Breaking news

New Legislation To Bolster Cyprus’s Position In Collective Investment Schemes

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 2, 2024

The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) recently announced a new legislative initiative aimed at strengthening Cyprus’s position in the global arena of collective investment schemes. As reported, this development marks a significant step forward for the Cypriot financial sector, positioning it as a more competitive and attractive destination for investment funds.

Overview of the Legislation

The new legislation introduces several reforms designed to enhance the regulatory framework governing collective investment schemes in Cyprus. These reforms are intended to align Cyprus with international best practices, ensuring that the country remains an attractive and competitive location for fund managers and investors.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Key aspects of the legislation include:

Enhanced Regulatory Oversight: The new measures will bolster the regulatory oversight of investment funds, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. This will help mitigate risks and protect investors, fostering greater confidence in the Cypriot financial market.
Streamlined Processes: The legislation aims to simplify administrative procedures, making it easier and more efficient to establish and operate investment funds in Cyprus. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, the country can attract more fund managers and streamline operations for existing ones.
Tax Incentives: To further attract international investment, the legislation includes provisions for favourable tax treatment of investment funds. These incentives are designed to make Cyprus a more appealing jurisdiction for collective investments, enhancing its competitive edge in the global market.
Innovation and Flexibility: The reforms promote innovation within the investment funds sector by providing greater flexibility in fund structures and operations. This includes accommodating a variety of investment strategies and asset classes, which can attract a broader range of investors.

The introduction of this legislation is poised to have several positive implications for Cyprus’s economy and its financial sector.

The financial industry in Cyprus has welcomed the new legislation, recognising its potential to drive growth and enhance the country’s position in the global investment landscape. The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) has been a key advocate for these reforms, highlighting the benefits they bring to both local and international stakeholders.

Industry experts anticipate that the reforms will attract a new wave of investment funds to Cyprus, leveraging the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and favourable business environment. The legislative changes are seen as a proactive move to adapt to the evolving global financial landscape and meet the needs of modern investors.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.