Cyprus Nears US Visa Waiver Program As Refusal Rate Drops Below 3%

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 28, 2024

Cyprus has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to join the US Visa Waiver Program, with the 2024 visa refusal rate for Cypriot citizens reported at just 2.16%. This figure, announced by the US Department of State, is well below the program’s required threshold of 3%, marking a crucial step toward visa-free travel for Cypriots.

Progress Towards Inclusion

Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, highlighted the importance of this development, stating that Cyprus has met a “key prerequisite” for its inclusion in the program. She credited the progress to successful technical consultations between Cyprus and the United States over the past year.

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Piki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing Cyprus’ inclusion in the program by 2025, allowing Cypriots to travel to the US for tourism and business without the need for a visa.

Support from US Officials

US Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, also acknowledged the milestone, describing it as a significant step forward. She expressed optimism that Cypriots would soon enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel to the US.

What’s Next?

The Cypriot government plans to continue its focused efforts to meet all remaining requirements, ensuring the process stays on track. This achievement underscores the growing cooperation between Cyprus and the US, paving the way for stronger ties and easier travel.

As Cyprus moves closer to this goal, the prospect of visa-free access to the US represents an important development for both business and leisure travellers.

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Cyprus University Students Take On Equity Research Challenge With Logicom

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 4, 2026

University students across Cyprus will compete in the 2026–27 CFA Society Cyprus Research Challenge, analysing listed technology group Logicom Public Ltd as this year’s subject company.

The competition officially launched on October 29 at Eurobank Cyprus’s head office in Nicosia, bringing together university teams, faculty advisers, industry mentors and Logicom representatives.

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Putting Investment Analysis Into Practice

Organised by the CFA Institute, the annual competition gives students practical experience in equity research and investment analysis. Participants work in teams to assess a publicly listed company, prepare a research report and present their findings to a panel of industry professionals.

Over the coming months, teams will analyse Logicom’s business model, financial performance and future prospects, supported by faculty advisers and mentors holding the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation. Their reports must include a buy, sell or hold recommendation.

The local final is scheduled for February 2027, with the winning team going on to represent Cyprus at the regional stage.

Developing Skills And Industry Connections

Beyond financial analysis and company valuation, the challenge helps students develop research writing, teamwork and presentation skills. Working to real-world deadlines and engaging with senior management also gives participants insight into how investment research is conducted in practice.

CFA Society Cyprus says previous participants have often credited the experience with influencing their career choices. For employers, the competition offers an opportunity to connect with emerging talent in the local financial sector.

The programme also introduces students to the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, highlighting the importance of integrity and professional responsibility in investment research.

Supporting Future Finance Professionals

“The Research Challenge is one of the most valuable experiences we can offer students who are considering a career in investment management,” said Stella Mourouzidou-Damtsa, CFA, University Relations and Research Challenge Committee chair at CFA Society Cyprus.

“It takes them beyond the classroom and asks them to think, analyse and present like professional analysts,” she added.

Mourouzidou-Damtsa also thanked Logicom for participating as this year’s subject company and giving students access to its business. She said she looked forward to seeing the insight and creativity each team would bring to the competition.

CFA Society Cyprus is a non-profit member society of the CFA Institute representing investment professionals in Cyprus. It promotes ethical standards, education and professional excellence through events, educational programmes and initiatives supporting the local investment community.

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