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Illegal Employment on the Rise in Cyprus as Undeclared Work Declines

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2024

A recent report on the labour market in Cyprus has revealed a worrying increase in illegal employment, even as the rate of undeclared work shows signs of decline. The findings, which were discussed during a parliamentary session, have raised concerns among lawmakers and authorities alike about the ongoing challenges in combating labour exploitation and maintaining fair employment practices.

According to data presented by the Ministry of Labour, the issue of illegal employment—workers being hired without proper work permits or contracts—has escalated in recent months. This rise comes at a time when efforts to reduce undeclared work, where employees are not registered or insured, have seen moderate success. Despite progress in regulating the labour market, illegal employment remains a significant issue, especially in industries such as construction, agriculture, and hospitality.

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Understanding the Distinction Between Illegal and Undeclared Employment

Illegal employment refers to the hiring of individuals who are not legally permitted to work, often due to their immigration status or lack of proper documentation. These workers are typically vulnerable to exploitation, receiving lower wages and lacking access to basic protections such as healthcare and social security benefits. In contrast, undeclared work involves the employment of individuals who may be legally allowed to work but are not officially registered, depriving them of insurance coverage and other legal protections.

While authorities have made strides in reducing undeclared work, particularly through stricter inspections and penalties, the rise in illegal employment presents a new challenge. Lawmakers pointed out that illegal employment poses even greater risks, as it not only harms the workers involved but also undermines the integrity of the labour market and contributes to unfair competition among businesses.

Factors Driving Illegal Employment

Several factors contribute to the increase in illegal employment, according to the Ministry of Labour. One key driver is the influx of migrant workers, many of whom lack the necessary documentation to work legally in Cyprus. Without proper channels for legal employment, these individuals often turn to unregulated jobs where they are vulnerable to exploitation.

The growing demand for cheap labour, particularly in sectors like construction and agriculture, also plays a significant role. Employers seeking to cut costs may resort to hiring illegal workers, bypassing the legal requirements for contracts, wages, and benefits. This practice not only puts workers at risk but also creates an uneven playing field, where businesses that comply with legal standards struggle to compete with those exploiting illegal labour.

Efforts to Combat Illegal Employment

In response to these findings, the government has pledged to intensify its efforts to combat illegal employment. This includes increasing inspections, imposing harsher penalties on employers found guilty of hiring illegal workers, and strengthening collaboration with immigration authorities. Additionally, there is a push to create more pathways for legal employment for migrant workers, ensuring they can enter the labour market with proper documentation and protections.

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Capital Deployment Emerges As Key Growth Driver For Greek Banks

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 31, 2026

UBS highlighted Eurobank and Alpha Bank in a report shared by Greek business outlet Newmoney, as investors increasingly focus on the lenders’ regional footprints, including Cyprus. Greek banks remain among the clearest beneficiaries of the country’s economic recovery, while more disciplined capital deployment could create further value for shareholders.

Despite recovering from lows during the Middle East crisis, Greek banks continue to trade at a discount to European peers. UBS sees potential for a rerating as lenders combine selective acquisitions with higher shareholder distributions.

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Strong Fundamentals Support The Outlook

UBS expects performing corporate lending to grow about 8% annually between 2025 and 2028, while net interest margins are believed to have reached their low point. Improving net interest income and fee income should support earnings, while non-performing exposures and the cost of risk have fallen more than expected.

Greece is also expected to sustain GDP growth of roughly 2% annually, supported by investment backed by the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility. The country has received around €25 billion of the €36 billion available, while UBS forecasts a primary surplus of up to 3.5% of GDP in 2025 and public debt falling to 138% of GDP in 2026 and 133% in 2027.

Eurobank And Alpha Bank Stand Out In Cyprus

Eurobank drew particular attention following its acquisition of Hellenic Bank in 2025, which expanded its presence in Cyprus. UBS sees further growth potential across south-eastern Europe and considers the Hellenic Bank and Eurolife acquisitions positive for profitability and return on tangible equity.

Eurobank received a buy rating and a €5.10 price target, implying 11.7% upside. Alpha Bank also received a buy recommendation, with a €4.90 target implying 8.7% upside, supported by improving profitability, value-enhancing acquisitions and its share buyback program.

Piraeus And National Bank Offer Further Upside

Piraeus Bank was UBS’s top pick, with a buy rating and a €12 price target implying 18.8% upside. The bank cited long-term growth prospects, improving return on tangible equity and the expected acquisition of National Insurance, which would expand its financial services and bancassurance platform.

National Bank of Greece received a buy recommendation and an €18.70 target, implying 12.7% upside. UBS cited its profitability, capital position and credit quality, while its agreement with Allianz could provide further support to earnings and return on tangible equity.

Capital Discipline To Shape The Next Phase

UBS expects stronger lending, fee income, lower credit risks and continued economic growth to support Greek banks. However, the report argues that capital allocation will increasingly determine performance as lenders move beyond balance-sheet expansion.

For Eurobank and Alpha Bank, regional expansion, acquisitions, improving profitability and shareholder returns are expected to drive the next phase, while UBS sees further upside across the sector as lending and capital distributions strengthen.