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EBA Finds Gaps In Bank Recovery Dry Run Practices

Overview Of The European Banking Authority Findings

The European Banking Authority (EBA) published a report examining how banks conduct dry runs to test recovery plans. The analysis focuses on how institutions prepare for stress scenarios and assess their ability to implement recovery measures. Dry runs serve as practical tests of operational readiness under adverse conditions.

Varied Approaches And Institutional Maturity

Findings show clear differences in how banks design and execute these exercises. Approaches vary in scope, methodology, and depth of implementation. Institutions that treat dry runs mainly as compliance exercises tend to gain limited practical value. In such cases, testing does not translate into improvements in recovery planning.

Integrating Dry Runs Into Broader Risk Management

More advanced institutions integrate dry runs into broader risk management processes. These exercises are used to test internal coordination, decision-making, and operational response. Such integration improves the feasibility of recovery plans and supports faster execution during stress events.

Regulatory Evolution And Future Implications

The EBA highlights the need for consistent and high-quality testing of recovery frameworks. Updates to testing approaches are required as risk conditions evolve. Closer alignment between recovery and resolution planning is also identified as an area for further development.

Moving Forward With Strategic Preparedness

According to EBA, the benchmarking exercise is intended to guide improvements rather than impose requirements. The report provides reference points for strengthening testing practices across institutions. Additional guidance, including the EBA handbook on simulation exercises, supports further development of recovery and resolution planning.

Robust Cyprus Construction Activity Bolsters Vassilico Cement’s 2025 Performance

Vassilico Cement Works Public Company Ltd reported a net profit of €35.52 million for 2025, supported by strong construction activity in Cyprus. Company profit reached €34.99 million, reflecting higher revenues and improved operating performance.

Domestic Market Growth Driven By Cyprus Construction

Group revenue rose to €152.75 million, while company revenue reached €152.66 million, up 11% year on year. Growth was driven by increased sales volumes in the domestic market, where construction activity remained strong throughout the year.

Enhanced Production Efficiency And Cost Management

Gross profit increased to €50.30 million at group level and €50.21 million at company level, compared with €42.49 million in 2024. The improvement reflects gains in production efficiency and cost control, supported by higher use of alternative fuels and improved electricity efficiency. These measures reduced unit costs while supporting environmental targets.

Executive Insights And Macroeconomic Outlook

Executive Chairman Antonis Antoniou said strong domestic demand supported production volumes, with the company maintaining focus on the local market and managing exports selectively. He added that favorable economic conditions in Cyprus contributed to performance, despite regulatory pressures in Europe and broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Navigating Energy And Regulatory Challenges

Future performance will be influenced by energy market volatility and European climate policy, including carbon pricing and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Rising fuel and electricity costs continue to affect energy-intensive industries.

The company is expanding its renewable energy capacity, with a photovoltaic park reaching 16MW and plans for an additional 8MW, subject to grid connection. The investments aim to improve cost stability and energy efficiency.

Shareholder Returns And Strategic Investments

The board approved an interim dividend of €0.15 per share, totaling €10.79 million, on September 25, 2025. A final dividend of €16.55 million, or €0.23 per share, will be proposed. Combined, total dividends amount to €27.34 million, or €0.38 per share.

Management said the company will continue focusing on efficiency, cost control and sustainability as it navigates energy market pressures and regulatory requirements.

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