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Cyprus Banking Sector Sees Surging Loans Amid Falling Deposits in March 2025

The banking landscape in Cyprus experienced notable shifts in March 2025, as reported by the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC). This period saw a substantial increase in loans totaling €429.9 million, contrasting sharply with a decrease of €66.3 million in deposits.

Loan Growth: A Deeper Look

March recorded a sharp increase in total loans, with a rise of €429.9 million compared to February’s modest €42.7 million increase. This hike pushed the annual loan growth rate to 3.1%, from 1.9% previously, with the total loan balance reaching €25.5 billion. Loans to Cyprus residents surged by €269.9 million, largely driven by non-financial corporations, which saw an increase of €188.6 million. Loans to households also saw an uptick of €29.8 million, signaling economic activity amidst the island’s financial environment.

Shifts in Deposit Dynamics

Conversely, total deposits experienced a net decline of €66.3 million in March, overturning February’s €498.3 million rise. This led to a deceleration in annual deposit growth, slowing to 7.1% from the previous 7.7%. While deposits from households showed a €13.6 million increase and non-financial corporations deposited an additional €400.1 million, other sectors like investment organizations and pension funds withdrew €436.1 million.

The total deposit balance ultimately stood at €55.9 billion, reflecting a complex interplay of financial forces on the island.

These developments come as Cyprus continues to bolster its financial infrastructure, with initiatives like the tourism revenue surge in February showing broader economic trends at play.

Cyprus Reduces Fuel Tax By 8.33 Cents As Prices Continue To Rise

The latest surge in fuel prices is putting unprecedented pressure on consumer purchasing power, forcing government intervention amid volatile global energy markets. Historic highs at the pump have compelled officials to enact further consumption tax cuts in a bid to stabilize household budgets while international trends remain unpredictable.

Government Intervention And Policy Measures

Authorities plan to approve an 8.33 cent per liter reduction in consumption tax on premium unleaded gasoline and diesel, effective from April 2026. This will be the third intervention since 2022, when fuel prices rose following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and after a further adjustment in November 2023.

Historical Context And Comparative Analysis

Fuel prices have increased over recent years. In March 2022, premium unleaded stood at €1.442 per liter and diesel at €1.500. By November 2023, prices rose to €1.550 for gasoline and €1.709 for diesel. As of March 2026, gasoline reached €1.571 per liter and diesel €1.819. Compared with 2023 levels, gasoline prices increased by 1.8 cents per liter, while diesel rose by 10.9 cents.

Global Market Dynamics Impacting Local Prices

International benchmarks continue to influence domestic fuel prices. Brent crude remains above $100 per barrel, while the price of heavy Brent oil has increased by about 58% since February 2026. Market indicators such as the Platts Basis Italy index show increases of 52% for gasoline, 89% for diesel, and 88% for heating oil. These trends affect import costs and pricing across the local market.

Consumer Concerns And The Search For Relief

The planned tax reduction may provide short-term relief for transport fuels. Heating oil prices remain higher, reaching about €1.30 per liter, approximately 6 cents above previous levels. No tax reduction has been announced for heating fuel. According to Konstantinos Karagiorgis, reliance on private vehicles increases the impact of fuel price changes on households, given limited public transport options.

Outlook And Future Considerations

The tax reduction is expected to offset part of the recent increase in fuel costs. Consumer groups, including the Cyprus Consumer Association, have called for similar measures on heating oil. Further developments will depend on global energy prices and geopolitical conditions.

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