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Cyprus’ Public Debt Falls: An Economic Breakthrough?

As of December 31, 2024, Cyprus achieved a noteworthy decline in its public debt, now standing at €20.92 billion—a reduction from €22.18 billion at the close of 2023. This data is sourced from the latest fiscal report by the Republic of Cyprus. The report, presented to both the Finance Minister Makis Keravnos and the Council of Ministers, offers an in-depth analysis of fiscal operations over the year.

Exclusions And Clarifications

It’s essential to note that the total debt figures exclude intergovernmental borrowing, which increased from €10.73 billion in 2023 to €12.03 billion in 2024.

Revenue And Expenditure Insights

Despite recording a deficit of €0.32 billion in 2024, improvements from a €0.45 billion deficit in 2023, Cyprus’ total revenues rose impressively to €9.57 billion from the previous year’s €8.72 billion. This increase was primarily driven by taxation, which contributed a significant 84%, equating to €8.06 billion of total revenues.

Personnel-related expenses and social benefits were among the largest expenditure categories, the latter also includes the government’s €0.77 billion contribution to the General Healthcare System (Gesy).

Social Impact And Transfers

Transfers, mainly involving grants and state contributions to various organizations, including EU-directed funds, accounted for €1.53 billion.

Overall, the financial report sheds light on a dynamic economic year for Cyprus—with significant implications for future fiscal strategies and economic health.

AI’s Economic Benefits Surpass Emissions Concerns According to IMF

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently highlighted the potential economic benefits of artificial intelligence (AI), projecting a global output boost of approximately 0.5% per year from 2025 to 2030. This growth is expected to surpass the environmental costs associated with higher carbon emissions from AI-driven data centers.

The report, showcased at the IMF’s spring meeting, emphasizes the need for equitable distribution of these economic gains while managing the adverse effects on our climate. The forecast indicates that AI’s contribution to GDP growth will outweigh the financial impacts of emissions, though it points out the necessity for policymakers and businesses to mitigate societal costs.

Energy Demands and Environmental Footprint

AI is set to escalate global electricity demand, potentially reaching 1,500 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030, mirroring the energy consumption of countries like India today.

The increasing demand for data processing capacity could result in higher greenhouse gas emissions, but the AI industry aims to offset these with advancements in renewable energy technologies.

AI: A Driver for Energy Efficiency?

Analysts suggest that AI could potentially reduce carbon emissions through improved energy efficiency, fostering advancements in low-carbon technologies across sectors such as power, food, and transport. Grantham Research Institute stresses the significance of strategic action from governments and industries to facilitate this transition.

The role of AI in the global economy continues to evolve, stirring debates not only about its economic potential but also its environmental impact.

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