Apple Revises App Store Policies in Accordance With EU Digital Markets Act

Introduction: Strategic Compliance Amid Regulatory Pressure

Apple Inc. has announced significant updates to its developer policies, aligning its practices with the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). These revisions, unveiled on Thursday and publicized via the Apple Developer news portal, arrive ahead of the June 26 deadline, avoiding potential fines and further regulatory penalties.

New Communication Guidelines and Payment Flexibility

The updated policies introduce Apple’s “anti-steering” rules, allowing EU-based app developers unprecedented flexibility. Developers are now permitted to direct customers to alternative payment options for subscriptions and in-app purchases outside of the App Store. This capability can be utilized across various channels—whether through websites, alternate app marketplaces, or integrated app features—eliminating the need for previously mandated warnings and restrictive text.

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Revamped Fee Structure: A Nuanced Approach

In addition to communication changes, Apple has implemented a more intricate fee framework. The former Core Technology Fee (CTF) has been replaced by a layered structure, featuring an initial acquisition fee of 2% and a store services fee varying from 5% to 13% based on the chosen tier. Notably, members of the Small Business Program will incur a fee of 10%. Tier 1 developers, with access to limited App Store services such as app reviews and fraud protection, contrast with Tier 2 developers who benefit from enhanced services including marketing tools and personalized app insights.

Core Technology Commission and Its Implications

Developers opting for alternative EU business terms will continue to pay the legacy CTF of €0.50 per app install after reaching one million downloads. Conversely, those operating under standard EU terms will be subject to the new Core Technology Commission (CTC) set at 5%, effective from January 1, 2026. Apple justified this move by underscoring the ongoing value delivered through its investments in development tools and technological innovation.

Industry Reaction and Competitive Concerns

The revised policies have sparked criticism in the industry. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, famed for his legal victory over Apple in the United States, described the changes on social media as an instance of “malicious compliance.” Sweeney contends that the new rules effectively tax and restrict competition among apps, thereby undermining fair market practices in both Europe and the United States.

Conclusion: Balancing Innovation With Regulation

Apple’s policy revisions underscore the tech giant’s strategic navigation through an increasingly regulated landscape. By reconfiguring its fee structure and broadening developers’ payment options, Apple aims to maintain its competitive edge while adhering to stringent EU mandates. As the digital marketplace evolves, these measures will likely serve as a blueprint for future adaptations by major industry players worldwide.

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Cyprus Foreclosure Reform Debate Intensifies Amid Rising Non-Performing Loans

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 18, 2026

Political Stakes And Foreclosure Regulation

Cypriot political parties are engaging in a high-stakes debate in parliament as they deliberate changes to the legal framework governing foreclosures ahead of the May parliamentary elections. The proposed shifts are aimed at curbing the rapid escalation in the value of non-performing loans, a trend that has sparked significant public and legislative concern. Confidential data from the Central Bank of Cyprus indicates that the nation has not yet moved away from its longstanding issues related to so-called “red loans.”

Non-Performing Loans: A Mounting Financial Challenge

Recent figures show that the value of distressed loans has continued to rise, surpassing €20 billion following transfers involving banks and credit recovery companies. This level exceeds the approximately €15 billion recorded during the economic crisis period. Central Bank data indicates that after loan sales, credit recovery firms now manage portfolios totaling €19.7 billion, of which €18.5 billion are classified as non-performing. About 87% of these loans are considered terminated, while the firms acquired 141,478 loans for €3.2 billion, roughly 80% below their original value.

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Credit Recovery Companies: Overshooting Investment Returns

By June, credit recovery companies had recovered €5.7 billion through a combination of cash repayments, judicial asset auctions and property-for-debt exchanges. Cash repayments accounted for €3.6 billion, judicial recoveries contributed €619 million, and property swaps added €1.5 billion. These recoveries exceeded the original purchase cost of many loan portfolios while overall balances continued to increase due to accrued interest, a development that remains a concern for policymakers.

Bank Portfolios And The Impact On Financial Stability

Data from the State Guarantee Fund for Deposits and Loans shows that 77,561 loans valued at €7.5 billion were transferred, leaving a remaining balance of €5.7 billion by June 2025, of which €5 billion are non-performing. Within the banking sector, non-performing loans totaled €1.45 billion across 24,736 accounts as of last June. Since December 2024, these figures have improved by approximately €86 million due to repayments and asset recoveries. The reduction in problematic loans has lowered bank exposure compared with levels recorded during the 2013 crisis.

Legislative Proposals And Government Considerations

Political leaders argue that adjustments to foreclosure procedures can be introduced without undermining banking stability. Parliament’s Economic Committee is scheduled to begin discussions on March 9, with an estimated 20 to 30 legislative proposals currently pending from multiple parties. While the Ministry of Finance has not announced immediate legislative action, officials are evaluating the potential reintroduction of elements of the Rent-Versus-Rate plan for vulnerable borrowers, subject to fiscal impact assessments.

Advocacy From AKEL And Environmental Groups

Proposals supported by the AKEL party and several civil organizations focus on strengthening legal protections for borrowers. Among the suggested measures is restoring the right to seek judicial relief to delay foreclosures in cases involving disputed charges or alleged abusive contract clauses. AKEL representative Aristos Damianou criticized the pace of foreclosure proceedings and warned of risks to primary residences and small businesses.

Proposals Targeting Guarantors And Foreclosure Processes

The Democratic Rally party has introduced a proposal aimed at limiting guarantor liability during foreclosure procedures. Under the draft measure, if a property is auctioned or repossessed, the guarantor’s responsibility would be capped at the original loan amount adjusted by recovered sums. The proposal also requires that enforcement actions against guarantors be suspended until a court ruling is issued if the borrower formally disputes the debt.

Revisions Proposed By The Democratic Party of Cyprus

The Democratic Party is also preparing new legislative measures to be introduced on Thursday. Party leader Mario Karogian outlined plans to suspend the foreclosures of primary residences valued up to €350,000 until the end of the year, allowing time to address legislative gaps. Additional proposals include broadening the powers of the Financial Ombudsperson to make binding decisions on disputes up to €50,000, enforcing the Central Bank’s code of conduct, and ensuring strict adherence to refinancing guidelines for first residences.

Outlook And Strategic Implications

The range of proposals reflects an ongoing effort to balance financial system stability with stronger consumer protections. Decisions made in the coming months are expected to shape the regulatory environment for foreclosures and influence broader confidence in Cyprus’ financial sector and economic outlook.

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