Breaking news

Employment Growth in Cyprus: Q1 2025 Sees 1.5% Upswing Amid Key Sector Advances

New economic data underscores persistent growth in Cyprus as employment in the first quarter of 2025 rose 1.5% compared to the same period in 2024. The Cyprus Statistical Service (Cystat) confirmed a total workforce of 497,343, including 444,635 employees and 52,708 self-employed professionals, highlighting robust labor market fundamentals.

Detailed Employment Trends

The rising employment figures point to an adaptive labor market that sustains both traditional and innovative roles. This balanced growth reflects strategic economic initiatives in diversifying and strengthening labor practices across the island.

Sectoral Performance Driving Growth

The upswing was most notable in the arts, entertainment and recreation; manufacturing; information and communication; and construction sectors. Not only did these industries register significant employment gains, but actual hours worked also increased by 1.9%, reaching 230,173 thousand. The concentrated performance across these sectors signifies a deliberate rebalancing and modernization of Cyprus’s economic profile.

Improved Unemployment Metrics

Further affirming the positive trend, President Nikos Christodoulides reported a reduction in absolute unemployment figures by 2,025, with a steep 37% drop in youth unemployment, now at 9.9%. Labour Minister Yiannis Panayiotou added that the unemployment rate fell to 3.7% in April—a 27.5% year-on-year decline—thereby positioning Cyprus as having the third lowest unemployment rate within the Eurozone. Notably, May 2025 marked the first time youth unemployment dipped below 1,000, signaling a pivotal shift in the employment landscape.

The convergence of these indicators points to a coordinated effort by policymakers and industry leaders, setting the stage for continued economic resilience and investor confidence in Cyprus.

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter