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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.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) Retains Title As The World’s Busiest International Airport In 2024

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 17, 2025

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has once again earned the title of the World’s Busiest International Airport with a total of 60.2 million seats in 2024. This follows its similar achievements in 2023 and 2019, underscoring the UAE’s strategic position in global aviation. DXB’s capacity saw a significant 7% year-on-year growth compared to 2023, as well as a 12% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

OAG’s report, which calculates the busiest airports based on international airline capacity, placed DXB in the lead, with Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) coming in second overall when including both domestic and international flights. The rankings highlight DXB’s role in shaping the global aviation sector, aided by the UAE’s efficient infrastructure and positioning as a key air traffic hub.

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Top 10 Busiest International Airports In 2024

Following DXB, London Heathrow Airport (LHR) secured the second spot with 48.4 million seats, marking a 4% increase in capacity from 2023. Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) made an impressive leap, moving up four places to claim third with 41.6 million seats, reflecting a 24% capacity growth compared to 2023.

Other notable airports in the top 10 include Singapore Changi (SIN) in fourth place with 41.5 million seats, and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) in fifth with 40 million. Istanbul Airport (IST) showed the most substantial growth in capacity among the top 10, increasing by 20% to reach 38.6 million seats, securing sixth place.

Noteworthy Changes In Rankings

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) followed in seventh place with 38.5 million seats, while Frankfurt Airport (FRA) ranked eighth with 35.7 million. Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) had the most significant year-on-year capacity increase in the top 10, up by 40%, although still 23% behind 2019 levels. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) rounded out the top 10 with 32.5 million seats, experiencing a 13% increase from 2023.

Global Overview: Top 10 Busiest Airports In 2024 (Including Both Domestic And International Flights)

The busiest airport globally in 2024 was Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL), with 62.7 million seats. It maintained its top position from 2023 and 2019, although capacity was up just 2% year-on-year and slightly down from 2019 by 1%. Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) secured third place with 55.2 million seats, a 5% increase from 2023.

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) moved into fifth place, surpassing its pre-pandemic capacity by 18%. Denver International (DEN) saw the highest growth among the top 10, with a remarkable 24% capacity increase, moving it to sixth position.

Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) saw a 29% increase in capacity compared to 2023, largely driven by China’s post-pandemic recovery in air travel, propelling PVG from 15th in 2023 to 9th in 2024.

The rankings of the busiest airports reveal the resilience of global aviation and the recovery of regions like China, while also underscoring the growing importance of airports in the Middle East and North America. With substantial growth expected to continue, these airports will play a pivotal role in the global recovery and expansion of air travel in the coming years.