Breaking news

CySEC Chairman Outlines Transformative Reforms Set To Redefine Capital Markets In 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 19, 2026

European And Cypriot Markets Embrace A New Era

CySEC chairman George Theocharides has announced that sweeping regulatory reforms will redefine Cyprus and European capital markets in 2026. With enhanced transparency, stronger investor protection, and improved digital resilience, the industry is poised for a significant transition as revised frameworks come into effect.

Regulatory Revisions Reshaping Financial Landscapes

In a detailed statement, Theocharides highlighted that the overhaul of key regulations—including MiFID II and MiFIR, AIFMD II and UCITS, as well as the emerging MiCA and DORA directives—marks a crucial step towards simplifying rules and limiting conflicts of interest. According to him, the focus over 2025 and 2026 will shift from intensive rulemaking to robust implementation and evaluation, thereby ushering in a mature regulatory environment.

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

Enhanced Supervisory Measures And Investor Protection

Under the new framework, investment firms can expect greater clarity on investment costs and more stringent obligations for providers of investment advice. Domestically, the restructuring of Cyprus’ investment services sector continues apace, with growth reflected in both firm numbers and asset consolidation. CySEC plans to intensify supervisory inspections in 2026, especially in relation to client interactions, reinforcing the authority’s commitment to market integrity.

Shifting Dynamics In Collective Investments And Digital Finance

In the realm of collective investments, the revised AIFMD II framework along with amendments to align UCITS are set to introduce stricter liquidity management rules and safeguard investor interests amid market stress. Despite a reduction in the number of management companies, asset inflows continue to increase, underscoring a move towards a more stable investment environment.

Digital finance also features prominently in the new regulatory landscape. With the full implementation of the MiCA regulation in 2025, a unified EU framework for crypto-asset services has been established, aiming to bolster trust without curbing innovation. In parallel, the DORA regulation underscores the importance of digital operational resilience, with CySEC already evaluating new applicants against these standards.

Enhanced European Collaboration And Market Evolution

Theocharides further emphasized the role of the European Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA), which began coordinating national supervisory efforts in mid-2025. With plans for AMLA to assume direct supervisory powers starting in 2028, the European framework is set to benefit from unified standards and advanced technological solutions such as real-time beneficial owner verification and automated transaction monitoring.

Privatisation And The Future Of The Cyprus Stock Exchange

Looking forward, the privatisation of the Cyprus Stock Exchange is anticipated to be a pivotal development in 2026. With the relevant legislative bill under review, the initiative is expected to attract strategic investors and further consolidate the exchange as a viable alternative for corporate financing, thereby enhancing its role in the regional capital markets.

A Stable Foundation For Growth

In concluding his remarks, Theocharides asserted that the confluence of new European rules, improved transparency, and CySEC’s rigorous supervisory measures is set to cultivate a stable and secure investment environment. He expressed confidence that these changes will underpin further growth in the Cypriot capital market, ultimately strengthening the broader economy.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Cyprus Introduces €200 Million Support Measures To Cut Energy And Food Costs

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 27, 2026

Comprehensive Relief Measures For A Resilient Economy

The government of Cyprus introduced support measures exceeding €200 million to reduce household expenses and support key sectors. The package targets energy costs, food prices, tourism and agriculture. Measures come in response to rising costs and supply pressures. Implementation begins in April and May 2026.

Energy And Fiscal Reforms

The government will reduce VAT on electricity for households to 5% from May 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. The measure is expected to lower energy bills. Special consumption tax on transport fuels will decrease by 8.33 cents per liter between April and June 2026. Policy targets fuel-related costs.

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

Broadening The Zero VAT Initiative

Authorities will expand the list of products with zero VAT. Meat, poultry and fish will be included from April 1 to September 30, 2026. Existing zero-VAT categories already include fruits and vegetables. The government also decided not to introduce a green tax on fuels, avoiding an additional cost of about 9 cents per liter.

Sector-Specific Supports

The package includes a 30% wage subsidy for hotel employees for April 2026. Measure supports tourism businesses during the early season. Support for airlines aims to maintain connectivity with key destinations. The agriculture sector will receive subsidies covering 15% of costs for fertilizers and supplies in April and May.

Economic Stability, National Security

President Nikos Christodoulidis said economic stability remains a priority for the government. He noted that growth, fiscal balance and inflation trends support current policy decisions. Statement links economic policy with broader national priorities. The government continues to monitor external risks.

Ensuring Consumer Protection

Furthermore, the government has mandated rigorous market oversight and intensified inspections to prevent exploitative pricing during this period of economic intervention. This proactive stance ensures that the benefits of the measures directly serve the citizens without unintended inflationary impacts.