CySEC marks decade of social impact with first annual CSR review

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) published its first comprehensive annual review on Monday, detailing a decade of corporate social responsibility and a strategic pivot towards environmental, social, and governance principles.

The report, titled “Navigating Change: The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission Social Impact Annual Review 2025”, outlined the regulator’s stated commitment to transparency by listing and tracking its activities on a yearly basis.

“As a regulator, we have a duty to lead by example,” stated CySEC chairman George Theocharides.

“Responsible governance is not limited to supervision; it extends to how we operate as an organisation and how we contribute to society,” Theocharides added.

The report highlighted that the organisation views promoting financial literacy as a strategic priority, describing it as “essential to empower individuals to make sound decisions about their money, and drive overall economic growth and stability.”

Recorded achievements in 2025 included the contribution of 20 litres of blood to the national supply system, part of a long-standing initiative that has reportedly seen staff donate 658 litres over the last 12 years.

Moreover, the commission’s Christmas Charity Bazaar raised €4,256 for local causes, providing support to groups such as the Nicosia Special School, the Cyprus Anti-Cancer Society, and the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” campaign.

Staff also participated in a charity book fair for the fourth consecutive year in collaboration with the Alkinoos Artemiou Foundation to support children with oncological conditions.

Additionally, the regulator contributed to the costs of the Cypriot delegation for the national qualifying round of the International Economics Olympiad.

Environmental efforts were quantified in the report, noting an annual saving in electricity consumption of 27,496 kilowatts between 2004 and 2025.

An Energy Savings Officer now monitors consumption and makes recommendations, according to the document, which cites the automation of processes as a factor in reducing paper and ink usage.

CySEC also reported saving €1,506 in ink usage specifically during the 2024 to 2025 period while focusing on paper recycling and disposing of non-usable assets.

Regarding human capital, the Commission noted its Great Place to Work Certification received in 2022, which it attributes to its efforts in maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment.

Care for personnel was a key pillar in 2025, with a dedicated Mental Health Week featuring professional lectures and messages intended to reduce stigma and promote mindfulness and resilience.

Solidarity was further demonstrated through participation in initiatives such as “Ice Cream Day” and “Martaki 2025” for Telethon Cyprus.

The organisation stated it ensures workplace accessibility through step-free access, adapted workstations, and inclusive digital meeting practices for colleagues with mobility impairments.

Flexible work arrangements, including a modified summer schedule in August and a remote work framework, are applied with the aim of supporting work-life balance and operational efficiency.

Staff recognition is formalised through the CySEC Staff Awards, where employees nominate colleagues in categories like “Effective Professional Communication” and “Active Workplace Empathy.”

“I am particularly proud of the active participation of CySEC’s people in these initiatives, which were undertaken with enthusiasm, cooperation and a genuine sense of contribution,” Theocharides noted.

The report confirms that the organisation adheres to the Public Finance Responsibility Law, with its budget reviewed by the Finance Ministry and approved by Parliament.

Financial statements are audited by external auditors and the Auditor General before being published on the official website to provide full public oversight.

Looking forward to 2026, the regulator stated it remains dedicated to “empowering society through financial literacy” and strengthening institutional credibility.

“Together, we will continue navigating change, responsibly, sustainably, and with purpose,” the report concluded.