Breaking news

Cyprus Inflation Eases Slightly To 2.5% In January

Inflation in Cyprus stood at 2.5% in January, down marginally from 2.6% in December, according to the Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat). The Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped by 1.58 points to 116.73, reflecting a slowdown in price growth.

Agricultural Goods saw the most volatility, rising 10% year-on-year but declining 6.1% from December. Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages increased by 4.8% annually, while Restaurants and Hotels rose by 4.1%. Clothing and Footwear recorded the steepest monthly drop, falling 13%.

The biggest contributors to annual inflation were Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages (+1.07) and Transport (+0.56), while Clothing and Footwear (-0.18) exerted downward pressure. Month-on-month, Clothing and Footwear (-1.00) had the most significant deflationary effect.

Catering Services (+0.48), Fresh Vegetables (+0.36), and Meat (+0.24) were key drivers of price increases, while Clothing Items (-0.81) pulled inflation down. Petroleum Products had the largest positive monthly impact (+0.15), while Clothing Items saw the biggest decline (-0.71).

MENA Venture Capital Stable As International Investor Activity Shifts

A Data-Led Analysis Of Investor Behavior In A War-Affected Region

Venture capital activity in the Middle East and North Africa remained relatively stable one month after the escalation of regional conflict. Early data, however, indicate changes in investor behavior rather than immediate shifts in funding totals. Initial signals are visible in investor participation, capital allocation, and deal pipeline activity.

Venture Markets And The Lag In Response

Funding announcements reflect decisions made months earlier, meaning that today’s figures do not capture the full impact of current events. Investors typically adjust strategies gradually, signaling future shifts long before they are immediately visible in total funding numbers.

International Capital As The Key Pressure Indicator

Participation of international investors remains a key indicator across the MENA venture market. Global capital has historically accounted for a significant share of funding in the region. Following global interest rate increases, international participation declined through 2023. This shift was reflected in lower cross-border deal activity, more cautious capital deployment, and longer fundraising timelines.

Implications For The Broader Startup Ecosystem

Changes in international investor activity affect multiple parts of the startup ecosystem. A recovery in participation was recorded in 2024 and continued into 2025, supporting funding activity and cross-border investment. If uncertainty persists, potential effects include slower investment decisions, reduced cross-border engagement, and extended fundraising cycles. International capital also plays a role in supporting larger funding rounds and access to global networks.

Next Steps For Stakeholders

International capital represents one of several factors shaping venture activity in the region. Its movement often precedes changes in late-stage funding, startup formation, and exit activity. Investors, policymakers, and ecosystem participants rely on data and scenario analysis to assess these trends and adjust strategies.

For A Deeper Insight

Further analysis on venture activity, capital flows, and geopolitical impact across the region is available in the full MAGNiTT report.

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The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
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