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Payabl and Mastercard Celebrate 12 Years of Strategic Partnership

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 27, 2024

Payabl, a prominent payments processing company, is commemorating 12 years of its strategic partnership with Mastercard, a collaboration that has significantly shaped its trajectory in the competitive fintech industry. Since its inception, this partnership has empowered Payabl to tap into Mastercard’s vast network and cutting-edge technology, enhancing its ability to deliver seamless, secure, and innovative payment solutions to a diverse global clientele.

Over the past decade, the partnership has been pivotal in helping Payabl expand its reach, especially in the fast-growing digital payments sector. By leveraging Mastercard’s technological expertise and global infrastructure, Payabl has been able to offer robust solutions tailored to the needs of businesses navigating the complexities of the digital economy. This has been particularly important as the payments landscape has evolved, with increased demand for secure, fast, and flexible payment options.

The partnership also underscores the value of strong collaborations in the fintech world, where rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer expectations require agility and innovation. For Payabl, the relationship with Mastercard has not only provided the necessary tools and support to stay ahead of the curve but has also reinforced its reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking player in the payments processing industry.

As Payabl looks to the future, its partnership with Mastercard will likely continue to be a cornerstone of its growth strategy. The company is poised to further innovate and expand its offerings, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the digital payments revolution. This enduring alliance highlights how strategic partnerships between established financial giants and agile fintech firms can drive industry-wide progress, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

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.

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.