Author: Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta celebrated the achievements of over 120 employees at the 2024 Graduation Ceremony held on Friday, 22nd November at the Phoenicia Hotel. The event highlighted the Bank’s commitment to its people, showcasing its role as an employer of choice through cutting-edge learning programs and a culture driven by innovation and excellence.

People First: Investing in Careers

The evening was a celebration of the Bank’s ongoing efforts to empower its employees. The Bank offers professional training courses across a broad spectrum of subjects. Testament of the high standard of its courses is the recognition received from the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) through its accreditation of several courses offered by the Bank. In fact, BOV is licensed as a Higher Education Institution (License Number: 2018-003).

Innovative programs launched this year include the Leadership Programme for the Bank’s Executive Team and  Heads, and Unleash, aimed at developing future leaders capable of navigating the complexities of today’s financial industry. Initiatives such as the ESG e-learning program further underscore the Bank’s commitment to integrate sustainability into its operations and workforce training.

“We are proud to see 120 plus of our colleagues take significant steps forward in their careers through the BOV Academy,” said Kenneth Farrugia, the Bank’s CEO. “Our focus on excellence and innovation ensures that we equip our people with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a fast-changing financial landscape. Together, we’re building a workforce that sets new standards for success.”

Transforming Learning: Numbers That Speak

In 2024, the Bank delivered more than 112,000 training hours, through classroom, e-learning as well as external training, covering a diverse range of topics including leadership development, digital transformation, banking expertise, and team collaboration. Programs were tailored to align with the Bank’s strategic goals, ensuring employees are prepared to meet business challenges head-on.

“Bank of Valletta is leading the way in redefining workplace learning,” noted Ray Debattista, Chief People and Culture Officer. “By investing in our people, we’re creating a dynamic and innovative environment where talent thrives. Our vision is to remain the employer of choice for those who want to grow, succeed, and make an impact.”

A Future of Excellence

Looking ahead, the Bank plans to expand its learning portfolio with initiatives like Career Paths, specialised training in data-driven banking, business transformation, and advanced customer excellence programs. The upcoming third edition of the STAR Programme will continue to nurture emerging talent.

“Learning and Development at BOV is about more than just skills,” said Dr Robert Suban, BOV Director. “It’s about shaping a future-ready workforce that aligns with the Bank’s vision and values. Programs like these ensure our people remain our greatest strength.”

The latest PwC CEO Confidence Tracker which was carried out following the announcement of the 2025 Budget, captures the sentiment of Malta’s top business leaders in the last quarter of year and the reaction to the measures announced in the same Budget. Amongst its outcomes it revealed that the majority of participating CEOs felt that the 2025 Budget measures announced by the Government will not have any significant effect on their business.

Over 50 CEOs leading Malta’s largest business organisations across various industries in Malta participated in this barometer.

A generally consistent business performance and outlook

The results suggest a generally consistent and resilient business outlook and a marginal improvement
in the level of business reported in the previous quarter, when compared to the results of an equivalent barometer carried out earlier this year in April. However, this reflects a lesser level of business when compared to the levels reported in the same barometer during 2022 and 2023.

This business sentiment can be understood in the context of a macro-economic landscape which continues to be exposed to heightened geopolitical pressures, an inflationary environment which remains elevated and the prospect of global trade tensions. The local economic business sentiment as interpreted by the Central Bank of Malta in its ‘Business Conditions Index’ reports that in September 2024, annual growth in business activity was lower than that in August and stood slightly below its historical average estimated since January 2000. The European Commission confidence surveys also show that sentiment in Malta decreased in September, and remained below its long-term average, estimated since November 2002.

CEOs generally unenthusiastic about the 2025 budget measures

The majority (64%) of CEOs who participated in the latest barometer feel that the measures announced by Government in the 2025 Budget will not have any significant effect on their respective business, a result which draws parallels to the latest trends emanating from the CEO confidence tracker which indicate that the majority of CEOs do not envisage any significant pick up in the level of business activity in the next six months.

Moreover, such feedback also suggests that the Budget measures have been interpreted as being generally more geared to the demand-side rather than the supply-side of the economy and addressed to specific strata of the society. This interpretation is consistent with the reaction of the major constituted bodies which represent the private business community in Malta.

The full results of the Q4 CEO Confidence Tracker can be found here.

HSBC Malta Foundation and Hudson Foundation have partnered with Inspire to support two impactful projects: the creation of a new outdoor playground in Bulebel for LinC students with autism and challenging behaviours, and major renovations at Inspire’s Marsaskala facility, which will benefit children and adults with disabilities attending various programs.

The outdoor playground aims to provide an inclusive and engaging space for children of different abilities. Equipped with trampolines, swings, and soft flooring, the playground is designed to encourage physical activity in a safe environment, while offering a controlled sensory experience and a space for social interaction. Outdoor activities have been shown to help children manage energy levels, reduce stress, and improve behaviour management, contributing to their overall well-being.

Meanwhile, the renovation of Inspire’s Marsaskala facility focuses on enhancing infrastructure to better meet the needs of its service users. Plans include modernising the premises, installing energy-efficient ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and implementing embellishment works to create a more welcoming and sustainable environment.

Speaking about the collaboration, HSBC Malta Foundation CEO Geoffrey Fichte said: “This partnership with the Hudson Foundation represents a significant milestone for the HSBC Malta Foundation, marking our first joint initiative with another foundation in many years. By working together to support Inspire, we are reaffirming our commitment to fostering inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. Projects like these reflect our belief in creating environments where everyone can thrive.”

Alfie Borg, Hudson Holdings Ltd. Founder and Chairman, added: “I am thrilled to announce our co-sponsorship with HSBC to create an inclusive playground for children with disabilities. This partnership embodies our shared commitment to fostering environments where every child can play, learn, and grow without barriers. Together, we are building a community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.”

Antonello Gauci, CEO of Inspire said: “”We are incredibly grateful for the generous support. The new outdoor playground in Bulebel and the renovations at our Marsascala facility will make a profound difference in the lives of our service users. This collaboration demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving positive change, and we are proud to be part of this initiative.”

These projects are part of Inspire’s ongoing efforts to create therapeutic and educational facilities that address the unique needs of its service users. With the support of HSBC Malta Foundation and Hudson Foundation, Inspire continues to enhance the quality of its services and interventions, further cementing its position as a leader in supporting persons with disabilities and their families.

For more information about these projects, please contact Inspire via email at communications@inspire.org.mt or by phone at 20928150.

The HSBC Malta Foundation, in collaboration with the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honeybee (KNM), celebrated the winners of the National Insect €2 Commemorative Coin Competition during a special ceremony held at the HSBC Malta Foundation’s premises in Valletta.

The competition, aimed at raising awareness of the endemic Maltese Honeybee (Apis mellifera ruttneri), invited participants to create short videos showcasing the bee’s unique dark-coloured abdomen and its critical role in the ecosystem. The winning videos, determined by public votes on KNM’s YouTube channel, effectively highlighted the importance of this vital pollinator to Malta’s biodiversity.

Each of the seven winners — Jeremy Bonello, Brendan Buttigieg, Sebastian Said, Jake Desira, Jorge Spiteri, Joseph Zammit, and Monika Gerdvilyte — was awarded a limited-edition €2 commemorative coin issued by the Central Bank of Malta. These coins were generously sponsored by the HSBC Malta Foundation to honour the Maltese Honeybee, officially recognised as Malta’s National Insect.

Speaking at the event, Glenn Bugeja, representing the HSBC Malta Foundation, said: “We are proud to support KNM by sponsoring the purchase of these limited-edition commemorative coins honouring the National Insect of Malta. Conservation efforts can take many forms, from hands-on fieldwork to initiatives like this, which celebrate such a vital pollinator deeply intertwined with our country.”

Dylan Farrugia, Co-founder and President of KNM, expressed his gratitude: “I am delighted that a commemorative coin honouring the national insect of Malta is now available. Every effort towards conservation, in any form, contributes to combating the numerous threats facing our honeybee. We are grateful to the HSBC Malta Foundation for recognising and supporting these vital conservation efforts.”

The Maltese Honeybee, an endemic species that has evolved in isolation for centuries, faces significant threats to its genetic purity due to the introduction of foreign bee stock. The competition and the release of the commemorative coin aim to raise awareness about these challenges and inspire efforts to protect the species from extinction.

The HSBC Malta Foundation’s sponsorship of the competition highlights its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. Through such initiatives, HSBC continues to play a vital role in fostering awareness of Malta’s unique biodiversity and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Bank of Valletta has successfully launched its SEPA Incoming Instant Payments service, offering customers a faster, more efficient way to receive funds from anywhere in Europe. This milestone underscores the Bank’s commitment to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions, and its drive to enhance the customer experience with modern, reliable payment solutions.

With SEPA Incoming Instant Payments, funds are transferred and made available in the recipient’s account in under 10 seconds, any time of day or year. Unlike traditional SEPA transfers, which can take up to three days, this service ensures funds are immediately accessible, providing unmatched convenience and reliability for both individuals and businesses.

The launch is part of Bank of Valletta’s broader strategy to modernise its services and meet the evolving needs of its customers. Businesses stand to benefit from improved cash flow and efficiency, while individuals enjoy the peace of mind that comes with real-time updates and instant access to funds.

The achievement is the result of a year-long collaboration across multiple teams within the Bank, demonstrating the bank’s ability to deliver complex, high-impact projects through teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence.

Ernest Agius, Chief Operations Officer at Bank of Valletta, gave his first reaction on the launch, stating, “The introduction of SEPA Instant Payments is a landmark moment for Bank of Valletta. This achievement underscores our commitment to provide innovative and customer-centric solutions, while also reflecting the exceptional teamwork and expertise of our people”. Tonia Naudi, Lead Payments and Multichannel, corroborated his comments by adding, “This project highlights the dedication and collaboration of our teams, who have worked tirelessly to bring it to life. SEPA Instant Payments are a game-changer, and we are proud to offer this service, setting a new standard for payment solutions in Malta”.

As Bank of Valletta continues to enhance its payment services, the launch of SEPA Instant Payments marks an important step in its journey towards delivering faster, more efficient, and customer-focused solutions. This milestone reflects the Bank’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence. For further details about SEPA Instant Payments, one may visit www.bov.com  or contact the Bank’s Customer Service Centre on 356 2131 2020.

HSBC Malta Foundation has partnered with Sacred Heart School on a groundbreaking project, Creative Leftovers, blending education with sustainable development. The initiative challenges students to creatively repurpose leftover food into new meals, linking language skills to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while promoting sustainable consumption.

Through Creative Leftovers, students not only honed their culinary creativity but also embraced the value of community support. Proceeds from the sale of their collective efforts, a beautifully designed recipe book, will be directed towards aiding those in need. The project aligns closely with the school’s mission to foster social awareness and active community participation.

The initiative has already seen remarkable success, with nearly 200 copies of the recipe book sold even before its official launch, reflecting strong enthusiasm from parents and the wider community.

The book’s launch was celebrated during a special event at the end of November at Sacred Heart School. The occasion featured a heartwarming Christmas-themed assembly performed by the students, who proudly showcased their contributions while donning chef hats.

Speaking about the initiative, Geoffrey Fichte, HSBC Malta CEO, said: “Creative Leftovers is a wonderful example of how small actions can inspire big changes. By combining sustainability with education, this project not only teaches children valuable skills but also instils a strong sense of social responsibility. We are proud to support such an innovative initiative that reflects the values we stand for at HSBC Malta Foundation.”

HSBC Malta Foundation remains committed to supporting innovative projects that combine education with sustainability and social impact. Initiatives like Creative Leftovers not only equip young minds with valuable skills but also inspire a sense of responsibility towards our planet and each other.