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Government Pushes For Price Cap On Bottled Water

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 10, 2024

In a significant move to protect consumers, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has advocated for a bill to impose price caps on bottled water at specific locations, including airports, ports, stadiums, and beaches. This intervention comes amid parliamentary discussions and concerns about the lack of a comprehensive study and consultation on the proposal. The bill aims to ensure bottled water is available at a regulated price in key areas, despite fears of potential unintended consequences. The decision on the bill’s urgency will be made in an upcoming parliamentary session.

Government’s Position and Legislative Process

The Cypriot government, led by President Christodoulides, is pushing for rapid adoption of this bill. The president highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard consumer interests and improve living standards through various measures. However, the parliamentary committee has deferred the decision to a leaders’ meeting, reflecting the need for a thorough examination of the proposal.

Parliamentary Debate and Future Steps

Intense debates have unfolded in the parliamentary committee, with some members questioning the readiness and effectiveness of the proposed regulation. Energy Minister George Papanastasiou emphasized the necessity of the cap to protect consumers in monopolistic environments. The outcome of the leaders’ meeting will determine whether the bill will be fast-tracked for a vote or undergo further scrutiny in September.

This legislative push underscores the government’s commitment to consumer protection amidst broader economic considerations. For business professionals and consumers, the development of this bill highlights the balance between regulatory actions and market dynamics in Cyprus.

Bitcoin in 2025: The Boldest Predictions for a Record-Breaking Year

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 31, 2024

After an impressive 150% surge in 2024, Bitcoin has captured the attention of investors and industry experts alike. As the world’s largest cryptocurrency crosses the $100,000 mark, the stage is set for new milestones in 2025. From regulatory shifts to institutional adoption, here are the boldest forecasts shaping Bitcoin’s future:

A Year of Transformation: Bitcoin’s 2024 Journey

In December 2024, Bitcoin soared past $100,000, fuelled by regulatory advancements and political changes. The victory of Donald Trump in the U.S. presidential election brought promises of a more crypto-friendly administration, including the replacement of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler. Trump’s proposed creation of a strategic Bitcoin reserve and broader deregulation sent ripples of optimism through the market.

Key events like the approval of the first U.S. Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and the halving cycle—a supply-reducing event occurring every four years—further bolstered Bitcoin’s rally. Despite lingering concerns from the 2023 scandals involving FTX and Binance, the cryptocurrency rebounded strongly, doubling in value.

What’s Ahead: Predictions for 2025

CoinShares: $80,000–$150,000

James Butterfield, head of research at CoinShares, anticipates Bitcoin trading between $80,000 and $150,000. The price trajectory hinges on regulatory actions under the Trump administration, which could amplify institutional interest. Butterfield notes the potential for Bitcoin to eventually reach 25% of gold’s market capitalization, aligning with a $250,000 long-term target.

Matrixport: $160,000

Crypto financial services provider Matrixport predicts Bitcoin could hit $160,000, spurred by the sustained demand for spot ETFs, favourable macroeconomic conditions, and growing global liquidity. The firm also expects Bitcoin’s notorious volatility to ease, resulting in less severe corrections compared to previous cycles.

Galaxy Digital: $185,000

Alex Thorne of Galaxy Digital sees Bitcoin surpassing $150,000 in early 2025 and closing the year at $185,000. Thorne attributes this growth to a confluence of factors, including institutional adoption, corporate integration, and even national-level investments. Galaxy Digital projects that spot Bitcoin ETFs will manage over $250 billion in assets by 2025.

Standard Chartered: $200,000

Standard Chartered’s Jeffrey Kendrick envisions Bitcoin doubling to $200,000 by the end of 2025. The prediction hinges on accelerating institutional inflows, which have already added 683,000 BTC to portfolios this year. Kendrick expects pension funds to play a pivotal role as reforms under the Trump administration facilitate broader ETF adoption.

Carol Alexander: $200,000

University of Sussex finance professor Carol Alexander shares the $200,000 forecast, though she warns that volatility will remain a challenge. While favourable regulation in the U.S. may boost prices, the unregulated nature of crypto exchanges will keep uncertainty alive.

Bit Mining: $180,000–$190,000

Yuwei Yang of Bit Mining projects Bitcoin will peak between $180,000 and $190,000, driven by lower interest rates, Trump administration policies, and increased institutional adoption. However, Yang cautions that sharp corrections could bring the price as low as $80,000.

Opportunities and Risks

While optimism reigns, experts highlight potential risks, including geopolitical tensions, market disruptions, and unexpected regulatory measures. Tightening trade relations between the U.S. and China or shifts in Federal Reserve policies could temper Bitcoin’s bullish momentum.

The Bottom Line

As Bitcoin continues its ascent, 2025 could mark a pivotal year for the cryptocurrency. Whether it’s reaching $200,000 or navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving market, Bitcoin remains a transformative force in the financial world. Investors and enthusiasts alike are watching closely, ready for what promises to be another groundbreaking chapter.