MEET THE LEADERS AND DECISION MAKERS OF OUR ECONOMY
THE NEW BEGINNINGS EDITION
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Business. Lifestyle. Design.
Who really wins?
MONEY delves into the SiGMA conference, a marquee event touted as a boon for Malta's economy. But as residents endure gridlocked streets and disrupted routines, we ask: does this event serve the "greater good," or is it a spectacle benefiting the gaming elite at the public's expense?
FDI in focus: EY survey reveals Malta's strengths and weak spots
Malta's investment landscape is spotlighted in EY's 20th Attractiveness Survey. Despite 70% of foreign investors planning to stay, challenges like talent shortages, rising costs, and infrastructure woes persist. MONEY analyses the findings, highlighting the factors driving investor confidence and the critical areas that demand immediate attention.
Data, regulation and digital transformation: Data-driven growth at the Housing Authority
Malta's private rental market has transformed remarkably, fueled by digital innovation and a surge in foreign tenants. Matthew Zerafa, chief executive officer and Brian Micallef, executive head responsible for digitalisation, legal and communications, explain how the Housing Authority's efforts—ranging from rent registers to dashboards—are setting new standards for transparency, streamlining processes, and shaping policies through data-driven insights.
BRICS: The new kid on the (power) block
Malta, a Mediterranean island famed for its sun-drenched shores and strategic location, is navigating an increasingly complex global landscape. As this small island stands on the sidelines of global power plays, the emergence of BRICS—a formidable alliance of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—brings glittering opportunities and shadowy challenges. So, what does this all mean for Malta? MONEY takes a closer look at how BRICS might shape the future of this resilient island.
Is Malta's competitiveness in crisis?
Victor Calleja interviews six of Malta's leading economic minds: Marthese Portelli, CEO of the Malta Chamber; Marisa Xuereb, former president of the Malta Chamber; Paul Bonello, economist; Ronald Attard, EY Malta country managing partner; Norman Aquilina, group chief executive of Farsons Group; and Chris Vassallo Cesareo, president of the Malta Chamber, to discuss Malta's economic journey over the past two decades as an EU member and its future challenges.
Leading the way forward through EU crises and Maltese reforms
Having been re-elected as President of the European Parliament in July 2024, Roberta Metsola remains a leader of one of the three central decision-making institutions in Brussels and the EU. MONEY asks about her plans and priorities in her continued role in light of brewing conflict on EU borders and her thoughts on specific sectors within the local context of Malta.
Quo vadis? The future of malta's economy
What lies ahead for Malta's financial services in the coming years? We now have a national strategy, but Vanessa Macdonald asked some of the country's influential stakeholders how they see things.
Triple Coverage
Dayna Camilleri Clarke recently had the opportunity to sit down with the executive directors, Mark Jr. and Keith Laferla, along with senior management team member Kevin Laferla. During their discussion, they delved into the pillars of their success, the impact of family dynamics on their business, and their exciting plans for pioneering innovation in the years to come.
Revolutionising electronic banking, the 50-year journey of card business and e-banking at BOV
The card business and e-banking have revolutionised the financial sector, bringing unparalleled convenience and accessibility to clients. At Bank of Valletta, these advancements have been pivotal, marking significant milestones in the bank's history and the local market. To delve deeper into this evolution, we sat down with Chris Degabriele, Head of E-Banking at Bank of Valletta.
From barriers to boardrooms
The battle of the sexes rages on, especially in the business arena. Sarah Curmi, Maria Cauchi Delia, and Rose Marie Azzopardi are all involved in the world of finance and economics, albeit in different areas. Giselle Borg Olivier speaks to these three women about women's (developing) role in the finance industry.
Open banking: Lessons from the UK and the road ahead
Open banking has revolutionised the financial sector globally, with the UK setting a prime example of successful implementation. Despite this, Malta lags. JP Fabri explores how Malta can learn from the UK's experience to foster innovation, enhance efficiency, and understand the pivotal role of the government in overcoming potential market limitations.
From bricks to bonds
Over recent years, local investors have increased their focus on the Maltese real estate market. This attention highlights planning concerns, oversupply issues, and housing affordability challenges. Josef Cutajar, financial analyst, and Justin Mizzi, real estate valuer, on the central role of real estate in the Maltese capital market.
Between the grey and the white
Manuel Delia investigates how the changes in regulation and oversight have reshaped industries, often with severe consequences for smaller businesses and charities.
Malta's next 20 years: Building a future-ready economy
This year marks Malta's 20th anniversary of EU membership, which has driven significant transformation and unparalleled growth. Theo Dix reflects on the nation's journey and plans for a sustainable and prosperous future amidst rising population and economic challenges.
Developing a sustainable real estate ecosystem
JP Fabri explores the current state of Malta's real estate, European movements towards sustainability, and lessons from global benchmarks that could help Malta align with international standards and foster a safe, efficient, and sustainable real estate ecosystem.
65 Years of Harmony: Natuzzi Italia Unveils Anniversary Collection at Milan Design Week 2024
Natuzzi Italia celebrated its 65th anniversary during Milan Design Week 2024 with events and projects honouring its journey towards harmony.
UNLOCKING THE KEYS TO COMBAT MONEY LAUNDERING
In the intricate web of financial crime, one term reigns supreme: money laundering (ML). As the key players in the real estate sector, awareness of this damaging practice is not just advisable; it is imperative.
Recruit-ing Success: A decade of growth with M Recruitment's Duncan Fenech
Delve into the world of recruitment as Duncan Fenech, founder and CEO of M Recruitment, sits down with Dayna Camilleri Clarke to reflect on a decade of remarkable growth and innovation.
The illusion of preservation: Government's superficial planning reforms for Gozo
Victor Paul Borg delves into the government's recent planning brief to preserve Gozo's character by mandating the use of globigerina limestone for new buildings. Announced on 14 February, this measure mirrors a 2015 policy, raising questions about the effectiveness and sincerity of these so-called reforms.
Fighting the Ecomafia
Manuel Delia delves into the sinister operations of these environmental bandits and the emerging legal battles aimed at curbing their destructive ambitions.