Breaking news

One Individual And Two Legal Entities From Cyprus In New US Sanctions

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 13, 2024

Another individual, holder of the Cypriot nationality and two companies registered in Cyprus are included in the list of new sanctions imposed by the US against Russia on Wednesday.

The US Treasury Department announced new sanctions on more than 300 individuals and entities to degrade Russia’s capability to pursue its war of aggression against Ukraine.

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

In OFAC’s updated list, Bulat Akhatovich Yanborisov, a Russian who also holds Cyprus citizenship, is included. According to a US Treasury Department press release, Russia-based Silk Way Rally Association holds an annual off-road rally race that the U.S.-designated Russian Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) uses as a front for intelligence operations.

The GRU has given awards to Bulat Akhatovich Yanborisov, the head of Silk Way, for his work. Bulat appears to use his properties in Europe as transit points for GRU officers. Bulat, who is Silk Way’s CEO and general director, alongside his son Amir Bulatovich Yanborisov, uses Silk Way’s logistical infrastructure to procure anti-UAV and radioelectronic warfare equipment for use on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Moreover, the Cyprus-registered companies Picotin Holdings Ltd and Sentimare Enterprises Ltd were also added to the list of sanctions. According to the US Department of State, the two companies are linked to Vladimir Olegovich Potanin, one of the wealthiest oligarchs in Russia, who formerly served as a Deputy Prime Minister for the Russian Federation.

Potanin has been on the sanctions list since December 2022. The Department is designating four Liechtenstein-based foundations, Paloma Foundation, Spero Foundation, Natwin Foundation, and Cafar Foundation, as well as two Cyprus-based entities, Sentimare Enterprises Ltd and Picotin Holdings Ltd and one UAE-based entity, Sentimare Me Ltd, connected to the scheme.

Given that Potanin was previously the ultimate beneficial owner of Sentimare Enterprises Ltd and his minor children’s current equal ownership of the four foundations, the US Department of State believes that Potanin retains control of the four foundations and thus the control of Sentimare Enterprises Ltd, that is controlled by the four foundations.

Moreover, it notes that Sentimare Me Ltd and Picotin Holdings Ltd are being designated for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Sentimare Enterprises Ltd, since they are both wholly owned by Sentimare Enterprises Ltd.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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

Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.