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The Malta Chamber and PT Matic Environmental Services Ltd Renew Bronze Sponsorship Agreement

Posted on by Mel Chamber

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry is pleased to announce the renewal of its Bronze Partnership Agreement with PT Matic Environmental Services Ltd, reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing sustainable business practices and environmental responsibility across Malta’s economic landscape.

Through this renewed partnership, PT Matic will be paired with The Malta Chamber’s Environmental Committee, enabling the company to contribute directly to the Chamber’s initiatives in sustainability and environmental stewardship. This collaboration will see PT Matic offering both its expertise and resources to support the Chamber’s mission of fostering a greener, more sustainable economy.

“We are delighted to continue our collaboration with PT Matic Environmental Services Ltd. Their long-standing experience and innovation in the environmental services sector make them an invaluable partner in our ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and environmental awareness among our members,” highlighted William Spiteri Bailey, The Malta Chamber President, ahead of the signing.

“We are proud to renew our collaboration with The Malta Chamber, reinforcing our shared commitment to sustainability through continued dialogue, innovation, and action. By working together, we aim to put forward meaningful initiatives that create tangible value for both industry and the wider community, helping to drive positive environmental and economic change. The Malta Chamber continues to serve as an inspiring platform where ideas flourish, partnerships strengthen, and private enterprise takes the lead in shaping a more sustainable, resource-efficient, and responsible future for Malta and beyond,” noted Ing. Oliver Fenech, General Manager of PT Matic Environmental Services Ltd.

The Bronze Collaboration Alliance Agreement was signed by William Spiteri Bailey, Mark Bajada and Dr Marthese Portelli, President, Deputy President and CEO of The Malta Chamber, respectively, and Ing. Oliver Fenech as General Manager of PT Matic Environmental Services Ltd.

BOV celebrates a culture of customer-centric innovation

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta (BOV) proudly marked the conclusion of its fourth edition of CX Week 2025, a transformative week dedicated to elevating customer experience across the organisation. This year’s edition was defined by dynamic engagement, cross-functional collaboration, and a renewed commitment to placing customers at the heart of every decision. From immersive frontline experiences to leadership participation and employee-driven innovation, CX Week 2025 demonstrated the power of empathy, insight, and action in shaping exceptional customer journeys.

Throughout the week, employees from non-customer-facing roles stepped into the shoes of their frontline colleagues to gain firsthand exposure to customer interactions. This initiative fostered empathy, deepened understanding of customer needs, and inspired new ways to support service teams. Senior leaders also joined frontline operations, listening to customer calls and observing daily workflows. Their hands-on participation reinforced the Bank’s leadership’s commitment to a customer-first culture and strengthened the connection between strategic direction and service delivery.

The Bank also hosted the CX Stars Recognition Event, honouring individuals and teams who exemplify excellence in customer experience. The celebration shone a spotlight on those who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding service, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

Reflecting on the week’s success, Theodoros Papadopoulos, the Bank’s Chief Customer Experience Officer shared, “I’m extremely happy because this year for the fourth time in a row, we are celebrating CX Week; a milestone we should all be proud of. Four consecutive years show our commitment to put the customer at the centre of attention of everything we do, embedding customer experience into our DNA, our values, and the way we operate as a business.”

Building on the momentum of CX Week, Bank of Valletta also launched the CX Hackathon, a new initiative that empowers employees to transform feedback and creative ideas into actionable solutions aimed at enhancing the customer experience. Over the coming days, submissions will be reviewed and employees will be invited to vote for their favourites, with the top five ideas selected for presentation. This initiative ensures that the spirit of CX Week continues to inspire meaningful innovation long after the celebrations conclude.

Later this month, the Bank will also be hosting a Voice of Customer (VOC) Event, welcoming a selection of customers who participated in recent surveys to thank them personally for their valuable feedback. The celebrations will culminate with the BOV CX Conference, returning for its second consecutive year. The conference will focus on shifting intention to impact, embedding customer experience as a shared priority and a daily practice across the organisation.

CX Week 2025 was a catalyst for innovation, empathy, and continuous improvement. As Bank of Valletta looks ahead, it remains steadfast in its commitment to listening to customers, empowering teams, and delivering exceptional experiences every day.

BOV recognised for inclusive banking and social impact by WSBI-ESBG

Posted on by Mel Chamber

During the inaugural edition of the WSBI-ESBG SDG Awards Ceremony held in Washington, D.C., Bank of Valletta (BOV) was recognised with the ‘Inclusive Banking and Social Impact Award’, highlighting its leadership and tangible contribution towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. BOV Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kenneth Farrugia, and Chief Operations Officer, Mr Ernest Agius, were presented with the award by the Chief Executive Officer of the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI), Mr Peter Simon.

The award was given in recognition of three initiatives undertaken by BOV in 2024. The first initiative was the introduction of a Staff Volunteering Programme, which enabled over 2,400 BOV employees to dedicate one working day to volunteering with local NGOs. Another initiative, which was handled together with the BOV Foundation, is a programme in collaboration with Migrant Women Association Malta, providing essential skills to migrant, asylum-seeking and refugee women for their social and economic integration in Malta. The third initiative is the annual BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, which during 2024 yielded a record-breaking sum of over €460,000, which funded improved care, therapy, and facilities.

Speaking during the Award Ceremony, BOV CEO Mr Kenneth Farrugia expressed great satisfaction that the Bank’s efforts in favour of the vulnerable members of society did not go unnoticed. “Since its foundation, Bank of Valletta has always been a catalyst for Social Inclusion and Well-being. Last year, as we celebrated our 50th anniversary, the Bank introduced a Staff Volunteering Programme, which contributed to over 3,500 hours of community service by our people. This programme has strengthened local NGO capacity and reinforced a culture of social engagement within the Bank. Now in its second year, our employees are contributing even further to this programme, registering more engagement and leaving a greater impact.”

Mr Farrugia said that “Also coinciding with the Bank’s Anniversary, last year we established the BOV Foundation, which works hand-in-hand with our CSR Team in the execution of our ambitious and ample Corporate Social Responsibility Programme”.

Elaborating further, BOV Chief Operations Officer, Mr Ernest Aguis, who also sits on the Board of the BOV Foundation, said that “One of the most impactful projects handled by the Bank and its Foundation was the collaboration with Migrant Women Association Malta. The programme focused on the social and economic integration of migrant, asylum-seeking, and refugee women. Through training led by a professional Maltese fashion designer, participants acquired skills in sewing, tailoring, and design, gaining insight into Malta’s fashion industry.

Mr Agius noted that “Since its inception, the programme saw numerous participants who have already transitioned into self-employment or landed a formal job in the tailoring industry.” Details on Bank of Valletta’s SDG alignment and why it was chosen to be rewarded are found on the WSBI-ESBG’s website.

Overlooking the 4-Day Week Implications Risks Damaging Malta’s Economy, The Malta Chamber Warns

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Decisions need to be taken sensibly rather than based on guess work

With reference to the recent proposal by the Opposition Leader for the introduction of a 4-day work week, The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry notes that while the concept of a reduced work week is a topic of global debate, it is essential to move beyond brief statements that raise more questions rather than give answers and sustainable solutions.

Implementing a 4-day work week is a multifaceted issue that requires careful and open discussion. Only through thorough and objective analysis can the interests of employers, employees, and the broader economy be safeguarded. Proposals should be presented in detail, to allow for comprehensive evaluation and feedback. Oversimplified statements on such impactful matters have far-reaching dangerous consequences for businesses, employees, and the economy at large.

A shift to a 4-day work week would have significant negative effects in several key areas, including productivity, output, labour costs, and international competitiveness. Sectors that rely heavily on physical presence or high hourly output – such as manufacturing, hospitality, health and care homes – would face immediate challenges. Malta’s current economic landscape, marked by a historically low unemployment, significant dependence on foreign labour, and low productivity, must be considered. Ignoring this context could worsen labour shortages and ultimately harm national productivity.

Before any policy or pilot program is introduced, a comprehensive national socio-economic study is essential to assess the short and long term impacts across all Malta’s economic sectors. Such research would capture the interconnectedness of Malta’s different economic sectors, something which an ad-hoc isolated pilot programme cannot.

Such a sensitive subject should not descend into a populist narrative. We need decisions to be taken sensibly rather than based on guess work. As election frenzy start building up, political parties should steer away from descending into the traditional populist game of which party or candidate promises the most – ultimately, unsound measures and irresponsible proposals will be borne by taxpayers.

Envision2050: The Next 25 Years Will Be Built on the Principle of Quality of Life

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Ronald Mizzi – Permanent Secretary Malta Vision 2050, Implementation and Coordination

In a country accustomed to short-term plans shaped by electoral cycles, proposing a 25-year vision is both innovative and bold — and it has been widely welcomed. Permanent Secretary Ronald Mizzi has been at the helm of this process, first within the Ministry for the Economy and now from the Office of the Prime Minister.

“The process has been extensive, data-driven, and grounded in research,” Mr Mizzi explains. “It draws on macro-trend analysis, a review of existing strategies, and dozens of consultation meetings since October last year. All this work gave birth to the document we have today. Malta Vision 2050 was launched last April, followed by a broad public consultation to reach all sectors of society.”

At the time of writing, the Vision document is available on envision2050.gov.mt in both Maltese and English. The consultation period has now been extended until the end of October.

The response has been remarkable, with stakeholders from across society — businesses, NGOs, civil society representatives, and citizens – not only submitting feedback but also engaging in deeper discussions with the team.

Still, Mr Mizzi acknowledges the occasional scepticism: “Some ask why we need a Vision, especially when our economy has been performing strongly in sectors such as finance and gaming, while weathering major global challenges like the pandemic and geopolitical uncertainty.”

His answer is clear: “Precisely because we are in a position of relative strength, this is the right moment to plan long-term. The era of business as usual is over. We cannot simply rest on our laurels and hope for the best.”

Malta Vision 2050 does not replace existing policies but builds on them, aligning government strategies into a single, coherent direction.

“This is a Vision from the people and for the people. We’ve taken on board input from youths, students, the private sector, the elderly, and even children. Everyone’s perspective matters as we shape the years ahead.”

At its core, the Vision is about quality of life — redefining how Malta measures progress. Economic success will no longer be judged purely by growth figures, but by how sustainable, resilient, inclusive, and resource-conscious that growth is.

The Vision rests on four main pillars:

  1. Sustainable economic growth – driven by high-value, knowledge-based sectors such as finance, gaming, advanced manufacturing, aviation, and quality tourism.
  2. People-centred services – ensuring healthcare, family support, housing, and mobility systems are modern, accessible, and tailored to citizens’ needs.
  3. Resilience and education – strengthening Malta’s capacity to adapt while equipping its workforce with the skills to thrive in future industries, ensuring social mobility along the way.
  4. Smart land and sea use – safeguarding and optimising Malta’s limited resources, always prioritising the wellbeing of its people.

To make these pillars a reality, four enablers will drive implementation: effective governance, sustainable funding, digitalisation, and a refreshed international identity under Brand Malta.

This outward-looking dimension is crucial. The Vision positions Malta as a destination that appeals not only to investors and start-ups, but also to students, quality tourists, and retirees seeking a balance of heritage and progress.

Mr Mizzi highlights the breadth of the process: “From sentiment analysis at the very start, to focus groups, stakeholder meetings, and a three-day national conference in January 2025, we have built a Vision that is evidence-based yet shaped by the people. The final version will be launched early next year, when we will invite the public to join us in celebrating a common roadmap for the next 25 years.”

HSBC Malta launches SEPA Instant Payments – faster, safer, and more cost-effective transfers across Europe

Posted on by Mel Chamber

HSBC Bank Malta has introduced SEPA Instant Outward Payments, giving customers the ability to transfer funds across the SEPA zone in a matter of seconds, anytime, any day of the year, including weekends and public holidays.

The new service, available via the HSBC Mobile Banking App, Online Banking including HSBCnet and in-branch, enables Euro transfers to be completed in under 10 seconds, offering customers speed, security, and convenience at competitive rates.

Key benefits include:

  • Instant transfers – send Euro payments within the SEPA zone 24/7, with funds reaching the beneficiary in up to 10 seconds.
  • Ease of use (personal customers only) – ability to pay a new beneficiary through HSBC Mobile App, including a new IBAN paste function in the HSBC Mobile App simplifies input, reducing errors.
  • Verification of Payee (VoP) – instantly checks that the beneficiary’s name matches the account, giving customers peace of mind before confirming a payment.
  • Transparency and reassurance – customers receive immediate confirmation once a payment is delivered, with the option to share it directly from the app.
  • Competitive pricing
    • Personal customers – transfers via HSBC Mobile App and Online Banking up to €1,000 are free, with just €1 charged for payments up to €5,000, and €4 for amounts above €5,000
    • Commercial customers – transfers up to €1,000 at €0.15 while transfers of €1,000.01 and over at €0.75

“SEPA Instant is a major step forward in how our customers can manage their money across Europe,” said Geoffrey Fichte, Chief Executive Officer at HSBC Malta. “By combining speed, safety, and cost-effectiveness, we are making everyday banking simpler and more efficient. This is another example of how we are investing in digital solutions that truly put our customers first, while also supporting the shift away from slower, less efficient methods of payment.”

HSBC Malta is proud to share that customer feedback continues to highlight our commitment to exceptional service, with customers praising the quality, responsiveness and reliability of their experience.

Customers can access SEPA Instant via the “Pay and Transfer” function on the HSBC Mobile App, HSBCnet or Online Banking, or by visiting their nearest branch. More information is available at hsbc.com.mt.

Electric vehicle charging stations installed at BOV centre

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta has installed electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at BOV Centre in Santa Venera as part of its commitment to sustainability. Seven EV charging stations, including one for motorcycles, have been set up for the benefit of employees who have access to BOV Centre, enabling them to charge their electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, or electric motorcycles while at work.

On the launch of this initiative, Chief Operations Officer Ernest Agius remarked that “as part of Malta ESG Alliance (MESGA), Bank of Valletta remains committed to leading by example from an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) perspective, continuously aiming to incorporate sustainable practices into its operations and encouraging other businesses to follow suit. This is another important milestone for the Bank, and we are encouraging employees to participate by offering preferential parking facilities as well as attractive charging rates. It is very encouraging to note the great response we’ve had since announcing the initiative.”

Whilst noting that the Bank has solar panels at several of its branches and offices, Mr Agius added that “the installation of these EV charging stations marks another step forward in the Bank’s sustainability journey, providing a convenient and eco-friendly solution for employees driving electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, or electric motorcycles.”

This initiative aligns with the Bank’s ESG strategy, as it encourages environmentally conscious behaviour among employees who have access to the BOV Centre parking area. It also helps reduce the carbon footprint by encouraging employees to transition to zero-emission vehicles, thereby improving local air quality and promoting the use of clean energy.

By providing convenient charging options at the workplace, the Bank is also relieving its employees from the stress to find EV charging stations close to their workplace, while also emphasising a commitment to environmental sustainability, which lies at the core of the Bank’s ESG strategy.

BOV launches instant outward SEPA payments

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta is pleased to announce that from Monday, 6th October, all payments made to any single euro payments area (SEPA) country by means of the Instant Outward Payments Service will be processed in seconds. Instant Payment Services have already been made available for inward payments to BOV since December 2024, and with the introduction of outward payments, BOV customers can now send faster and more flexible euro payments, any day, any time.

There are no additional charges for Instant Outward Payments Service, other than those already existent on regular SEPA Credit transfers. Customers may opt to carry out instant payments through the Bank’s mobile and internet banking platform. This is a very good opportunity for BOV customers to move away from issuing cheques, with charges cheaper than for issuing cheques, and faster availability of funds, now an added benefit.

Speaking on the new Instant Outward Payment services, BOV’s Head of eBanking Channels, Chris Degabriele said that “with over 36 countries forming part of SEPA, and payments delivered to the intended recipient in under 10 seconds, we are entering a new era of digital payments. Gone are the days when inter-bank transfers used to take up to 2-3 days to be cleared. In a fast-paced digital world, instant payments will undoubtedly change the way people pay others, whether in the same country or abroad. Furthermore, bank holidays, weekends, public holidays, and other timeframes when payments are not normally carried out are now a thing of the past, with the service available through online and mobile banking platforms 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

All third-party SEPA payment services offered by Bank of Valletta, including SEPA Instant payments, will have an added layer through a Verification of Payee (VoP) service, which verifies the authenticity of the IBAN and Payee name. Customers will be provided with options to either proceed or terminate payments, depending on the verification result obtained. This aims to pause the payment and allow customers to reconfirm the details of the payment, avoiding mistakes and possible fraud. Furthermore, a transaction monitoring system with both pre- and post-transaction checks, enhanced by AI capabilities, ensures that transactions are continuously monitored. This adds an extra layer of protection against fraudulent payments without causing any delays in instant payment delivery.

Bank of Valletta has updated its General Terms and Conditions to reflect the changes in SEPA Instant Payments, effective from the introduction of Instant Outward payments. The full document can be downloaded from https://www.bov.com/terms-and-conditions and a document containing Frequently Asked Questions about the service is available at https://www.bov.com/sepa-instant-payments.

The Malta Chamber & BOV join forces to combat the rising wave of fraud

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, targeting not only individuals but also businesses of all sizes. The reality is stark: no company is immune to their attacks.

One of the most pressing threats facing businesses today is Business Email Compromise (BEC) Fraud. Also known as the “man-in-the-middle” attack, this silent but devastating crime can drain company accounts in a matter of minutes, resulting in severe financial losses.

In 2024 alone, Bank of Valletta recorded 23 cases of BEC fraud, amounting to €1.5 million stolen from victims. Alarmingly, incidents have risen sharply in the first six months of 2025, with no signs of slowing down.

To address this growing threat, Bank of Valletta and The Malta Chamber have partnered to deliver an exclusive and practical information session, equipping business leaders and their teams with the tools to spot and stop scams before it’s too late.

In her opening remarks, Dr Marthese Portelli, The Malta Chamber CEO, highlighted that in this year’s Prebudget Document, one of The Malta Chamber’s proposals specifically focuses on business support to set up a proper cybersecurity infrastructure “We are proposing support that ranges from taking a snapshot of the status quo to understand what level of investment is required to the setting up of protocols and response planning, penetration testing and infrastructure, which support could take the form of a mix of tax credits, voucher schemes that cover 80% of the cost, and near zero interest free loans similar to the ones that were available for the purchase of electric vehicles. We also need stronger policy frameworks that encourage information-sharing and rapid response to cyber incidents. Possibly there could also be a dedicated national cyber incident response centre for businesses, offering guidance, support, and real-time alerts,” she stated.

Kenneth Farrugia, BOV CEO, noted that as more people and businesses embrace digital channels, both as a means of communication and doing business, the opportunity for fraudsters to exploit vulnerabilities within the digital space has grown exponentially. “Scams are not just a financial crime. They are a direct attack on trust, the foundation on which every business and community thrives. At Bank of Valletta, we believe that building a strong, risk-awareness culture is just as important as investing in the latest technologies. Safeguarding customers against scams calls for a united mindset. When financial institutions, regulators, businesses, and individuals join forces, we create a front line that is agile, resilient, and proactive. Bank of Valletta is proud to play its part, not just by investing in systems, but by empowering people with knowledge and equipping them with tools to act decisively in the face of threats,” he emphasised.

Ryan Caruana, Group Chief AFC & MLRO at BOV highlighted that “scams have evolved into a sophisticated global industry, exploiting technology and human behaviour alike. The only way forward is to stay smarter and faster, through prevention, awareness, and a culture that places vigilance at the core of every decision. For us at Bank of Valletta, education and awareness are the strongest defence for our customers and the wider business community.”

As a follow-up to this info session, The Malta Chamber and BOV will be launching a dedicated podcast series addressing this critical subject. Featuring insights from a range of experts, the series will examine the latest tactics fraudsters are using to target Maltese businesses while highlighting key warning signs that should prompt caution before taking action.