By Naeem Aslam European and US futures are trading with extreme caution on Wednesday as traders are reluctant to make any big moves ahead of two important events. Observing the day’s price action reveals a tense atmosphere, because the US CPI report and the Fed’s monetary policy decision, followed by their press conference, are … Read more
Fact: Cyprus will host an international meeting of interior ministers to discuss migration, with a focus on declaring parts of Syria safe for migrants to return.
A shortage of banknotes in Gaza is causing chaos, with only a few ATMs operational in the southern city of Rafah. Residents are facing long waits and sometimes paying fees to access cash, as armed gangs exploit the situation. The conflict has led to a lack of liquidity in the enclave, with hundreds of millions of shekels stuck in bank vaults. Essential goods remain scarce, and some merchants are profiteering from the shortage by charging high commissions. Gaza’s economy relies heavily on Israel, which has blocked cash imports since the start of the war.
South Africans will vote in a national election on May 29 with uncertainty about the outcome, as polls suggest the African National Congress may lose its majority after 30 years in power. Key issues include high unemployment rates, sluggish economic growth, power cuts, corruption scandals, high rates of violent crime, and rising anti-immigrant sentiment. The government is working to address these issues, with a focus on job creation, economic growth, and tightening immigration laws.
Fact: The World Health Organization (WHO) projects a 10 million shortfall of healthcare workers by 2030 globally.
Columbia University students agreed to take down a significant number of tents set up on the school’s main campus as part of a protest against Israel’s incursion into Gaza. The university agreed to extend the deadline for the encampment to be dismantled, citing significant progress in negotiations. The protesters had demanded disclosure and divestment of financial holdings supporting the war in Gaza and amnesty for suspended students. Columbia also required that non-affiliated individuals leave campus and that all activities comply with fire safety rules.
Cyprus cannot accept any more Syrian refugees.
Around ten EU member states are in agreement with Cyprus regarding the reclassification of certain areas in Syria from unsafe to safe.
Fact: Organizations need to take appropriate cybersecurity precautions to protect their operations, data security, and reputation from technical threats in today’s digital age.
The new permanent residency by investment program in Cyprus allows applicants to make investments in real estate, share capital of a company, or units of a collective investment organization. Applicants must also prove they have a secure annual income of at least €50,000. The program promotes foreign investments in Cyprus, supporting local businesses and regional development.