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Gold Surges Above $2,400 Amid Political Uncertainty In The US

Gold has surged past the $2,400 per ounce mark, driven by increasing demand from investors seeking safe havens amidst rising political uncertainty in the United States. The recent announcement by President Joe Biden that he will not seek re-election has intensified market volatility. Biden’s decision to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination has added to the political unpredictability, with former President Donald Trump emerging as a strong contender in the polls.

This political turbulence has led investors to turn to gold, traditionally considered a secure asset during times of instability. Additionally, the weakening US dollar has further bolstered gold prices. As markets opened on Monday, the dollar’s decline provided additional momentum for gold, as a weaker dollar typically enhances the metal’s appeal by making it cheaper for holders of other currencies.

The ongoing pre-election campaign in the US, coupled with recent events such as an assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania, has created a climate of uncertainty. This has prompted investors to seek refuge in gold, driving its price to new highs.

Market analysts hold mixed views on the long-term impact of a potential Trump victory on gold prices. Some anticipate that Trump’s policies, which may include higher trade tariffs and increased US-China tensions, could strengthen the dollar and bond yields, traditionally inversely related to gold prices. However, expectations of looser fiscal policies under a Trump administration might counteract this effect, sustaining the demand for gold.

The recent performance of gold reflects heightened investor expectations that the Federal Reserve may shift towards monetary easing. Lower interest rates generally favour gold, as they reduce the opportunity cost of holding the non-yielding asset.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

Uol
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
eCredo
Aretilaw firm

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