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Greek Bank Merges With Eurobank Cyprus: Ushering in a New Era for Financial Services

Historic Merger Sets the Stage for Enhanced Banking and Insurance Solutions

The Greek Bank has secured all regulatory approvals to merge with Eurobank Cyprus, marking a pivotal moment in Cyprus’ financial landscape. Effective September 1, the complete portfolio of assets and liabilities from Eurobank Cyprus will be transferred to the Greek Bank, as stipulated under the 1997 Banking Operations and Securities Transfer Law.

Strengthening Financial Infrastructure

This strategic merger creates a unified financial institution capable of delivering advanced banking and insurance services, while bolstering support for the Cypriot economy. The integration further includes a significant rebranding effort; the Greek Bank Public Company Ltd is set to transition to Eurobank Limited. This renaming embodies the bank’s commitment to sustainable growth and a client-centric approach.

Leadership Vision

CEO Michalis Louis emphasized the transformative nature of this development, stating: “Today’s evolution marks a historic milestone for Cyprus’ banking sector and for our entire Group. The unification of the Greek Bank with Eurobank Cyprus creates a robust, streamlined organization powered by deep expertise and dynamic innovation. The new Eurobank Ltd is much more than a mere rebranding—it reflects a shared vision for sustainable development, technological advancement, and exceptional customer service. Our top priority remains the smooth transition into this new era.”

Looking Ahead

As the merger unfolds, stakeholders can expect not only improved service offerings but also a strengthened financial entity that is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of the market. This move sets a benchmark for strategic consolidation in the financial sector, projecting a confident outlook for the future of banking in Cyprus.

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.

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