quality, location, and user experience. Businesses, on the other hand, prioritize quick service, competitive rates, extensive networks, and reliable tracking systems.

As the digital realm continues to evolve, it’s worthwhile considering the broader technological landscape and its implications.

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European Central Bank Report Highlights Stable Inflation and Economic Outlook

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 29, 2025

Overview Of Inflation Trends

The latest European Central Bank survey shows a slight decline in median inflation expectations over the next 12 months, decreasing from 2.8% in August to 2.7% in September. Despite this minor adjustment, consumer perceptions of past 12-month inflation have held steady at 3.1% for the eighth consecutive month. Long-term projections for three- and five-year inflation remain stable at 2.5% and 2.2% respectively.

Consumer Expectations Drive Income And Spending Projections

Across the board, expectations for nominal income growth over the upcoming year have remained consistent at 1.1%. However, there is a noticeable shift in spending behavior: while perceived nominal spending growth for the past year slipped slightly to 4.9% from 5.0%, expectations for spending growth over the next 12 months rose to 3.5%. Notably, lower income groups continue to forecast marginally higher spending increases compared to their higher income counterparts.

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Stability In Economic And Labour Market Outlook

Economic growth expectations are modestly pessimistic, with respondents forecasting a contraction of -1.2% over the next 12 months. Concurrently, anticipated unemployment levels remain unchanged at 10.7% a year ahead, though the outlook varies by income, with lower income households expecting unemployment rates as high as 12.7%, while higher income groups maintain expectations around 9.4%. Overall, the slight difference between current and future unemployment suggests a broadly stable labor market outlook.

Housing Market And Credit Conditions

The survey also reveals an upswing in expectations related to the housing market. Home price growth expectations have edged higher to 3.5%, and anticipated mortgage interest rates have risen modestly to 4.6%. Similar to other metrics, expectations vary by income, with lower income households expecting higher mortgage rates. In recent months, a marginal decline in reported credit tightening over the past 12 months contrasts with a renewed forecast of tighter credit conditions in the forthcoming year.

Conclusion

The ECB’s latest findings underscore the delicate balance between stable long-term economic forecasts and short-term adjustments in consumer expectations. The slight dips in inflation expectations, alongside stable perceptions of past inflation, delineate a marketplace that is both cautious and measured. As income, spending, and housing market metrics continue to evolve, these indicators provide critical insights for policymakers and investors navigating an increasingly complex economic landscape.

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