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Cyprus GDP to Grow 3.7% in 2024—Here’s What to Expect in 2025-2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 30, 2025

Cyprus’ economy gained momentum in 2024, with real GDP growth revised up to 3.7%, an upward adjustment of 0.2 percentage points, according to the latest Economic Outlook from the Economics Research Centre (CypERC) at the University of Cyprus. Growth is projected to remain solid but moderate in the coming years, with forecasts of 3.3% in 2025 and 3% in 2026.

Economic Drivers Behind The Growth

The upward revision is attributed to stronger-than-expected performance in Q3 2024, alongside positive economic indicators in Q4. The labour market’s resilience, disinflationary trends, and monetary policy easing in the eurozone have further bolstered the outlook.

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Other forecasts align with this trajectory. The Central Bank of Cyprus estimates 3.7% GDP growth in 2024, while the European Commission projects 3.6%. Looking ahead to 2025, both institutions anticipate a deceleration, with the Central Bank forecasting 3% and the European Commission predicting 2.8%. In 2026, the Central Bank expects a slight uptick to 3.1%, whereas the European Commission foresees a continued slowdown to 2.5%.

Inflation And Market Conditions

Inflation is expected to remain subdued, with CPI inflation forecast at 1.7% in 2025, a 0.4 percentage point drop from previous estimates due to lower-than-expected inflation in late 2024. For 2026, inflation is projected to edge lower to 1.6%.

Key factors shaping the inflation outlook include:

Falling international oil prices
A slowdown in inflation during H2 2024
Restrictive financing conditions
Lower selling price expectations, particularly in services

Risks And Uncertainties

CypERC highlights downside risks to the growth outlook, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainties in global trade policies. Conversely, inflation risks remain tilted to the upside, as external shocks and supply chain disruptions could drive price pressures higher.

As Cyprus navigates 2025 and beyond, the economy remains on a steady expansion path, though global and regional developments will play a crucial role in shaping its trajectory.

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Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.