Microsoft’s 2025 Deadline: What Businesses Need To Know

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for several widely used software products, including Windows 10, Office 2016, and Office 2019. With only a few months left, businesses must act quickly to assess their IT infrastructure and prepare for potential security, compliance, and operational challenges.

What Happens When Support Ends?

Once Microsoft discontinues support, affected software will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance. This leaves systems exposed to cyberthreats, increasing the risk of data breaches and operational disruptions. Additionally, outdated software may face compatibility issues with new applications and hardware, complicating business processes.

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For industries with strict regulatory requirements—such as finance, healthcare, and government—continuing to use unsupported software could lead to compliance violations and legal risks.

What Are The Options?

Upgrade To Newer Microsoft Products
- Businesses can transition to Microsoft 365 or Office 2024, both of which offer ongoing support and security updates. However, cloud-based solutions like Microsoft 365 require careful integration planning, especially in complex IT environments.
- Windows 10 users can upgrade to Windows 11, provided their hardware meets system requirements. If an immediate upgrade isn’t possible, Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates (ESU) for a limited time—though at an additional cost.
Consider Alternative Solutions
- Companies seeking cost-effective options might explore LibreOffice, OpenOffice, or Google Workspace. While these alternatives offer similar functionality, they may require workflow adjustments and compatibility checks.
- Some businesses may opt to maintain legacy software with enhanced security measures. Partnering with IT specialists can help organizations navigate licensing, compliance, and cybersecurity concerns while extending the usability of older systems.

Preparing For A Smooth Transition

With the deadline approaching, businesses should start planning now. A strategic transition plan should include:

Conducting a software audit to identify affected systems.
Evaluating upgrade paths and cost-effective solutions.
Strengthening cybersecurity to mitigate risks.
Consulting IT professionals to address licensing and compliance challenges.

The end of support for Windows 10, Office 2016, and Office 2019 is a critical moment for businesses. Whether upgrading, switching to alternative platforms, or securing legacy systems, early action will ensure security, compliance, and long-term IT resilience.

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Central Bank Of Cyprus Balance Sheet Reflects Strong Eurosystem Position

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 17, 2026

Overview Of Financial Stability

The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) has released its latest balance sheet, reaffirming its steadfast role within the Eurosystem. The balance sheet, featuring total assets and liabilities of €29.545 billion, underscores the institution’s stable financial posture at the close of January 2026.

Asset Allocation And Strategic Holdings

Governor Christodoulos Patsalides issued the balance sheet, which details the CBC’s asset composition under the Eurosystem framework. Notably, the bank’s gold and gold receivables amounted to €1.635 billion, providing a significant hedge and stability to its balance sheet. Additional asset categories include claims on non-euro area residents denominated in foreign currency at €1.099 billion, while claims on euro area residents in both foreign and domestic currency add further depth to its portfolio.

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The most substantial asset category, intra-Eurosystem claims, reached €19.438 billion, an indication of the CBC’s deep integration with its European counterparts. Furthermore, euro-denominated securities held by euro area residents contributed €6.587 billion. Despite a marked emphasis on these areas, lending to euro area credit institutions in monetary policy operations recorded no activity during the period.

Liability Structure And Monetary Policy Implications

On the liabilities side, banknotes in circulation contributed €3.218 billion. Liabilities to euro area credit institutions associated with monetary policy operations were notably the largest single category, totaling €17.636 billion. Supplementary liabilities included those to other euro area residents, which aggregated to €4.989 billion, with government liabilities playing a predominant role at €4.754 billion.

Other liability items, such as claims related to special drawing rights allocated by the International Monetary Fund at €494.193 million, and provisions of €596.571 million, further articulate the CBC’s exposure. Revaluation accounts stood at €1.643 billion, and overall capital and reserves were confirmed at €333.822 million, completing the picture of a well-capitalized institution.

Conclusive Insights And Strategic Alignment

The detailed breakdown illustrates the CBC’s sizeable intra-Eurosystem exposures, reinforcing its central role within Europe’s monetary landscape. With an asset-liability balance maintained at €29.545 billion, the CBC’s financial position remains robust, indicating a commitment to structural stability and strategic risk management.

This fiscal disclosure not only provides transparency into the CBC’s operations but also serves as a benchmark for comparative analysis among other central banks within the Eurosystem, highlighting the intricate balance between asset liquidity, regulatory oversight, and monetary policy imperatives.

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