Wizz Air Halts Israel Flights Amid Security Fears: Impact On Cyprus And Beyond

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 26, 2024

Wizz Air, a prominent low-cost European airline, has temporarily suspended its operations to and from Israel, citing escalating security risks in the region. This decision primarily affects flights between Tel Aviv and various European cities, including those connecting with Cyprus, a key market for the airline. The suspension underscores the volatile security environment in Israel, which has prompted Wizz Air to prioritise passenger safety above all else.

The suspension comes at a critical time for both the airline and travellers. Wizz Air has been steadily expanding its presence in the Eastern Mediterranean, with Israel being one of its key markets. The airline operates multiple routes between Tel Aviv and major European hubs, making this suspension a significant disruption for both business and leisure travellers.

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For Cyprus, the impact is particularly notable given the close ties and frequent travel between the two countries. The suspension could lead to reduced connectivity and increased travel costs for passengers, as they may need to seek alternative airlines or routes. Moreover, the suspension may also affect tourism, a key sector for both Israel and Cyprus, especially during the peak travel season.

Wizz Air’s decision reflects the broader challenges airlines face in navigating geopolitical instability. The airline has indicated that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as conditions evolve. Passengers affected by the suspension have been advised to check Wizz Air’s official channels for information on flight resumptions, refunds, or alternative travel arrangements.

This suspension is not unprecedented; airlines often adjust their operations in response to security threats, balancing the need to maintain service with the imperative of ensuring passenger safety. However, the timing and scale of Wizz Air’s decision highlight the growing concerns over security in the region and the potential ripple effects on international travel.

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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.

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