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CySEC Reverses Authorization Suspension for Trek Labs Amid Strategic Enforcement Moves

Renewed Confidence in Compliance

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has reaffirmed its trust in Trek Labs Europe Ltd, formerly known as FTX (EU) Ltd, by reversing the earlier suspension of its authorization. At the meeting held on June 23, 2025, CySEC confirmed that Trek Labs, operating under license number 273/15, had successfully met the rigorous standards mandated by the Investment Services and Activities and Regulated Markets Law of 2017. This decision, executed under paragraph 9(3)(a) of Directive DI87-05, signifies a significant regulatory turnaround and underscores the agency’s commitment to dynamic oversight.

Decisive Actions Against Non-Compliance

In a separate ruling on the same day, CySEC revoked the operating license of Oasis Wealth Management Limited. The firm, recognized as a Management Company of Open-ended Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities, had proactively opted to withdraw its own licence. This revocation was conducted under section 121(1)(a) of the Open-Ended Undertakings for Collective Investment Law of 2012, reflecting CySEC’s robust stance on ensuring regulatory alignment in the financial sector.

Targeted Financial Settlements

CySEC has also finalized several financial settlements under article 37(4) of the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission Law of 2009. These settlements address non-compliance with specific legal provisions and serve as an economic deterrent while contributing to the Treasury of the Republic. The agency concluded a €60,000 settlement with Blossem Services Ltd following an investigation into authorisation compliance requirements specified in the 2017 Law.

Similarly, a €40,000 settlement was secured from Exclusive Change Capital Ltd, tied to organisational obligations observed between January and August 2021, as per articles 22(1) and 17(5)(b) of the 2017 Law. In another case, Broctagon Prime Ltd agreed to a €50,000 settlement related to alleged breaches of articles 25(1) and 25(3)(a) concerning general principles and client information protocols during the third quarter of 2021.

Enforcement of Administrative Standards

Additionally, CySEC imposed a €1,800 fine on A.T.I. Associates (Cyprus) Ltd for failing to submit its annual report for the financial year ending December 31, 2024 by the statutory deadline of February 11, 2025. This administrative penalty, enforced during a board meeting on May 26, 2025, was executed pursuant to article 54(1) of EU Regulation 2019/2033 and the related provisions of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/2284.

These regulatory actions reflect CySEC’s unwavering commitment to market integrity and operational transparency, reinforcing a disciplined approach that benefits both the consumer and the financial industry at large.

Middle East Tensions Cast Uncertainty Over Cyprus Tourism Sector

Cyprus’ tourism sector is entering a period of heightened uncertainty as regional tensions in the Middle East begin to affect travel sentiment. Although the country is not directly involved in the conflict, industry stakeholders report growing caution among travelers, tour operators and hospitality businesses.

Heightened Concern Across The Sector

Tourism officials and industry representatives are closely monitoring developments. While maintaining a measured public stance, they remain in contact with international partners and travel operators to assess potential changes in travel programs. Despite the uncertainty, many industry figures believe that once tensions ease, targeted marketing campaigns and competitive pricing could help restore Cyprus’ position as a preferred Mediterranean destination.

Operational Adaptations And Labour Considerations

According to reports by Philenews, hotel operators recently met with representatives of the Deputy Ministry of Tourism to discuss the operational challenges emerging from the situation. Labour issues were a central focus of the discussions. Many hotel businesses had originally planned to reopen in March to align with travel agents’ seasonal programs and extend the tourism season. Other establishments had scheduled openings in early April to capitalize on the Easter holiday period for both Catholic and Orthodox travelers.

Revised Timelines Amid Uncertainty

These plans are now being reassessed. Some hotel operators have proposed extending the full suspension of staff employment for up to two additional months, potentially until the end of April, while awaiting clearer developments in the region.

Such a decision would prolong the current period of unemployment for many tourism workers, highlighting the economic impact the crisis could have on the sector. An alternative proposal involves partial reopening, allowing hotels to operate with only essential personnel based on confirmed bookings. Industry representatives also discussed the possibility of requesting financial assistance from the European Union to offset potential losses.

Mixed Signals For The Summer Season

Despite the uncertainty, travel agents have so far maintained their scheduled flight programs to Cyprus for the summer period, including charter flights between May and October. This suggests that confidence in the destination remains relatively stable among some market segments.

At the same time, hotel operators report cancellations not only for the March–April period but also for certain summer bookings, while demand for new reservations has slowed. Industry stakeholders nevertheless remain hopeful that an easing of regional tensions would quickly restore traveler confidence.

Air Connectivity Gradually Restored

Air connectivity with key markets is also beginning to stabilize. Hermes Airports recently confirmed that several routes between Cyprus and European destinations have resumed. Emirates has restarted flights to Larnaca, strengthening connections with international markets. Haris Papacharalambous, president of the Association of Cyprus Travel and Tourism Agents (ACTTA), noted that the return of routes from the United Kingdom and airlines within the Lufthansa Group is gradually restoring Cyprus’ connectivity with major tourism markets.

While the tourism industry braces for continued volatility, the consensus remains that a swift end to the hostilities in the Middle East is essential for Cyprus to regain its historical vibrancy as a top tourist destination.

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