From Boardroom to Chessboard: Dealio’s Loukas Kefalas Represents Cyprus at the 45th Chess Olympiad

The 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, held from 10th to 23rd September 2024, was a landmark event in the chess world. With 197 teams from 195 countries competing, it was a truly global affair. This Olympiad was especially memorable for India, who made history by winning gold in both the open and women’s sections—a first for the country. 

For us at Dealio, however, the real highlight was seeing our colleague Loukas Kefalas represent Cyprus with unwavering dedication and resilience. Competing in eight out of eleven rounds, Loukas put in a tremendous effort, helping his team climb from their initial seeding of 111th to a respectable 93rd place among 189 countries. It wasn’t an easy journey, but Loukas gave it his all, playing with heart and determination. 

Reflecting on his experience, Loukas shared, “The Chess Olympiad has been a remarkable experience getting the chance to share my passion for chess with players all over the world. Playing at this global event under the Cyprus flag is something I am very honoured and proud of. I’m grateful for Dealio’s support through this unique journey and excited for what the future awaits here at Dealio and at the chessboard.” 

His words capture the essence of his Olympiad journey—pride in representing his country and appreciation for the support he received. Loukas’ story is one of perseverance, embodying the same qualities he brings to his work as a data analyst at Dealio. Just as he navigates the complexities of chess, Loukas tackles challenges in financial markets with the same analytical mindset and dedication. 

It’s not just about winning or losing; it’s about putting your best foot forward, learning from every move, and pushing yourself to new heights. Loukas’ performance is a testament to this spirit, both on the chessboard and in his professional life. His journey in Budapest serves as an inspiration to all of us at Dealio, reminding us of the value of hard work and passion in achieving our goals. 

We are incredibly proud of Loukas and the Cypriot team for their efforts and achievements. Competing at this level is no small feat, and the progress they made is a reflection of their determination and teamwork. We look forward to supporting more of our team members as they pursue their passions and continue to achieve great things, both within and beyond the professional realm. 

Congratulations to Loukas Kefalas and the Cyprus team for representing their country and Dealio with such dedication. Here’s to many more successes, both on the chessboard and in the exciting future ahead at Dealio!