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In continuation of our successful survey which took place last year, and in an effort to build on valuable and quality conclusions, we are pleased to announce the relaunch of the “DPO (Data Protection Officer) function” survey. This year, the survey is carried out with the collaboration of 10 other Grant Thornton member firms across Europe.

Machine Learning is, as its name defines it, a machine who learns. The first reference of Machine Learning dates back to 1959 and attributed to artificial intelligence and computer gaming pioneer; Arthur Lee Samuel. 63 years later and “self-teaching computers” (another term for Machine Learning) are revolutionising every industry, from healthcare to finance, marketing, and agriculture.

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that creates new content such as text, images, music, or even ideas. Unlike traditional AI, which follows rules to provide answers, generative AI leverages what it has learned from large datasets and uses it to produce something following a request from a user.

On 25 October 2024, the Cyprus Tax Department (“CTD”) released an announcement informing all taxpayers that the Council of Ministers in their latest meeting decided to extend the date of submission of the Income Tax Return, for persons who have an obligation to submit a SIT for their controlled transactions for 2022 and 2023 as follows: • Income Tax Return 2022: extension until 28 February 2025 • Income Tax Return 2023: extension until 30 November 2025

On 02 October 2024, the European Banking Authority (EBA) published its Work Programme for 2025, outlining its plan to fulfil its mission and mandates for the upcoming year, based on EU legislation and its founding regulation. The Programme supports broader EU financial sector priorities, organized into five key areas for the next three years: (i) the EU Single Rulebook, (ii) Financial stability, (iii) Data management, (iv) Oversight of DORA and MiCAR and (v) conduct and AML/CFT supervision. In more detail, in 2025, EBA will address a wide range of mandates related to the financial sector, with a strong focus on implementing the EU banking package (CRR III/CRD VI) to further develop the EU Single Rulebook. Its ongoing analyses, risk metrics and stress – testing methodologies aim to ensure financial stability and address risks from economic and geopolitical developments. Additionally, the EBA will begin overseeing critical 3rd party IT services under DORA and supervising significant crypto – asset providers under MiCAR. It will also establish a new EU AML – CFT framework.

With the slogan "Right to food for a better life and a better future," World Food Day brings to the forefront one of the most serious challenges of our time: food waste. Every year, millions of people suffer from hunger and food insecurity, while about one-third of the food produced globally ends up in the trash. This paradox not only highlights social inequalities but also worsens environmental issues such as climate change, as food waste also means wasting resources like water, energy, and labor.

In an era defined by climate change, businesses are increasingly recognizing the critical need to take real action. "Net zero" has evolved from an environmental goal to a core business imperative, shaping strategies for long-term success and resilience. As the global economy slowly but steadily shifts toward sustainability, companies that fail to adapt, risk being left behind. Achieving net zero emissions is no longer just about environmental responsibility—it's a pathway to innovation, financial stability, and future-proofing operations in an unpredictable world. A resilient future depends on businesses that lead the charge toward carbon neutrality.

The publication from BIS highlights the significance of climate scenario analysis in financial institutions, particularly in the context of emerging regulatory standards. The increasing awareness of climate change as a global risk has led to a need for more advanced methods of assessing potential financial impacts. Climate Scenario analysis provides a forward – looking approach, which is crucial in navigating the uncertain landscape of climate – related risks. The publication also emphasizes the growing challenges associated with the adoption of these methods. To address these challenges and enhance transparency, regulatory bodies such as the ISSB, have introduced new standards, which aim to improve the quality of climate – related disclosures.

The publication from the EBA sets out the priorities for resolution authorities for 2025 and reports on the progress achieved in 2023. It focuses on ensuring the effective implementation of resolution strategies, enhancing management information systems for valuation, and improving liquidity strategies during resolution. The report also highlights the challenges encountered and the measures taken by resolution authorities to improve banks' resolvability and readiness to handle financial crises effectively.

It’s not a surprise that nowadays the rise of influencers has reshaped the landscape of traditional marketing worldwide, including Cyprus. Influencers, utilise social media platforms – Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok – to become powerful faces for different brands. However, as the influencer industry continues to grow, so do the complexities surrounding its taxation, particularly Value Added Tax (VAT).

On 20 May 2024, the Cyprus Tax Department (“CTD”) released an announcement informing all taxpayers that the final version of the Summarized Information Table(“SIT”) is now available and can be submitted through the Tax For All (“TFA”) portal

Since the enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in May 2018, European Union member states, have been dealing with the implications and requirements of this landmark legislation. The GDPR is an improved reconstruction of data protection directives and laws from the past, for member states to keeping up pace with the rapid technological developments and globalisation that have been changing the way in which personal data are collected, accessed, and used. In Cyprus, as in other EU member states, Data Protection Officers (DPOs) play a crucial role in overseeing GDPR compliance within organizations.

In the realm of financial risk management, particularly within the ambit of Basel regulations, the Advanced Internal Rating-Based (AIRB) approach stands as a cornerstone for banks and financial institutions aiming to optimise their capital allocation while adhering to stringent regulatory standards.

Autonomous (driverless) cars, customer support chatbots, Alexa and Netflix suggestions are a few examples of AI that have already changed our lives. AI of course stands for Artificial Intelligence! But what does it really mean?

On 23 February 2024, a Decree was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic, extending the statutory deadline for the submission of the Income Tax Return for the tax year of 2022 from 31 March 2024 to 30 November 2024.

Welcome to the 2024 edition of Cyprus Tax Facts. We are delighted to present our updated comprehensive guide, offering essential insights into the latest advancements in tax legislation.