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Deep Dive

by AGPLAW

Season 1

Beyond MiCA Authorisation: What Crypto Firms Need to Do Next

In this episode, we examine the final phase of the European crypto-asset market's transition under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). We discuss the end of the grandfathering period on 1 July 2026, the requirement for all Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs) to obtain formal authorisation to operate within the EEA, and the increasing regulatory focus on operational compliance, including new knowledge and competence standards for staff. We also explore the consequences for firms that fail to secure authorisation, the wind-down obligations designed to protect clients, and how MiCA is establishing a harmonised regulatory framework that is reshaping the future of the European crypto-asset market.

CySEC Circular C754 ESMA CrossBorder Reporting for Cyprus Investment Firms

In this podcast episode, we discuss CySEC Circular C754, which introduced a new ESMA reporting requirement for certain Cyprus Investment Firms (CIFs) providing cross-border investment services across the EEA under the passporting regime. We explain who is affected, what information firms must report through the ESMA Cross-Border Online Questionnaire, and why this initiative reflects the EU's increasing focus on strengthening oversight, transparency, and investor protection in cross-border financial services.

Lessons for EMIs and Regulated Entities from Administrative Court Judgment No. 9752020

In this episode, we examine the key lessons from Administrative Court Judgment No. 975/2020 and what it means for EMIs and other regulated entities in Cyprus. The Administrative Court's Judgment No. 975/2020 confirms that regulatory licences in Cyprus are conditional upon continuous compliance and may be revoked where ongoing legal and supervisory obligations are not met. Upholding the Central Bank of Cyprus' decision to revoke an EMI licence, the Court reaffirmed regulators' broad supervisory discretion, emphasising that regulated entities must be able to demonstrate active compliance at all times. The judgment also makes clear that dormant licences, future promises of compliance, and claims of reputational or economic harm are insufficient to challenge lawful regulatory action, reinforcing the importance of proactive compliance for all regulated entities, including those supervised by CySEC.

Transparency vs. Privacy: The CJEU Beneficial Ownership Landmark Judgment.

In this episode we examine the evolving regulatory landscape for trusts in Cyprus and the wider European Union, focusing on the tension between anti-money laundering transparency and privacy rights. They highlight the 2026 CyTBOR reforms in Cyprus, which mandate that trustees maintain precise, updated records of beneficial owners such as settlors, protectors, and beneficiaries. Central to this legal shift are the landmark CJEU rulings in cases C-37/20 and C-601/20, which invalidated unrestricted public access to ownership registers to protect individuals from security risks and data misuse. Consequently, while competent authorities retain access to sensitive data for law enforcement, the reforms ensure that trust confidentiality is preserved against disproportionate public disclosure.

SOLAS Amendments & Container Loss Reporting 2026

In this episode, we examine the major SOLAS amendments that entered into force on 1 January 2026, changes that are reshaping safety, compliance, and operational responsibilities across the shipping industry. We’ll explore the new requirements for fire safety systems in Ro-Ro and vehicle spaces, the introduction of mandatory roll-motion monitoring to improve navigational safety, and updated certification rules formally recognizing containerships in statutory documents. We’ll also take a closer look at the landmark new obligation to report containers lost at sea without delay, a significant step by the IMO aimed at improving maritime safety, environmental protection, and transparency in global shipping.

Secured Lending in Cyprus 2026

In this episode of Deep Dive, we explore why Cyprus continues to stand out as a strategic hub for cross-border financing. Managing Partner Angelos Paphitis outlines the fundamentals of secured lending, while Partner Lia Iordanou Theodoulou brings a practical perspective on how security over tangible assets works in real transactions. A focused and insightful discussion for anyone involved in lending, structuring, or investing.

Fitch Revises Cyprus Outlook to Positive and Affirms at A-

Fitch Ratings has revised Cyprus’ sovereign outlook to Positive and affirmed the country’s rating at A-, according to its latest announcement dated 21 November 2025, keeping Cyprus firmly within the investment-grade category. While the rating level remains unchanged, the signal from Fitch is clear: Cyprus is demonstrating consistent economic strength, disciplined fiscal policy, and resilience, even in a period marked by global uncertainty and regional instability.

The New Era of MENA - EU Transactions | Why Cyprus is the Gateway Jurisdiction

Cross-border legal and commercial activity between the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and the European Union has entered a new era. Geopolitical realignments, ambitious national development strategies across the Gulf, regulatory tightening in Europe, and unprecedented private capital growth have all contributed to a dramatic rise in outbound and inbound investment .More regional companies are expanding into Europe, and more European groups are seeking stable access to the markets of the Gulf, Levant, and broader MENA region. Within this evolving landscape, Cyprus has quietly but decisively positioned itself as the gateway jurisdiction through which these transactions are structured, executed and governed.

VAT on Commercial Property Leasing in Cyprus: What Landlords Should Know

This episode provides a detailed overview of the Value Added Tax (VAT) regulations concerning commercial property leasing in Cyprus, following amendments made in 2017. It explains that the law changed to allow landlords, both individuals and companies, to opt to charge VAT (currently 19%) on the rent of commercial premises, which was previously generally exempt. This option is irrevocable once exercised for a specific property and is primarily beneficial because it allows landlords to recover input VAT they paid during the property's acquisition or construction.

Taxation of Passive Income in Cyprus – The Company Advantage

Understanding how passive income is taxed in Cyprus, and how the use of a Cyprus company can change the effective tax outcome, is essential for investors, entrepreneurs, and family offices. This article provides a practical overview of the taxation of passive income in Cyprus, the advantages of using a company, and how careful structuring can optimize returns.

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