The President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulidis, recently underscored the critical link between positive economic indicators and elevated social expenditures during a high-level meeting at the Presidential Palace. Attended by representatives from the Cyprus Federation of Organizations of People with Disabilities (ΚΥΣΟΑ), the Cyprus Federation of Associations of Patients (ΟΣΑΚ), and the Third Age Observatory, the discussions highlighted how a thriving economy can foster comprehensive social support programs.

Economic Resilience Fuels Public Investments

According to government plans, social expenditure is expected to increase in 2024 and 2025, with a larger expansion projected for 2026. Officials said the fiscal framework includes a planned 6% rise in social spending as part of broader budget priorities. The government says the increase is supported by improved economic indicators and aims to reinforce public support systems.

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Collaborative Governance With Social Partners

President Christodoulidis emphasized that the government treats social organizations as strategic partners. The administration’s policies and initiatives are built on an ongoing dialogue with these community stakeholders, ensuring that every measure is aligned with the pressing needs and priorities of the citizens. This collaborative approach underscores the state’s commitment to societal well‐being and its determination to address the minimum obligations owed to its populace.

Strategic Measures for Social Cohesion

Beyond planned budget increases, the government said it is evaluating additional targeted measures aimed at strengthening social cohesion and improving support for vulnerable populations. Officials argue that combining fiscal stability with social investment remains central to Cyprus’ broader economic and social policy strategy.

Record Contribution To GDP

Cyprus’ tourism sector increased its contribution to national GDP to 14% in 2025, up from 13.1% a year earlier, according to official figures. Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis said the industry continued to play a central role in supporting overall economic growth.

Surging Tourist Arrivals And Revenue

The annual report reveals that tourist arrivals surpassed 4.5 million for the first time, marking a 12.2% year-on-year increase and a 41.6% jump over three years. Simultaneously, revenues saw a sharp rise, climbing 15.3% year-on-year and 51.1% over the three-year span to reach an impressive €9.9 billion. Enhanced visitor spending was also evident with average per visitor expenditure increasing to €822 and daily spending up 7.2% to €99.5.

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Strength Amid Global Challenges

The average length of stay declined by about 4% to 8.27 days. Despite shorter visits, overall performance remained strong, supported by higher visitor numbers and spending. Projections indicate that overnight stays could reach 18.5 million, up 3.3% from 2024. Officials say tourism performance helped support estimated economic growth of 3.75% in 2025, above the eurozone average.

Strategic Investments And Future Outlook

Authorities launched 13 incentive schemes in 2025, including four supported through the Recovery and Resilience Plan, mobilizing close to €20 million in investment. Funding focused on upgrading accommodation facilities, restaurants, and traditional retail businesses, while also supporting projects in rural and coastal areas. Additional initiatives targeted health and wellness tourism, diving certification, and digital transition projects aimed at improving competitiveness.

Preparing For A Strategic 2026

Looking ahead, Cyprus expects tourism-related activity to increase further during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026. Officials estimate that more than 30,000 conference participants will visit the country as part of approximately 250 scheduled events. New legislative proposals related to diving tourism and hospitality operations are also under preparation, alongside cooperation agreements with Israel and Saudi Arabia aimed at strengthening long-term tourism partnerships.

Setting A Focused Agenda

During the inaugural General Affairs Council on Cohesion Policy under the Cyprus EU Presidency, Finance Minister Makis Keravnos reinforced the pivotal role of cohesion policy in enhancing competitiveness and bolstering economic resilience across the European Union. In Brussels, Minister Keravnos highlighted the significance of Cyprus’ six-month tenure at the helm of the Council, marking a defining moment for strategic policy reform.

Cohesion Policy And Strategic Autonomy

Addressing colleagues upon his arrival, Keravnos stated, “It is a great pleasure for me to chair today’s meeting on Cohesion Policy, which is the first since Cyprus took over the Presidency.” He emphasized that an autonomous Union, open to the world, is built on the foundation of competitiveness and strategic economic resilience. This approach not only underscores the value of cohesion policy in the European agenda but also directly links it to the Union’s broader objectives of strategic autonomy.

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Key Agenda Items And Future Directions

The Council’s discussions will center on two principal items. The first is the adoption of conclusions regarding cities and functional urban areas, which are seen as critical engines for economic, social, and territorial cohesion. The second focuses on the mid-term review of cohesion policy for the 2021-2027 programming period. This review aims to design stronger incentive frameworks and introduce greater flexibility for the next cycle, thereby ensuring closer alignment with the EU’s strategic priorities in a shifting economic and geopolitical landscape.

Toward An Enhanced Policy Framework

Experts anticipate that the meeting will further delve into bolstering the administrative and operational capacities of member states and regions. Additional discussions are expected to highlight targeted support for regions facing specific geographical and development challenges, including the EU’s eastern border areas. These measures aim to forge a more robust and agile policy framework, better equipped to navigate the uncertainties of the current global environment.

Regulatory Alert

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has issued a stern warning to investors regarding four online platforms that operate without the necessary authorisation under Cypriot law. The websites deumarket.com, crowd-base.com, velorato.com, and xt-blimited.com have been identified as unlicensed entities that are not permitted to provide investment services or perform investment activities in Cyprus.

Implications Of Operating Without Licence

CySEC emphasized that the absence of proper licensing implies these platforms do not adhere to the stringent regulatory requirements designed to protect investors. Operating without authorisation not only breaches legal standards but also exposes investors to heightened risk due to the lack of regulatory oversight and consumer safeguards.

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Guidance For Cautious Investment Decisions

Investors are advised to exercise extreme caution when considering transactions on these sites. To verify the legitimacy of investment service providers, CySEC urges the public to consult its official website. This resource provides up-to-date information on which entities are duly licensed, ensuring that potential investors can make informed decisions.

Commitment To Investor Protection

This regulatory effort underscores CySEC’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the investment services landscape in Cyprus. By actively identifying and warning against unlicensed entities, CySEC reinforces market standards and bolsters investor confidence in the financial ecosystem.

Overview Of Cyprus CPI Performance

Cyprus’ Harmonised Consumer Price Index (HCPI) rose 1.2% in January 2026 compared with the same month a year earlier, according to data released by the Statistical Service of Cyprus. The figures indicate moderate price growth following higher inflation levels recorded in early 2025.

Yearly And Monthly Trends In Consumer Prices

On an annual basis, the largest price increases were recorded in Recreation, Sports and Culture (+5.8%), Restaurants and Accommodation Services (+4.8%), and Educational Services (+3.4%). Clothing and Footwear posted the steepest decline, falling 6.2% year over year. Every month, consumer prices decreased by 0.3% compared with December 2025. Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages rose 3.7% month over month, while Clothing and Footwear fell 12.1%.

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Sectoral And Economic Category Analysis

Examining economic categories on an annual basis reveals that Services led with a 4.3% increase, while Energy showed the most significant decline at -6.5%. Moreover, a month-over-month review indicated a 3.7% reduction in Non-Energy Industrial Products, underscoring the varied dynamics across different sectors.

Eurostat Insights And Comparative European Performance

Eurostat data shows Cyprus recorded one of the lowest annual inflation rates in the European Union in January 2026, at 1.2%, down from 2.9% a year earlier. Across the eurozone, annual inflation stood at 1.7%, while core inflation, excluding energy and food, reached 2.2%. Inflation across the wider EU slowed to 2%, compared with 2.3% in December.

International Variations And Sector Contributions

Among EU member states, France (0.4%), Denmark (0.6%), Finland (1%), and Italy (1%) reported the lowest inflation rates. Higher readings were recorded in Romania (8.5%), Slovakia (4.3%), and Estonia (3.8%). Compared with December 2025, inflation declined in 23 EU countries, remained unchanged in one, and increased in three. Within the eurozone, Services made the largest contribution to annual inflation, adding 1.45 percentage points, followed by Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco at 0.51 points. Energy made a negative contribution of -0.39 points.

Early Warning Strike As A Strategic Response

Employees at the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (AHK) said they will hold a two-hour early warning strike on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. The action follows ongoing disputes related to labor issues and concerns over how the country’s energy sector is being managed.

Rising Pressure In The Energy Sector

Union representatives say the decision comes amid broader challenges facing the energy market, including electricity supply pressures, rising energy costs, and technical disruptions affecting rooftop photovoltaic systems. They also pointed to wider infrastructure concerns, including water management issues. The unions argue that these challenges highlight the need for stronger long-term planning and clearer policy direction.

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Operational Impact And Broader Implications

The planned strike is expected to be limited in duration but could draw attention to operational pressures within the Electricity Authority. The organization is facing increasing demands as energy prices remain volatile and infrastructure modernization continues. Labor representatives say unresolved workplace issues are adding to operational strain, while management has yet to publicly detail how the strike may affect services.

Defending The Public Interest And Organizational Stability

Union officials say the action is intended to highlight both employee concerns and broader questions about energy sector stability. They maintain that resolving labor disputes and improving strategic planning are essential for maintaining reliable energy services.

Industry observers note that the situation reflects wider challenges facing energy providers across Europe, where rising costs, energy transition goals, and infrastructure demands are reshaping the sector.

Outlook

The strike adds to ongoing discussions about the future direction of Cyprus’ energy system as policymakers and stakeholders weigh reforms aimed at improving efficiency, affordability, and long-term energy security.

Market Overview

The Cyprus banking sector is witnessing a notable shift as annual loan growth edges upward to 11.2%, despite a significant contraction in overall deposit levels. The latest report from the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) underscores these contrasting trends, signaling a dynamic market environment.

Declining Deposits

According to the CBC’s most recent MFIs deposits and loans statistics, total deposits plunged by €851.2 million in January 2026, reversing the net increase of €877.1 million recorded in December 2025. This decline reflects a decreasing momentum in deposit accumulation, with an annual growth rate dropping from 6.5% to 5.3%. The outstanding deposits now stand at €56.9 billion, with Cyprus residents’ deposits alone falling by €767.7 million. In a nuanced breakdown, household deposits experienced a modest uptick of €34.2 million, while non-financial corporations saw a decrease of €469.7 million, and other domestic sectors collectively dropped by €332.2 million.

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Expanding Loan Portfolios

In contrast to deposit trends, the credit market has shown marked resilience. Total loans increased by €76.4 million in January 2026, albeit down from the €587.2 million net growth recorded in the previous month. More notably, the annual expansion of total loans accelerated, rising to 11.2% from 10.7%, bringing the current loan portfolio to €26.9 billion. The demand for credit is particularly evident among Cyprus residents, whose loans jumped by €124.2 million. Meanwhile, loans to non-financial corporations only grew by €22.6 million, and household borrowing remained static. Other domestic sectors contributed an additional €101.5 million in new loans.

Implications for Stakeholders

This divergent trend between deposit contraction and loan expansion may compel stakeholders to reassess liquidity and credit risk frameworks. Analysts suggest that while the robust loan growth indicates a healthy appetite for borrowing, the simultaneous decline in deposits could signal liquidity pressures, necessitating tighter risk management strategies among financial institutions.

Conclusion

The evolving financial landscape in Cyprus, marked by a strong loan growth rate and diminishing deposit volumes, presents both opportunities and challenges. As the CBC continues to provide granular insights into these trends, market participants must remain vigilant, balancing growth ambitions with prudent liquidity management.

Figma Expands Its Innovation Frontier

Figma is expanding its AI capabilities by integrating OpenAI’s Codex directly into its platform, adding coding functionality to its collaborative design environment. The move follows a recent partnership with Anthropic, which introduced Claude Code into Figma’s ecosystem. The integration reflects a broader industry trend toward combining design and development workflows inside a single platform.

Enhanced Workflow Across Platforms

The new feature is powered by Figma’s Model Context Protocol (MCP) server, which allows teams to move more easily between design files and code generation tools. Users previously could export assets from Figma design files, Figma Make, or FigJam into external coding environments. With deeper Codex integration, teams can now move between design and implementation more directly, aiming to reduce friction between creative and technical workflows.

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Empowering Designers And Developers

Loredana Crisan, Figma’s Chief Design Officer, said in an interview that the goal is to help teams iterate beyond initial concepts by combining design collaboration with code-based execution. OpenAI’s Codex Product Lead Alexander Embiricos added that the integration is intended to make coding tools more accessible to both designers and engineers, allowing each group to work within familiar environments while collaborating more closely.

Industry Impact And Future Developments

Codex, originally launched as a developer-focused assistant and later integrated into ChatGPT, is increasingly being adopted as part of broader product ecosystems. The tool’s expansion into platforms like Figma signals growing demand for AI systems that connect creative and technical workflows. The integration also comes as AI-assisted coding tools gain traction across the software industry, with companies experimenting with ways to embed AI directly into everyday productivity platforms.

Looking Ahead

Figma’s move highlights how design and development tools are converging as AI becomes more deeply integrated into creative workflows. By linking design collaboration with code generation, the company is positioning its platform as a shared environment for both designers and developers as teams adopt more AI-driven workflows.

For more information on Figma, visit Figma Official Website and for additional insights on OpenAI’s Codex, refer to the OpenAI website.

Galaxy S26 Smartphones

At its Galaxy Unpacked event in San Francisco, Samsung introduced the Galaxy S26 lineup, which includes the Galaxy S26 Ultra, S26 Plus, and S26. The new devices build on last year’s models with hardware upgrades, stronger AI integration, and expanded privacy features.

The flagship Galaxy S26 Ultra runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and features a 6.9-inch QHD+ display. It includes a 5,000 mAh battery with support for fast charging, reaching up to 75% in around 30 minutes with a 60W charger. Samsung also continues to position the device as a productivity-focused model with integrated S-Pen support.

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Camera updates include a 200-megapixel wide lens and a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with improved apertures aimed at enhancing low-light performance. In selected markets, the Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2600 processor, with pricing slightly higher than the previous generation.

Enhanced Privacy Display Technology

One of the key additions is an updated privacy display system available on the S26 Ultra. The feature is designed to reduce screen visibility for nearby onlookers, allowing users to hide sensitive content such as notifications or password fields. Users can apply privacy settings on an app-by-app basis, while a dedicated maximum privacy mode adjusts brightness and display behavior to further limit side viewing. The feature reflects growing demand for stronger privacy controls on mobile devices.

Gemini’s Agentic Transformation And Circle To Search

The event also featured notable announcements from Google. A preview of the new agentic version of Google Gemini was presented, demonstrating its capability to autonomously execute multi-step tasks, such as ordering food via Grubhub directly from a group chat. In addition, Google unveiled an updated “Circle to Search” feature, harnessing multi-object recognition to instantly search for highlighted content on the display. These developments further blur the lines between hardware and AI, reinforcing the trend toward smarter, more integrated mobile ecosystems.

Integrated AI Ecosystem

Samsung continues to position AI as a central pillar of the Galaxy experience. The S26 series supports multiple assistants, including Bixby, Google Gemini, and Perplexity. The company said it plans deeper integration with Perplexity’s APIs to support functions such as search, note-taking, and task management. Galaxy AI features also include improved call screening and automatic call summaries aimed at simplifying communication management.

Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Series

Alongside the smartphones, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Buds4 and Buds4 Pro. The earbuds feature a redesigned shape with a flatter stem and improved dust and water resistance ratings. The Buds4 Pro include an 11mm woofer designed to increase speaker surface area and improve audio output, along with slightly longer battery life compared with the standard model. Pricing starts at $179 for the Buds4 and $250 for the Buds4 Pro.

Company Restructuring And Workforce Reduction

eBay said it will eliminate around 800 positions, or roughly 6% of its global workforce, as part of a broader restructuring aimed at reallocating resources toward strategic priorities. The company said the changes are intended to simplify operations and focus investment on areas expected to drive future growth.

Careful Evaluation And Support For Impacted Employees

In a statement, eBay said the restructuring followed a review of operational needs, overlapping functions, and long-term priorities. The company added that it plans to provide support to employees affected by the cuts. The workforce reduction follows similar efficiency efforts across the technology sector as companies adjust cost structures while investing in new technologies.

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Enhanced Focus On AI And Efficiency

In recent years, eBay has increased investment in artificial intelligence to improve internal workflows and user experience. The company has introduced AI tools aimed at streamlining listings, improving search functionality, and enhancing buyer and seller interactions. eBay has also explored partnerships involving AI technologies as part of efforts to modernize its platform and improve operational efficiency.

Expanding Into Fashion And Diverse Market Categories

The restructuring comes alongside a broader strategy to expand into high-growth categories. eBay previously announced plans to acquire Depop, a secondhand fashion marketplace popular with younger consumers, in a deal valued at about $1.2 billion. CEO Jamie Iannone has said the move supports eBay’s push into fashion while complementing existing focus areas such as collectibles, automotive parts, and refurbished goods.

Competitive Pressures In A Dynamic Marketplace

eBay continues to compete with large e-commerce platforms, including Amazon and Walmart, as well as fast-growing online marketplaces such as Etsy, TikTok Shop, Temu, and Shein. The company’s current strategy combines cost restructuring with technology investment as it seeks to strengthen its position in a rapidly changing retail environment.

Addressing Legal Challenges And Future Prospects

Alongside operational changes, eBay recently resolved a legal case involving former employees. Financial terms of the settlement were not disclosed. As the company adjusts its workforce and expands investments in AI and targeted product categories, management is positioning eBay to adapt to shifting consumer behavior and increased competition across global e-commerce.