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Cyprus Leading Economic Index Extends Decline Amid External Pressures

Cyprus’ Composite Leading Economic Index (CCLEI) remained in negative territory in June 2026, declining 0.65% year on year, according to the Economics Research Centre of the University of Cyprus (CypERC).

External Pressures Continue To Shape The Outlook

Although the index remained below its level a year earlier, CypERC said the pace of decline moderated in June, suggesting some easing in the downward trend.

The research centre nevertheless warned that external economic and geopolitical conditions continue to weigh on Cyprus’ short-term economic outlook.

Sentiment, Energy Costs And Tourism Weigh On The Index

According to the report, the annual decline was driven by weaker economic sentiment, higher Brent crude oil prices, lower temperature-adjusted electricity production and fewer tourist arrivals.

A key factor was the weighted Economic Sentiment Indicator (ESI), which combines confidence measures for Cyprus and the euro area and remained below its June 2025 level.

Domestic Indicators Provide Support

Several domestic indicators helped offset part of the decline. Higher credit card spending, stronger retail sales and an increase in property sales contracts all contributed positively to the index.

Those gains indicate that consumer spending and property market activity remained relatively resilient despite a more challenging external environment.

The CCLEI is designed to signal turning points in the Cypriot business cycle by tracking a range of domestic and international indicators, including economic sentiment, tourism, property transactions, retail sales, electricity production and Brent crude oil prices.

Eurobank Launches First UPI Cross-Border Payment From Greece To India

Eurobank has launched its first cross-border payment from Greece to India through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking a new step in the bank’s international expansion and its strategy to strengthen financial ties between Europe and India.

The transaction, completed in cooperation with NPCI International, follows the launch of Eurobank’s new payment service. The inaugural payment was made in the presence of India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Eurobank Chief Executive Fokion Karavias and senior executives from NPCI International.

A Strategic Bet On India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

According to Eleftherios Vlachogiannis, Eurobank’s head of transaction banking, the service currently supports outgoing payments by Indian citizens living in Greece to recipients in India, representing the first phase of a broader collaboration with NPCI International.

UPI is operated by NPCI International. By integrating the system into its e-banking platform and mobile app, Eurobank enables customers to make real-time transfers.

“The most important aspect is the philosophy behind the initiative,” Vlachogiannis said. “Instead of creating another closed payment system, we are integrating mature and internationally recognised payment ecosystems into the bank’s services so customers enjoy a simple, secure and modern transaction experience.”

He added: “Innovation creates value when it delivers a genuine benefit for the customer.”

Building A Financial Bridge Between Europe And India

The UPI launch follows Eurobank’s opening of a representative office in Mumbai, making it the first Greek and Cypriot bank with a physical presence in India. The bank has also expanded its presence through the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council, a technology centre in Pune and partnerships with Indian institutions.

Vlachogiannis said India’s economic growth and closer ties with the European Union support the bank’s long-term strategy. He also pointed to progress in negotiations on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

Mumbai Office Serves As A Regional Business Hub

Eurobank’s Mumbai office supports businesses seeking to establish operations between India, Greece, Cyprus and the wider European market. It provides access to banking services, business networks and market support.

For Greek companies expanding into India, the bank offers international payments, foreign exchange management, trade finance and supply chain finance. Indian businesses investing in Greece, Cyprus or elsewhere in the European Union can also access financing and corporate banking services through Eurobank.

Aiming To Strengthen The India-Europe Corridor

Looking ahead, Eurobank said it will continue investing in technology, international payments, trade finance and partnerships with Indian organisations.

“Our ambition is to act not only as a banking services provider but also as a strategic partner for businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the opportunities created by this dynamic market,” Vlachogiannis said.

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