Breaking news

Eurobank Takes Command with Over 98% Stake in Hellenic Bank

by News Editor

April 11, 2025

In a significant corporate development, Eurobank recently completed its mandatory public offer to significantly increase its stake in Hellenic Bank, now owning a substantial 98.46% of the bank’s issued share capital. This move follows the public offer, which closed on April 9, 2025, adding 4.99% to Eurobank’s previous 93.47% stake.

Over the coming months, Eurobank plans to exercise its squeeze-out right, aiming for full acquisition. As outlined in their takeover announcement, the bank intends to acquire all remaining shares at a price of €4.843 each.

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This transaction, completed with Cyprus Investment and Securities Corporation Limited (CISCO) serving as the advisor and underwriter, is set to reshape the Cypriot banking landscape, aligning with broader trends in regional economic transformations.

Upon completion, Eurobank’s acquisition will mark a pivotal moment in Cyprus’ financial scene. The increase in ownership follows regulations under the Public Takeover Bids Law, ensuring compliance throughout the process.

The acceptance rate for this takeover bid stands at 4.989%, with attention to final verification potentially leading to minor adjustments. Stay tuned as we monitor this significant acquisition and consider its implications for the dynamic Cypriot market.

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Call for Reform: Cyprus Faces New Challenges with Emerging Tobacco Products

by News Editor

May 31, 2025

In the face of a burgeoning variety of tobacco products, existing smoking laws in Cyprus are struggling to keep pace, as highlighted by Christos Minas, the president of the Cyprus National Addictions Authority (AAEK). On World No-Tobacco Day, there was a push for legislative reforms to comprehensively cover all tobacco forms, including non-nicotine alternatives.

Addressing Rising Trends with Effective Policies

Minas emphasized the surge in popularity of e-cigarettes and flavored products, particularly among the youth. The proposed legal updates aim to enhance enforcement efficiency against these emerging trends.

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In collaboration with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, the AAEK has established the first set of national guidelines for smoking cessation in Cyprus, crafting prevention and treatment strategies based on robust scientific evidence.

Educating Youth and Public Awareness Initiatives

Efforts are underway to raise awareness, with informative materials distributed to secondary schools across Cyprus. A public event in Nicosia highlighted the state’s ongoing commitment, providing carbon monoxide testing and expert advice on new tobacco products.

Recent data from the Cyprus general population survey 2023 indicates that 38% of smokers have used e-cigarettes recently, and the smoking initiation age remains at 18.

A Glimpse into Youth Smoking Patterns

According to the latest European school survey, 14% of Cypriot students aged 15-16 reported smoking traditional cigarettes last month. Although this rate is declining, Cyprus still ranks high in Europe for e-cigarette and hookah use among students.

The concern is global, with WHO reports showing over 37 million children aged 13-15 engage in tobacco use, driven by aggressive marketing in loosely regulated environments.

The urgency for reform is clear: before these trends solidify, proactive measures are necessary to protect future generations from potentially hazardous habits.