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Fitch Affirms Cyprus A- Rating With Positive Outlook

Fitch Affirms Cyprus’ Economic Resilience

Fitch Ratings reaffirmed Cyprus at A- with a positive outlook, citing strong fiscal performance, declining public debt and continued economic growth. The agency also highlighted Cyprus’ membership in the European Union and eurozone as factors supporting macroeconomic and financial stability.

Government Endorsement And Market Implications

Cyprus Finance Minister Makis Keravnos welcomed the rating confirmation as particularly significant for the nation’s small, open economy. “It is particularly gratifying for the small and open economy of Cyprus that international rating agencies such as Fitch certify the resilience of the Cypriot economy and maintain its creditworthiness at investment grade,” Keravnos stated. He added that despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, the outlook for Cyprus remains broadly favorable.

Political And Economic Context

President Nikos Christodoulides described the rating as a “strong vote of confidence” and emphasized its importance in the current geopolitical climate. “Strengthening the credibility of our country acts as a shield for the economy, supports businesses, and underpins social policies that deliver tangible benefits to our citizens,” he remarked. Fitch acknowledged that while Cyprus boasts robust fiscal fundamentals, it faces challenges from relatively weaker governance indicators and external financial vulnerabilities, particularly given its unique regional dynamics.

External Pressures And Future Projections

The agency also examined the impact of external shocks, including the war in Iran, which has affected energy prices and had a ripple effect on growth, external balance, and inflation. However, Cyprus’ accelerating economic diversification and improved public and private sector balance sheets have moderated these pressures. Fitch forecasts a modest slowdown in GDP growth, projecting an average expansion of 2.6% between 2026 and 2027, compared to 3.8% in 2025.

Fiscal Strength In A Challenging Environment

Fitch expects Cyprus to record one of the European Union’s strongest fiscal surpluses in 2025 at 3.4% of GDP. The agency added that although parliamentary elections may create a more fragmented political environment, broad support for fiscal discipline across the political spectrum is expected to continue supporting policy stability.

Investor Confidence And Economic Stability

The latest rating decision reinforces Cyprus’ position among investment-grade eurozone economies at a time of heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty. Continued fiscal consolidation and stable banking conditions remain central to maintaining investor confidence and long-term economic resilience.

Eurobank Launches First UPI Cross-Border Payment From Greece To India

Eurobank has launched its first cross-border payment from Greece to India through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking a new step in the bank’s international expansion and its strategy to strengthen financial ties between Europe and India.

The transaction, completed in cooperation with NPCI International, follows the launch of Eurobank’s new payment service. The inaugural payment was made in the presence of India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Eurobank Chief Executive Fokion Karavias and senior executives from NPCI International.

A Strategic Bet On India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

According to Eleftherios Vlachogiannis, Eurobank’s head of transaction banking, the service currently supports outgoing payments by Indian citizens living in Greece to recipients in India, representing the first phase of a broader collaboration with NPCI International.

UPI is operated by NPCI International. By integrating the system into its e-banking platform and mobile app, Eurobank enables customers to make real-time transfers.

“The most important aspect is the philosophy behind the initiative,” Vlachogiannis said. “Instead of creating another closed payment system, we are integrating mature and internationally recognised payment ecosystems into the bank’s services so customers enjoy a simple, secure and modern transaction experience.”

He added: “Innovation creates value when it delivers a genuine benefit for the customer.”

Building A Financial Bridge Between Europe And India

The UPI launch follows Eurobank’s opening of a representative office in Mumbai, making it the first Greek and Cypriot bank with a physical presence in India. The bank has also expanded its presence through the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council, a technology centre in Pune and partnerships with Indian institutions.

Vlachogiannis said India’s economic growth and closer ties with the European Union support the bank’s long-term strategy. He also pointed to progress in negotiations on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

Mumbai Office Serves As A Regional Business Hub

Eurobank’s Mumbai office supports businesses seeking to establish operations between India, Greece, Cyprus and the wider European market. It provides access to banking services, business networks and market support.

For Greek companies expanding into India, the bank offers international payments, foreign exchange management, trade finance and supply chain finance. Indian businesses investing in Greece, Cyprus or elsewhere in the European Union can also access financing and corporate banking services through Eurobank.

Aiming To Strengthen The India-Europe Corridor

Looking ahead, Eurobank said it will continue investing in technology, international payments, trade finance and partnerships with Indian organisations.

“Our ambition is to act not only as a banking services provider but also as a strategic partner for businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the opportunities created by this dynamic market,” Vlachogiannis said.

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