CIFA: Investment Funds on a growth trajectory in 2024

The Cyprus Investment Funds Association (CIFA) has shared an optimistic outlook for 2024, anticipating another favorable year for the Investment Funds sector in Cyprus, despite facing challenges and prevailing uncertainties.

A CIFA announcement notes that, in 2023, the Cypriot Investment Funds were required to exhibit resilience and bolster the growth dynamic of the Cypriot economy, a goal they substantially achieved.

Their investments in Cyprus neared €3 billion, concurrently fostering new, well-paid, highly specialised employment opportunities. Furthermore, significant milestones, such as hosting the 36th annual international conference of the International Investment Funds Association (IIFA) for the first time in Cyprus from October 23-25, 2023, underscore the nation's emergence as a primary European hub for international Investment Funds and Managers. This development has given rise to a fresh business ecosystem, aiding in diversifying the country's economic framework. Currently, there are over 250 licensed Collective Investment Organisations with operations, managing assets exceeding €10 billion and playing a crucial role in both direct and indirect job creation for thousands.

As a sector heavily influenced by global developments, CIFA anticipates that 2024 will again present significant challenges for Investment Funds. Nevertheless, Cyprus has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability as a destination, partly attributed to the constructive approach consistently adopted by institutions such as the Ministry of Finance, the House of Representatives, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, and Invest Cyprus. CIFA is confident that this proactive stance will continue into the new year, furthering the positive impact of Investment Funds on the Cypriot economy.

Andreas Yiasemides, President of CIFA, remarks: "Amidst challenging conditions, Investment Funds have proven to be a crucial pillar of the Cypriot economy. They have driven the creation of new specialised job positions, significantly supported key sectors with capital, and contributed to both the diversification and modernisation of the country's economic model. We firmly believe that in 2024, the role of Collective Investment Organisations and all sector professionals will be instrumental in the broader endeavor for economic and social well-being in Cyprus."