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Bank of Cyprus Invests €2 Million In 33East Investment Fund

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 26, 2024

The Bank of Cyprus has taken a significant step in supporting innovation and technology by becoming a founding financier in the 33East Investment Fund with a €2 million investment. This initiative is part of the Cyprus Capital Financing Fund, promoted by the Ministry of Finance in collaboration with the European Investment Bank (EIB). The Fund aims to bridge the financial gap in the Cypriot market, primarily investing in start-ups and innovative companies.

Strategic Move for Innovation

The creation of the Cyprus Capital Financing Fund marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s economic landscape. The Ministry of Finance initiated this project to foster growth in sectors that traditionally face funding challenges. The Fund, with a projected size of €37.5 million, will benefit from a substantial state contribution of €27 million, financed mainly through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, while the remaining funds will come from private investments.

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Collaboration with the European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank (EIB) plays a crucial role in overseeing the Fund’s operation, ensuring that investments are strategically directed towards high-potential ventures. Through a competitive selection process, 33East was chosen by the EIB to manage the Fund, highlighting the confidence placed in their expertise and vision.

Bank of Cyprus’s Commitment

The participation of the Bank of Cyprus in this fund exemplifies its commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the diversification of Cyprus’s economic model. Eliza Livadiotou, Executive Director of Finance at the Bank of Cyprus, expressed the bank’s enthusiasm for this initiative, highlighting its role in promoting sustainable development and economic diversification.

Supporting Innovation and Start-ups

The investment by the Bank of Cyprus is expected to catalyse growth in the start-up ecosystem, providing much-needed capital to innovative enterprises. Demetrios Zoppos, co-founder of 33East, welcomed the bank’s involvement, recognising it as a significant boost for technology and innovation in Cyprus.

Government and Industry Support

George Pantelis, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, emphasised the importance of the Fund and the role of the Bank of Cyprus in achieving a modern, knowledge-based economy. The collaboration between the public sector and financial institutions like the Bank of Cyprus is crucial for realising the vision of a dynamic and resilient economic environment in Cyprus.

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AI’s Economic Benefits Surpass Emissions Concerns According to IMF

by News Editor

April 27, 2025

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently highlighted the potential economic benefits of artificial intelligence (AI), projecting a global output boost of approximately 0.5% per year from 2025 to 2030. This growth is expected to surpass the environmental costs associated with higher carbon emissions from AI-driven data centers.

The report, showcased at the IMF’s spring meeting, emphasizes the need for equitable distribution of these economic gains while managing the adverse effects on our climate. The forecast indicates that AI’s contribution to GDP growth will outweigh the financial impacts of emissions, though it points out the necessity for policymakers and businesses to mitigate societal costs.

Energy Demands and Environmental Footprint

AI is set to escalate global electricity demand, potentially reaching 1,500 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030, mirroring the energy consumption of countries like India today.

The increasing demand for data processing capacity could result in higher greenhouse gas emissions, but the AI industry aims to offset these with advancements in renewable energy technologies.

AI: A Driver for Energy Efficiency?

Analysts suggest that AI could potentially reduce carbon emissions through improved energy efficiency, fostering advancements in low-carbon technologies across sectors such as power, food, and transport. Grantham Research Institute stresses the significance of strategic action from governments and industries to facilitate this transition.

The role of AI in the global economy continues to evolve, stirring debates not only about its economic potential but also its environmental impact.