For a second consecutive year, Bank of Valletta has been recognised for ‘Excellence in Inclusive Banking and Social Impact’ at the the WSBI-ESBG Awards. Presented during the second edition of the international awards in Thailand, the recognition highligted the Bank’s tangible contribution towards advancing the United Nations Social Development Goals. The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) and the European Savings Bank Group (ESBG), jointly set up an international banking network representing savings and retail banks globally through WSBI and at European level through ESBG, particularly in policy, regulatory, financial-inclusion and responsible-banking matters.
Bank of Valletta CEO, Kenneth Farrugia, received the award from Mr Peter Simon, Chief Executive Officer of the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute. BOV’s nomination focused on a number of social initiatives undertaken during 2025, which strengthened the Bank’s role as a cornerstone of national solidarity through targeted investment and long-standing partnerships with trusted NGOs.
The initiatives recognised include the Bank’s annual support to the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation through its donation to L-Istrina and the BOV Piggy Bank Campaign, its partnership with Richmond Foundation in support of Mental Health First Aid Programmes, which reached 6,747 students and 441 educators across Malta and Gozo, and its long-term partnership with Hospice Malta, which supports more than 1,500 families every year. BOV is also funding the refurbishment of a residential hall at St Michael Hospice and supporting Hospice Malta’s Job Shadowing Programme. The nomination further highlighted the Bank’s partnership with Julian’s Pathfinder Foundation, supporting gifted and often underserved learners through residential, small-group and expert-led programmes.
Reacting to the recognition, Kenneth Farrugia said, “At Bank of Valletta, social responsibility is not an activity that runs alongside our business; it is an integral part of who we are. This award acknowledges the passion and dedication of our employees and partners, who continue to invest their time, skills, and energy in initiatives that make a meaningful difference to vulnerable members of society. Receiving this award once again is a source of encouragement and reinforces our belief that meaningful change is achieved through sustained commitment. Over the years, we have continued to expand our support for communities through volunteering, philanthropy, and strategic partnerships. The BOV Foundation continues to play a pivotal role in the Bank’s wider social responsibility efforts, complementing the work of our CSR team and supporting initiatives that address real community needs.”
The full SDG 2026 Report is available here.
