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Cyprus Economic Index Up 1.2%, extending Growth Trend

The Cyprus Composite Leading Economic Index (CCLEI), developed by the Economics Research Centre (CypERC) of the University of Cyprus, showed a year-over-year increase of 1.2% in November 2024.

This marks the third consecutive month of growth, following similar increases of 1.2% in October and 1.0% in September, based on the latest revised data.

The sustained growth of the CCLEI reflects the positive performance of its underlying components. Key drivers include improvements in the Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI) for both Cyprus and the eurozone, alongside a decrease in Brent crude oil prices compared to November 2023. Domestically, the CCLEI benefited from rising property sales contracts, increased tourist arrivals, growth in credit card transactions, expansion in retail sales volumes, and higher electricity production.

The CCLEI serves as a predictive tool for economic activity in Cyprus, combining various indicators to provide insights into future trends. The recent growth highlights optimism in key sectors like tourism, real estate, and retail, as well as a recovery in consumer confidence. Policymakers and investors can view this upward trend as a sign of sustained economic resilience heading into 2025.

Donatella Versace Steps Down After 30 Years At The Helm of Fashion Empire

After nearly three decades steering the iconic Versace brand, Donatella Versace is stepping down from her role as head of the fashion house. The 69-year-old Italian designer, who inherited the reins from her late brother, Gianni, following his tragic murder in 1997, will remain with the company as its Chief Brand Ambassador. She is set to pass the creative torch to Dario Vitale, the former design and image director of Miu Miu, who will take on the position of Chief Creative Officer.

In her Instagram announcement, Donatella shared her thoughts: “Championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me,” she wrote, expressing her excitement for Vitale’s appointment. “I am thrilled that Dario Vitale will be joining us, and I am eager to see Versace through new eyes.”

While her new role shifts focus, Donatella’s deep connection to Versace remains unchanged. “Versace is in my DNA and always in my heart,” she declared. Donatella’s stewardship has firmly cemented the brand as a staple in the luxury fashion industry, with designs worn by global superstars like Dua Lipa, Angelina Jolie, and Sabrina Carpenter.

In a heartfelt reflection, Donatella expressed her gratitude: “It has been the greatest honour of my life to carry on my brother Gianni’s legacy. He was the true genius, but I hope I have some of his spirit and tenacity.” Despite her transition, she reaffirmed her commitment to the brand’s future, adding: “I will remain Versace’s most passionate supporter.”

The announcement was met with a wave of tributes from the fashion world. Celebrities like actor Damian Hurley, singer Sabrina Carpenter, and model Iris Law shared their admiration for the designer’s contribution to the industry. “We love you forever,” Hurley commented, while Carpenter called her “one and only,” and Law posted, “Love you so much.”

This shake-up in leadership comes as speculation mounts that Prada Group may be eyeing a potential acquisition of Versace from its current owner, Capri Holdings, which purchased the luxury brand for €2 billion in 2018. As Donatella steps into her new role, the future of Versace remains closely watched by both fans and industry insiders.

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