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Deep Dive

by AGPLAW

Season 1

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.

Private Wealth Strategies 2025 – 2026: Why Cyprus? When Greece or Dubai make sense?

Ultra-high-net-worth families are re-drawing their maps. The past five years rewired the rules: transparency has gone mainstream, “offshore” is out of fashion, and governments are openly competing for talent and capital. For globally mobile founders, family offices and next-generation heirs, three hubs now dominate serious conversations in EMEA: Cyprus, Greece, and Dubai (UAE). Each offers a different blend of tax, lifestyle, governance, and market access.

Reminder: Accountant-Client and ASP-Client Privilege Does Not Exist in Cyprus

In the field of professional services, clients often assume that the communications they have with their accountants, auditors, or corporate service providers are protected by a form of legal privilege, similar to the confidentiality that exists in the lawyer-client relationship. However, in Cyprus, this assumption is not just inaccurate; it carries important legal implications

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Why Early Legal Help Matters

“Justice delayed is justice denied.” In legal matters, waiting can cost you everything. From business transactions to estate planning and disputes, timing can be the difference between success and loss. This episode draws on insights from Managing Partner Angelos Paphitis, highlighting why early legal action isn’t just smart—it’s essential!

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