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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.

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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.

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Paphos Wins Two Awards For Long-Term Tourism Strategy

The Paphos regional tourism board, Etap Paphos, said on Tuesday that its “Paphos – Unleash Your Senses” campaign has secured two industry awards, underscoring the region’s long-term effort to strengthen its position as an international tourism destination.

Recognition For Strategy, Not Just Promotion

The campaign won gold at the Cyprus Tourism Awards 2025 in the Strategy & Innovation – Timeless Presence category and bronze at the Marketing Achievements Awards 2025 in Integrated Marketing.

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Etap Paphos said the honours reflect more than a successful promotional initiative. They also validate a broader collaborative model developed over the past seven years to support the region’s tourism growth.

A Public-private Model Built Over Seven Years

The strategy was designed around a shared long-term vision, bringing together public institutions and private-sector partners under a single destination marketing framework.

According to the board, it was the first organised effort in Cyprus to successfully align public authorities and private businesses behind one unified tourism strategy. That model, it said, has since become a reference point for how coordinated action can improve a destination’s competitiveness in international markets.

Partnership At The Core Of The Campaign

The success of the campaign was credited to the contributions of a broad network of partners and stakeholders, including the Paphos Regional Board of Tourism, the Cyprus Hotel Association’s Paphos district branch, Hermes Airports, Eurobank, participating hotels and other supporting organisations.

Special recognition was also given to AZTECH, the agency responsible for the campaign’s strategic planning and execution. The board said the agency’s expertise has been central to expanding and reinforcing Paphos’s international presence.

Why The Awards Matter

“These distinctions carry deep significance as they celebrate more than just a successful advertising campaign,” the tourism board said. It added that the awards highlight the value of sustained cooperation and shared objectives over short-term promotional activity.

The recognition comes as Paphos continues working to position itself as a year-round, modern, sustainable and smart tourism destination.

“Elevating the profile of Paphos as a year-round highly modern, sustainable and smart travel destination remains an ongoing effort that relies entirely on the continued commitment and contribution of all partners,” the board said.