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New Study Reveals The Moon Is Older Than Previously Believed

The Moon may be significantly older than once thought, with its age now estimated to be between 4.43 and 4.53 billion years—up to 180 million years older than earlier calculations, according to a new study published in Nature and cited by DPA.

Key Insights From The Study

  • Reevaluation of Rock Samples: The study, conducted by researchers from the US, France, and Germany, suggests that previous interpretations of Moon rock samples were flawed. The samples, primarily collected during the Apollo missions, reflect the cooling of magma on the lunar surface, not the Moon’s initial formation.
  • Early Formation Process: Shortly after Earth’s formation about 4.5 billion years ago, a celestial collision with a planet-sized object named Theia ejected molten rock and debris into space. This material eventually coalesced to form the Moon. The new analysis suggests that tidal forces exerted by Earth on the Moon’s elliptical orbit caused the Moon’s interior to superheat, pushing magma to the surface.
  • Discovery of Ancient Crystals: The presence of zircon crystals in lunar rock samples further supports the claim that the Moon’s age is older than previously believed. These crystals predate the cooling of the Moon’s surface, offering evidence that the natural satellite’s formation occurred earlier than past estimates.

Revised Age Of The Moon

The study’s authors, Francis Nimmo, Torsten Klein, and Alessandro Morbidelli, argue that the Moon’s age should be reconsidered based on these findings. Their research aligns with dynamic models of planetary formation within the Solar System, supporting the idea that the Moon’s development occurred earlier and more rapidly than previously assumed.

Historical Context

Prior to this study, the Moon’s age was estimated at around 4.35 billion years, a figure derived from the cooling ages of surface rocks collected during the Apollo missions. However, the discovery of older zircon crystals in lunar rocks challenged this timeline, prompting further analysis.

Significance of the Findings

These new insights offer a deeper understanding of the early stages of planetary formation and the complex processes that shaped the Earth-Moon system. By pushing back the timeline of the Moon’s formation, scientists can better model the development of celestial bodies in the early Solar System.

This revelation not only redefines the Moon’s place in the timeline of the cosmos but also underscores the importance of continued analysis of lunar samples as a means to unlock the secrets of our planetary origins.

Nike Prepares For A Major Shift Amid Competitive Pressures

Nike is bracing for significant changes as it aims to reclaim market dominance amid growing competition. On Thursday, the Beaverton, Oregon-based sportswear giant offered a cautious outlook, causing its stock to erase early gains despite posting stronger-than-expected quarterly results, according to Reuters.

Key Developments

  • Revenue Projections: Nike forecasts a double-digit revenue decline for the third quarter as it faces ongoing market pressures.
  • Earnings Beat Expectations: The company reported earnings per share of 78 cents, outperforming analyst estimates of 63 cents, as compiled by LSEG.
  • Revenue Decline: Net revenue for the second quarter dropped 7.7% to $12.35 billion, better than the anticipated 9.41% decline, thanks to strong demand for updated versions of its athletic shoes.
  • Current Quarter Forecast: Analysts expect Nike’s revenue to fall 7.65% to $11.48 billion in the current quarter, according to LSEG data.
  • Stock Volatility: Nike’s shares initially surged 11% following the earnings report but pared gains to close up just 0.3% after executives lowered future projections. Year-to-date, Nike’s stock price has plummeted nearly 30%.

Leadership Perspective

Newly appointed CEO Elliott Hill acknowledged the challenges ahead, warning of “short-term pain” as the company embarks on its turnaround strategy. Hill, who began his career at Nike as an intern in 1988, emphasized the need to refocus on core sports-related products and limit reliance on promotions and discounts.

“We’ve become over-promoted,” Hill stated during his first earnings call as CEO. “The level of discounting not only affects our brand, but it also hurts the overall market and the profits of our partners.”

Hill’s plan centers on revamping Nike’s partnerships with retailers, limiting promotions, and reinvesting in key markets. Rebuilding on-the-ground teams in major cities and countries will be a crucial part of this strategy, as Hill believes they play a vital role in fostering consumer connections.

Product Strategy

With rivals rolling out more comfortable, cushioned footwear, Nike aims to strengthen its competitive edge. The company plans to channel resources into the development of new products like the Air Max 95 and reinforce its iconic franchises, including Jordans and Pegasus. This approach seeks to maintain brand relevance and drive consumer interest.

Looking Ahead

Nike’s path to recovery will require careful execution of Hill’s strategy to restore profitability, limit over-discounting, and re-establish consumer loyalty. With its renewed focus on sports products, stronger partnerships with retailers, and strategic investment in local teams, the company aims to reclaim its position as a market leader in the highly competitive sportswear industry.

Cyprus Pushes Forward In Schengen Accession: Key Developments And Next Steps

Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos chaired a ministerial meeting to review Cyprus’ progress toward joining the Schengen area. Attended by senior officials, including Ministers of the Interior, Justice, and Transport, as well as Deputy Ministers for Immigration, Social Welfare, and Tourism, the meeting aimed to assess the implementation of the European Commission’s recommendations.

Foreign Minister Kombos highlighted the steps taken to meet EU criteria and reaffirmed Cyprus’ commitment to effective border management. In his message to newly appointed EU Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner, Kombos emphasized Cyprus’ dedication to Schengen membership.

A key development was the creation of a Schengen Task Force within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance coordination between ministries and responsible services.

The meeting focused on six critical areas of compliance: personal data protection, police cooperation, external border control, returns, visas, and the Schengen Information System (SIS). Progress was reviewed, and challenges requiring immediate attention were identified.

To accelerate progress, a roadmap was established with a monitoring mechanism to track implementation. Ministries and deputy ministries were instructed to resolve outstanding issues in the coming weeks, with a follow-up review meeting scheduled for the end of February.

Lumen Orbit: The Start-Up Aiming To Transform Space Into The Next Frontier For Data Centers

In an industry that thrives on bold innovation, Lumen Orbit is already making waves. Launched earlier this year by three satellite engineers, the Redmond, Washington-based start-up is on a mission to revolutionize space internet through optimized satellite design.

Backed By Big-Name Investors

Venture capitalists are taking notice. This week, Lumen Orbit secured an $11 million seed round, boosting the company’s valuation to an impressive $40 million, according to TechCrunch. High-profile investors such as NFX and Soma Capital are already on board, with Andreessen Horowitz and Sequoia reportedly showing interest as well. Industry insiders hint that plans for a new funding round are already in motion, signaling strong confidence in Lumen Orbit’s potential.

A Vision For Space-Based Data Centers

So, what’s driving all this excitement? Lumen Orbit’s ambitious goal is to relocate data centers to orbiting satellites in space. This vision places the company at the heart of the “new space economy” — an emerging sector where governments and private enterprises explore the possibilities of establishing data hubs beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

One notable example of this trend is ASCEND (Advanced Space Cloud for European Data Sovereignty and Net Zero Emissions), a project spearheaded by Thales Alenia Space as part of the European Commission’s Horizon Europe programmes. The initiative aims to demonstrate the technical feasibility and environmental benefits of space-based data centers.

The Case For Space-Based Data Centers

Why send data centers to space? The rationale is compelling. On Earth, data centers require substantial amounts of land and water to maintain optimal cooling for their vast hardware systems. Space, however, offers infinite real estate and naturally low temperatures, eliminating two major resource constraints.

Solar energy would power these orbiting hubs, while batteries store excess energy to cover periods without direct sunlight. This approach has the potential to drastically reduce operational costs while making data centers more sustainable. Lumen Orbit’s satellite hubs could feasibly support both computing operations and data transmissions back to Earth.

What’s Already Up There?

While the concept may seem futuristic, some groundwork has already been laid. Projects like the Stacked Miniaturized and Radiation Tolerant Intelligent Electronics (SMARTIE) facility are early indicators of what’s possible. SMARTIE’s system uses “tiles” to achieve over 300 gigaflops of computing power per unit. These satellites, equipped with BAE Systems’ RAD750 single-board computers, process sensor data and manage artificial intelligence-related tasks in space.

These developments illustrate that the leap to space-based data centers isn’t as far-fetched as it may seem. They mark the initial steps toward a larger shift in how and where we handle large-scale computing needs.

The Cost Advantage

A key driver of Lumen Orbit’s business case is cost reduction. According to co-founder Philipp Johnston, a Harvard and Columbia graduate, shifting data centers to space could drastically lower operational expenses. “Instead of paying $140 million for electricity, you can pay $10 million for a launch and solar,” Johnston explained.

Johnston’s co-founders also bring impressive credentials to the table. Chief Technology Officer Ezra Fielden previously worked at Airbus and contributed to NASA’s research efforts. Adi Oltean, another co-founder, was a principal software engineer at SpaceX, where he worked on Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite internet technology. Together, the trio’s combined expertise provides Lumen Orbit with a formidable foundation for success.

The Road Ahead

Though the concept of space-based data centers may sound like the stuff of science fiction, the business logic is undeniable. As demand for efficient and sustainable data processing grows, Lumen Orbit’s proposal to leverage space as a new frontier for data operations is attracting investors and sparking industry-wide interest.

With deep-pocketed backers and a bold vision, Lumen Orbit is well-positioned to capitalize on a burgeoning trend. If successful, the company’s satellites could usher in a new era of data management, bringing faster speeds, lower costs, and greener solutions to an increasingly data-driven world.

California’s Bold Move: EPA Approves Phase-Out of Gas-Powered Cars by 2035

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted California the authority to enforce a groundbreaking regulation banning the sale of most new gasoline- and diesel-powered cars and light trucks starting in 2035. This decision, rooted in California’s unique ability to set stricter emissions standards under the Clean Air Act, signals a pivotal shift toward zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in the nation’s most populous state.

California’s journey toward this ambitious goal began in 2022 when the state outlined its multi-year strategy to reduce fossil fuel vehicle sales. The plan includes a gradual phase-out, culminating in a complete ban by 2035. Automakers have had mixed reactions to the policy. While many have acknowledged California’s right to impose stricter standards and have pledged to scale down the production of fossil fuel vehicles, they have also sought more time to comply. Some automakers have lobbied for federal intervention, calling for relief from the aggressive timelines.

“We anticipate that President Trump’s administration will attempt to revoke this waiver in 2025,” said John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. His statement reflects the ongoing political tug-of-war surrounding California’s authority to enforce its own emissions standards, a power that has been repeatedly challenged in recent years.

The Roadmap To 2035: Milestones Along The Way

California’s transition will not happen overnight. Starting in 2026, the state will require that 35% of new vehicle sales be zero-emission vehicles, which include electric and hydrogen-powered models. By 2030, that percentage will rise to 68%, ultimately reaching 100% by 2035. Notably, plug-in hybrid vehicles will still be permitted to account for up to 20% of total sales, provided they have a minimum electric range of 50 miles.

Zero-emission vehicles are already making inroads in the market. In the third quarter of this year, ZEVs accounted for 26.4% of all new vehicle sales in California—a clear sign that consumer adoption is accelerating.

Political Pushback: Will History Repeat Itself?

While the Biden administration’s EPA has given California the green light to move forward with its ZEV ambitions, history suggests that the road ahead may be bumpy. During President Trump’s previous administration, California’s waiver to enforce its own emissions standards was revoked in 2019. It took the Biden administration’s EPA three years to reinstate it, following a lawsuit filed by 23 states against the federal government. If the waiver is challenged again, experts believe it could take another protracted legal battle to resolve.

Revoking the waiver would not be a simple task. The previous effort to rescind it took 18 months, underscoring the complexity and legal scrutiny involved in reversing the policy. Still, industry insiders expect renewed efforts to overturn the waiver if the political landscape shifts in 2025.

Ripple Effects Beyond California

California’s influence extends beyond its borders. Sixteen other states and the District of Columbia have adopted elements of California’s emissions standards, with many of them pledging to phase out gas-powered cars as well. This network of aligned states amplifies the impact of California’s policy, creating a ripple effect that could reshape the U.S. auto market.

With the 2035 deadline fast approaching, the stage is set for a historic transition in the automotive industry. California’s zero-emission vehicle mandate not only aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also positions the state as a leader in the global race for cleaner, greener transportation.

Apple Explores AI Integration In China With Tencent And ByteDance

Apple is reportedly in preliminary discussions with Chinese tech giants Tencent and ByteDance to incorporate their artificial intelligence (AI) models into iPhones sold in China, according to sources familiar with the matter. The move reflects Apple’s efforts to navigate China’s stringent AI regulations and maintain its foothold in a competitive market.

Why Apple Needs Local AI Partners

Apple’s integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its Siri voice assistant has already begun in other regions, enabling users to leverage the chatbot’s capabilities for tasks like photo analysis and document management. However, with ChatGPT unavailable in China due to regulatory restrictions, Apple must seek local partnerships to bring similar features to its Chinese customer base. Generative AI services in China require government approval before public release, prompting Apple to collaborate with local firms that have the necessary compliance and operational capabilities.

Talks With Tencent and ByteDance

Apple’s discussions with Tencent and ByteDance are still in their early stages, according to sources who declined to be named. Neither Apple nor Tencent has commented on the matter, while ByteDance also declined to provide a statement.

Partnering with Tencent or ByteDance could provide Apple with access to well-established AI models such as Tencent’s Hunyuan and ByteDance’s Doubao. This would allow Apple to introduce enhanced AI functionalities in iPhones sold in China, potentially mitigating the competitive threat posed by local smartphone brands like Huawei.

Growing Competition In China’s AI Race

China’s AI landscape is rapidly evolving, with major tech companies and startups launching large language models (LLMs) to capture market share. Baidu’s Ernie model, Tencent’s Hunyuan, and ByteDance’s Doubao are prominent examples of China’s growing AI capabilities. Apple’s reported talks with Baidu on using its Ernie AI model faced technical hurdles, including disagreements over the use of iPhone user data to train AI models, according to The Information.

The fierce competition from domestic brands like Huawei has intensified Apple’s need to stay ahead. Huawei’s re-entry into the premium smartphone market with the Mate 70 series, featuring AI capabilities driven by its proprietary LLM, has put pressure on Apple. Huawei’s return to form saw its sales surge 42% in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the previous year, while Apple’s smartphone sales in China fell 0.3% during the same period, according to research firm IDC. Apple’s market share briefly dropped out of China’s top five smartphone vendors before recovering.

Implications Of The Partnership

If Apple successfully partners with Tencent, ByteDance, or another local player, it could introduce AI-powered features in its iPhones that align with local regulatory standards. Such a move would enhance Apple’s value proposition in China, where consumers are increasingly drawn to devices with advanced AI capabilities.

The integration of local AI models could also signal a broader shift in Apple’s strategy in China. By relying on local AI partners, Apple could position itself as more adaptable to local market demands and regulatory requirements. This approach might also mitigate privacy concerns, as using domestically developed AI models could be seen as more aligned with China’s data sovereignty policies.

Looking Ahead

Apple’s pursuit of AI partnerships with Tencent, ByteDance, and possibly Baidu reflects the strategic importance of China’s smartphone market. With Huawei’s resurgence and the rapid evolution of China’s AI sector, Apple’s ability to deliver AI-powered features tailored to local consumer preferences will be critical.

The changes could reshape Apple’s competitive position in the world’s largest smartphone market. The new AI features may offer a pathway for Apple to regain market share and counter the rising influence of Chinese smartphone brands, particularly Huawei. All eyes will be on Apple as it navigates the regulatory landscape and seeks to solidify its presence in China’s AI-driven future.

Luxury Brands Embrace Cryptocurrency Payments As Bitcoin Soars

The rising value of Bitcoin has drawn the attention of high-end fashion brands and retailers, with many considering the adoption of cryptocurrency as a payment method to tap into new wealth and foster loyalty with crypto investors.

Previously, only a few luxury brands like LVMH, Hublot, Tag Heuer, and Kering-owned Gucci and Balenciaga dabbled with crypto payments. However, recent developments have sparked greater interest. French luxury department store Printemps has teamed up with Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, and French fintech company Lyzi to accept cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, in its French stores. This makes Printemps the first European department store to offer such a service. As Bitcoin’s value increases, other brands are now following suit.

S.T. Dupont, a luxury lighter and pen maker, has also announced plans to accept crypto payments in two Paris stores before the holidays. In the luxury experiences space, Virgin Voyages began offering its first product accepting Bitcoin this month – a $120,000 annual pass for up to a year of sailing on its cruise ships.

While regulators have long warned that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are high-risk assets, with limited real-world uses and high volatility, support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has fueled optimism. Analysts suggest that blockchain innovation in financial markets could increase the predictability for cryptocurrencies, enhancing their appeal.

Seeking Innovative Branding

Luxury brands have long sought to appeal to affluent shoppers from the tech industry, with stores in upscale Silicon Valley malls and products like the Hermes Apple Watch – combining the classic design of the French Birkin bag maker with Apple’s connected technology.

Now, the new wealth generated by Bitcoin’s surge – topping $107,000 on Monday – comes at a time when the luxury industry faces its biggest slump in years. Offering cryptocurrency payments is seen as a way to brand these companies as innovative rather than outdated, catering to a younger, tech-savvy audience.

However, for most retailers, the payment option remains largely symbolic. The funds are usually reconverted into euros or dollars to offset the risks of volatility. For many shoppers, platforms like PayPal or Venmo have already addressed payment solutions. Nevertheless, for Bitcoin investors, purchasing luxury goods, such as designer handbags or high-end watches, presents an attractive way to diversify their portfolios.

In a sign of increasing interest, Balenciaga recently issued a leather cardholder designed to hold “Stax” hardware from crypto wallet company Ledger. 

Reaching Younger Clientele

Kering’s Gregory Boutte, chief client and digital officer, has highlighted the group’s strategy as “test and learn” rather than “wait and see,” emphasizing new technology’s importance in reaching younger and Asian clientele. Since 2022, Kering’s star label, Gucci, has accepted 10 different cryptocurrencies for most purchases in the United States.

Printemps is now planning to extend its crypto payments service to New York City, where it will open a multibrand retailer in the Wall Street district in March.

Bitcoin’s rise in 2021 sparked initial interest in cryptocurrency payments from luxury brands. Tag Heuer, headed by LVMH heir Frederic Arnault, and Gucci began accepting cryptocurrencies for some purchases in the U.S. in the following year.

Nearly 50% of New Cars In The EU In 2023 Are Hybrids Or Electric

In 2023, approximately 10.7 million new cars were registered in the EU, with nearly 50% of them being either hybrid or fully electric vehicles. Among these, the largest proportion consisted of cars with internal combustion engines (34.5%), followed by hybrid vehicles (21.1%), fully electric cars (14.5%), and diesel-powered cars (14.3%). Over the past decade (2013-2023), electric vehicles have seen significant growth, with the combined share of hybrids and electric vehicles now nearly equal to that of internal combustion engine cars – 48.3% compared to 48.8%, according to Eurostat data.

In 2023, nine EU countries will see the share of new cars that are not powered solely by an internal combustion engine exceed 50%. Finland leads with 78% of new cars being hybrid or electric (44% hybrid, 34% electric), followed by Sweden at 69% (30% hybrid, 39% electric) and the Netherlands at 68% (37% hybrid, 31% electric). On the other hand, Bulgaria had the lowest share at just 7%, followed by the Czech Republic (20%) and Croatia (28%).

Cyprus falls behind many EU countries in terms of the share of hybrid and electric vehicles. In 2023, the proportion of new cars in Cyprus that are hybrid or electric is around 20%, placing it among the countries with lower adoption rates compared to EU leaders like Finland, Sweden, and the Netherlands.

Cyprus Central Bank Reveals October 2024 Interest Rate Trends

The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) published detailed figures on Monday regarding interest rates at Monetary Financial Institutions across the island for October 2024. The data highlights significant trends in mortgage loans, business loans, and deposit rates.

Mortgage Loan Rates

In October 2024, the average interest rate for new housing loans with floating rates and an initial fixed period of up to one year increased slightly to 4.55%, up from 4.49% in September. In contrast, the eurozone saw a slight decline, with the average rate dropping to 4.37%.

Among local banks, Bank of Cyprus Public Company Ltd had the highest rate at 5.20%, while Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd offered the lowest at 3.34%, a rise from 2.90% the previous month.

Hellenic Bank Public Company Ltd reduced its rate to 3.68% from 4.12%. Meanwhile, Ancoria Bank Ltd’s rate increased slightly to 4.39%, up from 4.28%, and Eurobank Cyprus Ltd saw its rate rise to 5.11% from 4.99%.

The overall average rate for housing loans, including renegotiations, climbed to 4.62% in October, up from 4.53% in September, while the eurozone average dropped to 4.37% from 4.59%.

Business Loan Trends

Interest rates for new business loans of up to €1 million with floating rates and an initial fixed period of up to one year saw a modest decline to 5.58% in October, down from 5.62% in September.

Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd experienced the most significant increase, with its rate rising to 9.04% from 6.35%, the highest among local banks. Ancoria Bank Ltd offered the lowest rate at 4.80%, down from 5.02%.

Other banks showed stability or slight changes. Bank of Cyprus maintained its rate at 5.78%, and Hellenic Bank’s rate edged up to 4.94%, from 4.92%.

The overall average for new business loans, including renegotiations, dropped to 5.45% in October, down from 5.59% in September. In the eurozone, the average rate also decreased to 4.83%, from 5.03%.

A more notable decline was observed in the rates for business loans exceeding €1 million, with the average falling to 4.72% in October, down from 5.26% in September. The eurozone followed this trend, with rates decreasing to 4.58% from 4.67%.

Eurobank Cyprus Ltd reported the highest rate for loans over €1 million at 5.24%, while the National Bank of Greece (Cyprus) Ltd offered the lowest rate at 4.07%.

As for new contracts between Cypriot banks, October saw the following adjustments: Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd lowered its rate to 5.28% from 5.43%, National Bank of Greece (Cyprus) dropped to 4.07% from 5.59%, Hellenic Bank decreased to 5.21% from 5.53%, Eurobank Cyprus Ltd fell to 5.24% from 5.40%, Cyprus Development Bank decreased to 4.80% from 5.16% (in August), and Bank of Cyprus reduced its rate to 5.19% from 5.32%.

Fixed-Term Deposit Rates

The average interest rate for new fixed-term deposits up to one year for households in Cyprus declined to 1.76% in October, from 1.98% in September. In comparison, the eurozone saw a drop to 2.74%, down from 2.97%.

The National Bank of Greece (Cyprus) recorded the highest rate at 2.48%, while the Bank of Cyprus had the lowest rate at 1.32%, a slight increase from 1.19%.

Eurobank Cyprus Ltd saw the largest decrease, with its rate falling to 2.07% from 2.83%.

For non-financial corporations, the average rate on fixed-term deposits up to one year rose to 2.19%, up from 2.14% in September. The eurozone average remained considerably higher at 3.06%, down from 3.28%.

Astrobank Public Co Ltd reported the most significant rise, with its rate increasing to 3.11% from 2.45%. In contrast, the Housing Finance Corporation had the lowest rate at 1.01%, a decrease from 1.74%.

Cyprus Labour Market Reaches New Heights: Best Performance In 15 Years

Cyprus’ labour market is experiencing its most remarkable performance in 15 years, with unprecedented gains in job creation, employment growth, unemployment reduction, and wage increases. The driving force behind this achievement is a combination of targeted government initiatives and a resilient economy, according to Minister of Labour and Social Insurance, Yiannis Panayiotou.

Speaking at a press conference, Panayiotou attributed the success to a strategy focused on strengthening the workforce. “These positive developments lay a strong foundation for the future of the Cypriot economy,” he said.

By The Numbers: Record-Breaking Growth

Data from the Cyprus Statistical Service shows new job openings surged by 15.4% in 2024, adding 14,339 positions — 3.2% of the total workforce. The number of employees grew by 1.4%, rising from 459,196 in 2023 to 465,459 in 2024. The employment rate now stands at an impressive 79.8%, which Panayiotou highlighted as “exceptionally high” for a European country.

The hotel and construction sectors drove much of this growth, reflecting Cyprus’ expanding tourism and infrastructure development.

Unemployment At Record Lows

Unemployment saw a steep decline, with the total number of unemployed dropping by 14.7%, from 29,661 in 2023 to 25,312 in 2024. The unemployment rate fell from 5.8% to 5.0%, a figure Panayiotou described as a sign of “full employment conditions.”

The number of registered unemployed fell by 14.3%, with 1,824 fewer people on the unemployment register. Long-term unemployment (six to twelve months) also declined by 29.7%, from 1,884 to 1,325.

Wage Growth Outpaces Expectations

Workers in Cyprus are earning more, too. Labour costs per hour worked rose by 4.5%, while average monthly earnings climbed by 5.3%, raising the average wage from €2,270 to €2,390.

Panayiotou underscored that wage increases are part of a broader push to create a “fairer and more inclusive economy,” aligned with government efforts to support workers across all sectors.

Strategic Moves For A Dynamic Labour Market

The Ministry of Labour is rolling out a series of employment support initiatives with a total budget of €15 million. These initiatives aim to connect the unemployed with job opportunities, promote youth employment, support older workers, increase women’s participation in the workforce, and create pathways for vulnerable groups.

The record-breaking performance of Cyprus’ labour market signals the growth of a labour force ready to meet the demands of a modern, globally connected economy. For investors, it highlights Cyprus’ stability as a business-friendly environment with a strong supply of skilled labour.

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