Cyprus Business Now

PwC Foundation’s “Volunteering Days” are underway, marking a week dedicated to community engagement and societal contribution, according to an announcement released by the company this week.

With 220 PwC volunteers actively involved, the initiative spans from December 4th to 8th, aligning with the International Volunteer Day on December 5.

These efforts signify PwC Cyprus’ dedication to creating a positive impact through its PwC Foundation.

Among the diverse activities, volunteers have engaged in various impactful initiatives. This includes supporting Karaiskakio Foundation’s Advent Calendar, baking festive treats for the Alkionides Foundation, and collecting clothes and goods for SPAVO, an association focusing on violence prevention in families.

Other ongoing activities include aiding the Sophia Foundation for a children’s Christmas Bazaar, interacting with shelter dogs at 2nd Chance Dogs to enhance their adoptability, and creating a vibrant atmosphere at Evangelismos Special School by adding colourful drawings to the walls.

Volunteers are also involved in farm maintenance at Farm House Aradippou, organising outdoor areas for children and parents at Monadika Xamogela, and supporting Agkalia Zois Bazaar, a fundraising event aimed at providing school equipment and mental health seminars.

Additionally, joint initiatives with Strovolos Municipality and NGOs are underway for cleaning and revitalising Agiou Demetriou Park, aiming to create a welcoming space for children and their families.

The scope of the volunteering days extends beyond local engagement, with blood donation drives at PwC offices in Nicosia and Limassol and support for the Cyprus Red Cross Society’s sorting and distribution of donated clothes.

Furthermore, as part of Movember Cyprus’ men’s health awareness campaign, PwC Cyprus members participated by growing and then shaving their moustaches.

In a significant move, PwC Cyprus, in collaboration with the PwC Foundation, diverted funds meant for client and associate gifts for the year 2023 towards supporting the “One Dream One Wish” association.

This initiative aims to fulfil the wishes of children with cancer and related diseases, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to social responsibility and community welfare.

Philippos Soseilos, CEO of PwC Cyprus and President of PwC Foundation, noted that “we are profoundly inspired by the passion and dedication shown by our volunteers”.

“This initiative is a tangible expression of our core values at PwC, where we strive for making a meaningful impact in all communities,” he added, noting that “it’s more than just volunteering, it’s about creating lasting change and fostering a spirit of unity and support that extends far beyond this week”.

“I am proud to lead an organisation where commitment to well-being and contribution to society as a whole is an integral part of our identity,” Soseilos concluded.

The CEO of the National Bank of Greece (Cyprus) George Agioutantis on Thursday expressed the institution’s commitment to bolstering its presence on the island and contributing to sustainable economic development.

Agioutantis made this announcement during his speech at the Banking Forum & FinTech EXPO which took place in Nicosia.

Agioutantis highlighted the ongoing transformation in the banking industry, underlining its influence on both banking operations and consumer experiences.

He emphasised the necessity of adopting new digital platforms in response to this dynamic environment.

Describing the continuous revolutionary impact within the sector, Agioutantis said he expected that automation would significantly support customer journeys.

Moreover, he also referenced the blockchain, noting its potential influence on transparency and addressing various significant trends, challenges, and opportunities for the banking sector.

The Cyprus Stock Exchange (CSE) ended Thursday, December 7 with profits.

The general Cyprus Stock Market Index was at 134.63 points at 12:57 during the day, reflecting an increase of 0.11 per cent over the previous day of trading.

The FTSE / CySE 20 Index was at 81.75 points, representing a rise of 0.09 per cent.

The total value of transactions came up to €314,955 until the aforementioned time during trading.

In terms of the sub-indexes, the main index rose by 0.14 per cent, while the investment firm and alternative indexes fell by 1.38 per cent and 0.4 per cent respectively. The hotel index remained unchanged.

The biggest investment interest was attracted by the Bank of Cyprus (+1.52 per cent), Demetra Holdings (-1.43 per cent), Logicom (+0.68 per cent), KEO PLC (-0.63 per cent), and Salamis Tours (+0.58 per cent).