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CIFA: A Year Of Strategic Growth And Opportunity For Investment Funds In 2025

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 9, 2025

The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) is stepping into 2025 with renewed confidence, building on the significant achievements of the past years. Despite the global uncertainties that continue to unfold, Cyprus’ Investment Funds sector has firmly established itself as a vital contributor to the nation’s economic and social prosperity.

In 2024, Cyprus reached a major milestone, surpassing €9.3 billion in assets under management. This remarkable achievement highlights the sector’s impressive growth and resilience. The year also marked an expansion of Cyprus’ global presence, attracting new fund managers and investment opportunities, further cementing its status as a leading European hub for Investment Funds. This success was driven by strategic collaborations and the dedicated efforts of professionals within the sector, fostering the creation of specialized job roles and reinforcing Cyprus’ position as a robust financial centre.

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Looking ahead to 2025, CIFA remains fully committed to promoting Cyprus as the premier destination for global investment funds. By working alongside key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, and Invest Cyprus, CIFA aims to enhance the regulatory framework and drive innovative solutions for the industry. The timely approval of pending legislation that modernizes regulatory processes and introduces new investment structures is crucial for unlocking the full potential of the sector. These updates will provide the industry with the necessary tools to stay competitive and aligned with international best practices. CIFA urges all stakeholders to prioritize this agenda to ensure Cyprus continues to attract high-quality investments and talent.

In addition, CIFA recognises the importance of equipping individuals and businesses with essential financial knowledge. In 2025, the association plans to roll out initiatives designed to boost financial literacy across Cyprus. These will include workshops, partnerships, and digital campaigns aimed at enhancing understanding of investment funds and financial planning. By empowering citizens and professionals with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions, CIFA is contributing to the long-term economic resilience of Cyprus.

Maria Panayiotou, President of CIFA, shares her outlook for the year: “The success of the Investment Funds sector is a reflection of our adaptability, innovation, and ability to thrive in a competitive global market. In 2025, our focus will be on sustainability, technology-driven solutions, and strengthening our partnerships across markets. Our goal is to drive economic growth while delivering lasting value for society. With the combined expertise and dedication of our sector, I am confident that we will continue to play a transformative role in Cyprus’ economy, fostering resilience and creating opportunities for all.”

As Cyprus embarks on a year of revitalisation and resilience, CIFA remains steadfast in advocating for the interests of its members, elevating Cyprus on the international stage, and supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development within the financial sector. The association calls on all stakeholders to collaborate in advancing the innovation, sustainability, and resilience that will define Cyprus’ financial future.

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Cyprus Maps Out AI-Driven Future For Tourism

by News Editor

August 13, 2026

Cyprus is looking to make artificial intelligence a key part of its tourism strategy as the government explores ways to improve services, enhance the visitor experience and strengthen the island’s competitiveness.

Tourism Deputy Minister Kostas Koumis and Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology Demetris Skourides discussed the plans on Thursday, with the meeting focusing on how AI can support the digital transformation of Cyprus as a tourism destination.

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Smart Tourism Strategy Takes Shape

Skourides’ team presented “Smart Tourism 2032: the Cyprus Artificial Intelligence Strategy” as part of the ongoing public consultation on the country’s national AI strategy.

The consultation is due to close on August 31, 2026. The tourism initiative forms part of the wider effort to determine how AI should be developed and applied across the economy.

Under the proposed strategy, Cyprus would become a “Living Lab” combining advanced technology with its traditional hospitality. The approach is built around three areas: smart tourism infrastructure, smart destination planning and management, and an empowered digital tourist.

Small and medium-sized tourism businesses are also expected to play an important role in adopting new technologies across the sector.

AI To Reshape The Visitor Experience

According to Koumis, AI is already changing tourism, from how visitors research destinations and plan trips to how destinations promote themselves.

“AI has entered the tourism sector dynamically and has already brought visible changes to a series of tourism-related functions, such as information gathering, trip planning and destination promotion,” he said.

The government wants to work with Skourides’ team to use the technology both to improve Cyprus’ competitiveness and enhance the experience offered to visitors.

Koumis said the development of tourism services was increasingly connected to the new capabilities created by AI, adding that Cyprus should make the most of these opportunities.

Tourism Businesses Included In AI Plans

Beyond improving individual services, the strategy aims to give tourism businesses a role in shaping the country’s broader AI framework.

The Deputy Ministry of Tourism wants the sector to participate in the consultation and take advantage of support created through technological development and the expansion of AI.

Ultimately, “Smart Tourism 2032” seeks to combine digital innovation with Cyprus’ established tourism strengths, particularly its reputation for hospitality, while preparing the sector for a more technology-driven visitor journey.