Breaking news

Cyprus Strengthens Its Position As An International Funds Hub: Key Takeaways From CIFA’s AGM

by News Editor

April 11, 2025

The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on April 10, underscoring the country’s growing appeal as a global investment funds destination. With assets under management (AUM) now exceeding €9 billion and over 330 licensed investment entities operating in Cyprus, the sector is gaining serious momentum.

A Vision For Sustainable Growth

CIFA President Maria Panayiotou credited the industry’s progress to “vision, consistency, and collaboration.” Addressing the AGM, she emphasized the association’s commitment to fostering responsible capital flows, strengthening investor confidence, and ensuring Cyprus remains a competitive jurisdiction for investment funds.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

A major focal point of the AGM was the anticipated legislative changes aimed at reinforcing the regulatory framework. The long-awaited fund administration law is expected to be approved soon, alongside the proposed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Screening Law and national tax reforms—key steps in enhancing Cyprus’ attractiveness to international investors.

Strengthening Regulatory Foundations

CIFA is actively working with the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) to refine the Alternative Investment Funds Law and the Partnership Law, focusing on clearer legal definitions and ensuring alignment with evolving EU regulations. This collaborative approach is designed to bolster Cyprus’s reputation as a well-regulated, investor-friendly jurisdiction.

Expanding Global Reach

Following the success of its 2024 roadshow in Athens, CIFA is ramping up efforts to promote Cyprus as a fund domicile in high-growth markets. Germany and the Middle East have been identified as priority regions, with targeted promotional activities set to take place in the coming months.

Additionally, CIFA is partnering with Invest Cyprus to conduct a gap analysis of the fund ecosystem, identifying growth opportunities and addressing any existing barriers to expansion.

Talent Development And Financial Literacy

Beyond regulatory and promotional efforts, the AGM highlighted CIFA’s push for education and capacity-building. The association has expanded its member-training programs, offering specialized workshops and accredited sessions to keep industry professionals at the forefront of global best practices.

On a broader scale, CIFA continues to contribute to financial literacy initiatives through its role in the Cyprus Financial Literacy and Education Committee (CyFLEC), aiming to equip individuals with the knowledge to make informed investment decisions.

ESG Takes Center Stage

The AGM wrapped up with a panel discussion on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment trends, reinforcing the growing role of sustainable finance in shaping the future of the sector. With ESG compliance becoming a key differentiator in global capital markets, Cyprus is positioning itself as a forward-thinking player in this space.

Looking Ahead

CIFA’s AGM painted a clear picture: Cyprus is not just keeping pace with international fund trends—it is actively shaping them. With regulatory reforms in motion, strategic international outreach, and a strong emphasis on investor confidence, the country is set to further solidify its status as a premier investment funds hub in the years ahead.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Municorn Rockets To The Top Of Deloitte’s Fast 50 Tech Rankings In Cyprus

by News Editor

April 24, 2025

Emerging from Cyprus, Municorn has secured the pinnacle position in Deloitte’s Technology Fast 50 Middle East and Cyprus rankings. With a jaw-dropping revenue growth of 20,164% over four years, Municorn’s success showcases Cyprus’s growing influence in the tech and innovation realm.

The fourth edition of the Fast 50 programme recorded an astonishing record of over 200 applications from the region, demonstrating a maturing start-up ecosystem.

The roster recognizes firms for four-year revenue growth, spotlighting tech leaders catalyzing industry transformation. This year’s list displayed an average growth of 8,823%, with 29 companies achieving growth rates exceeding 1,000%.

Sector Dominance: Fintech and Software

Reflecting sector trends, fintech and software led the way with 22% and 31% representation, respectively. Cyprus joined Saudi Arabia and the UAE in driving regional tech growth, accounting for 16% of ranked companies.

In particular, Deloitte’s Fast 50 programme Leader, Kyriacos Charalambides, lauded the companies for using transformative tech to resolve global issues. “These entrepreneurs are pioneering industry-shifting innovations,” he remarked.

Diversity in Leadership

This year, women-led ventures increased to 18% from last year’s 15%, as Deloitte spotlighted thriving female-fronted companies. Newly introduced categories like Kiyadat celebrate local talent, highlighting trends in the tech sector.

The ESG-focused Impact category evaluated nominees on real-world impact and excellence, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices.

With Fast 50 Connect events planned, winners can expect to network with investors, fostering further growth opportunities in May.

Stelios Kyriakides, Partner at Deloitte Cyprus, emphasized the region’s evolving fintech landscape, where tech is reshaping financial services, setting new standards.

Strategic Importance of Cyprus

This recognition not only spotlights rapid growth but also reinforces Cyprus’s strategic role in pushing the Middle East towards a tech-fueled future.