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Author: Mel Chamber

Balancing Act: Europe’s Strategy for Economic Resilience and Openness

Posted on by Mel Chamber

MICHELE AGIUS – POLICY ADVISOR – MBB

In recent years, Europe has faced unprecedented challenges that have tested the resilience and security of its economy. The global pandemic, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and escalating geopolitical tensions have exposed vulnerabilities across supply chains and critical infrastructures that Europe had not anticipated. These events have underscored the need for a robust strategy to shield the European economy from external shocks and hostile actions. The European Economic Security Strategy (EESS) emerges as a response to these multifaceted risks, aiming to secure the economic foundations of the EU while maintaining its openness and competitiveness on the global stage.

The primary aim of the EESS is to enhance the economic security of the EU by making it more resilient to external shocks and reducing dependencies of critical sectors on foreign partners. The strategy is structured around three main pillars, the first of which is to promote the Single Market, by enhancing the EU’s competitiveness and economic resilience through investments in industrial capabilities and the economy of the future, such as advanced semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, and clean energy. Moreover, the EESS includes measures to encourage the extraction, processing, and recycling of these materials within the EU, thereby reducing dependencies on non-EU countries. This approach is expected to strengthen the EU’s autonomy in key technological areas and support its long-term economic security.

The second pillar is to protect the Single Market, and here the EESS focuses on safeguarding the EU’s economic interests by enhancing defences against various economic security risks. Central to this pillar is the strengthening of trade defences and the rigorous application of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) screening mechanisms, to prevent potentially harmful investors and trade practices that could threaten the national security of Member States. Additionally, it prioritizes enhancing cybersecurity measures across critical infrastructures, employing robust legislative tools such as the ‘NIS 2 Directive’ to bolster digital and physical infrastructures against cyber-attacks and espionage. The pillar also intensifies controls on exports of sensitive technologies and dual-use goods to prevent technology leakage that could inadvertently boost the military capabilities of adversarial states.

Finally, the EESS emphasizes on strengthening international alliances and partnerships by seeking to diversify and secure supply chains through enhanced cooperation with a broad range of countries that share the EU’s economic and security values and concerns. It involves actively pursuing free trade agreements, fostering resilient and sustainable value chains, and ensuring robust economic ties with key strategic partners. Additionally, the EU aims to leverage initiatives like the Global Gateway to invest in secure links worldwide, which support sustainable development and enhance the EU’s influence in shaping the global economic framework.

The discussion around an EESS anchored in the principles of competitiveness and openness is a welcomed development. However, the protection of vital security interests must not serve as cover for disguised protectionism, nor should it endanger the integrity of the Single Market. To ensure the strategy’s success, there needs to be a right balance between economic and national security objectives. This requires a thorough assessment of the different risks identified under the strategy before adopting new EU tools, which must be precise, proportionate, and predictable. These risk assessments should be conducted in close cooperation with business representatives and other key stakeholders.

Collaboration with new non-EU partners is also a very positive development, but each partnership should be carefully assessed to ensure it brings concrete benefits for European business. Benefits such as new international markets and strengthened supply chains, will mitigate the risk of critical goods shortages in essential industries such as automotives and pharmaceuticals. Advanced technology collaborations in industries such as AI, biotechnology, and quantum computing will also reinforce the R&D capabilities of the Single Market in the coming years.

Lastly, renewed partnership and cooperation between the Commission, Member States, and the private sector will be essential. This should come in the form of further intelligence sharing to protect companies from emerging security risks. More coordination and cooperation at EU level is also instrumental in areas such as export controls and FDI screening. One potential option could be the EU setting stricter licensing requirements for exports of quantum computing technologies to countries where there is a risk of these technologies being diverted to develop military capabilities, ensuring that exports do not compromise EU’s strategic interests. Foreign investment in private enterprises operating in critical infrastructure such as energy, telecommunications, and ports, could require thorough assessments to ensure it does not pose a security risk to the strategic autonomy of the EU.

This article was first published on The Malta Independent on the 21st July, 2024.

The BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of id-Dar tal-Providenza gets underway

Posted on by Mel Chamber

H.E. Dr Myriam Spiteri Debono, officially inaugurated the 14th edition of the BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza. Forty players, selected from a total of seventy applicants, started the challenge of fifty-three hours of non-stop volleyball for a noble cause.

Present for the inauguration ceremony were Hon. Julia Farrugia Portelli, Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering, Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research and Innovation, Hon. David Agius, Deputy Speaker and Shadow Minister for Sports, Hon. Graziella Galea, spokeswoman of the Opposition for the Inclusion of the Voluntary sector, Mr Kenneth Farrugia, the CEO of the Bank of Valletta the main sponsor of the marathon, and Siġġiewi Mayor Julian Borg.

In his welcome speech, Fr Martin Micallef while greeting the President of Malta, on her first visit to Id-Dar tal-Providenza, said that the commitment of the players and volunteers sends a beautiful message to Maltese society that it is rewarding to give.  He added that it is wonderful to see young people filled with a great sense of generosity and altruism, who are ready to commit themselves in favour of initiatives in favour of people who need some kind of support, solidarity, or help. He reminded that Dar tal-Providenza, which this year is on the threshold of its 60th anniversary, needs a lot of funds to continue offering the residential services it offers to people with disabilities. “The help that the Maltese and Gozitan people will be giving through this marathon will continue to fill us with the courage to continue this work in the years to come.”

In her brief address at the opening of the marathon, the President of Malta H.E. Myriam Spiteri Debono mentioned that “by opening the Dar tal-Providenza nearly sixty years ago, Mgr Mikiel Azzopardi filled a significant gap, that existed at the time, in society by providing care and support for people with disabilities and their families.” She said that this started to raise public awareness about the importance of providing the necessary help to these people so that they have an opportunity to reach their full potential. Above all, so that they avoid unnecessary suffering. President Myriam Spiteri Debono explained that the costs are substantial and constantly increasing and appealed to the generosity of the people of Malta and Gozo.

Mr. Kenneth Farrugia, BOV’s Chief Executive Officer, stated that the Bank’s relationship with id-Dar tal-Providenza goes back years, with over 10 years of collaboration, and this year, as part of our Bank’s 50th anniversary, BOV is proud to continue building on this relationship. “As the leading bank in Malta, we are constantly committed in nurturing such partnerships that help the most vulnerable, also as it is one of our main strategic objectives to be more present in our community.

“The BOV Volleyball Marathon is a clear representation of what makes us Maltese, being there for one another through sport. This marathon also represents the power of volunteering, something which we at BOV are also encouraging with the introduction of the Volunteering Leave for all our employees.”

Mr. Farrugia continued that “Id-Dar tal-Providenza provides a vital service to our community and as BOV we want to continue expanding our work with the community to help all our citizens achieve a better quality of life. We truly hope that this relationship can grow further in the coming years and decades to come, and BOV will keep enhancing its CSR programme through such initiatives for the benefit of the local community.”

Mr. Ernest Agius, the Bank’s Chief Operations Officer, commented that “we are incredibly proud to support the BOV Dar tal-Providenza Volleyball Marathon, a remarkable event we have been backing for over a decade. Supporting this Marathon showcases our commitment to the community in which we operate. Continuously we are growing our presence so that we are truly a bank which is made by the people and for the people. This marathon is not just a testament to our community engagement but also demonstrates our ethos, which emphasizes playing an active role in the communities we serve. The work that Fr. Martin and his team do is invaluable, and we are proud to support such organisations. It is heartening to see our people actively participating as players and volunteers, embodying the spirit of solidarity and service that infuse our CSR efforts and embody our Bank’s culture.”

In the evening during the three days of the marathon there will be live music on the main stage. On Friday evening from 9:00 pm to midnight, the band Zone 5 will be invited, on Saturday the band Kantera, while on Sunday, the Spiteri Lucas Band.

The marathon will be broadcast on the local TV channels. The public can help by calling the numbers below, using BOV Mobile Banking or PayPal and Revolut or donating online to Dar’s bank accounts. For more information about this activity you can visit the site: www.sabihlitaghti.org or call one of the numbers below:

€10         5160 2011
€15         5170 2012
€25         5180 2013
€50         5190 2070
€100       5130 2044

Pledge Line: 2146 3686
BOV Mobile  7932 4834

HSBC Malta welcomes summer interns with exciting future skills programme

Posted on by Mel Chamber

HSBC Malta recently welcomed this year’s summer interns, providing them with a memorable start to their internship experience. Qualifying students from the JA Malta Foundation, MCAST’s Institute of Business Management and Commerce, and the University of Malta were greeted with a warm welcome that included a delightful breakfast. The interns met members of our leadership team as we shared our values through an induction meeting. They also were taken for a comprehensive tour of the new HSBC Malta HUB offices in Qormi.

One of the day’s highlights saw Matthew Mamo, Deputy Head of Human Resources at HSBC Malta, introduce the interns to the bank’s inaugural Future Skills Intern Programme. Over the summer, the programme will provide the interns with access to mentors, online courses, and numerous opportunities to enhance their skills in alignment with their career aspirations.

Matthew Mamo expressed his enthusiasm for the programme, stating, “At HSBC Malta, we are committed to investing in the future of our young talent. Our Future Skills Intern Programme is designed to provide interns with invaluable experiences and resources that will help them develop the skills necessary for their future careers. We are excited to see the growth and progress of our interns over the summer.”

The success of the welcome day was made possible by the collective efforts of HSBC Malta’s dedicated colleagues. Special thanks were given to Beverley Spiteri for capturing the memorable moments from the day.

HSBC Malta remains committed to fostering the development of future professionals through innovative programmes and supportive initiatives.

PwC Malta enhances its leadership team with four new director appointments

Posted on by Mel Chamber

PwC Malta has welcomed four new directors into its leadership team. Effective as from 1 July 2024, Marie Claire Shead and David Gafa have been appointed Directors within the Assurance line of service, Stefan Diacono has been appointed Director within the firm’s Finance and Corporate Managed Services line of service and Etienne Falzon has been appointed as a Director within PwC Digital Services Malta Limited.

“These appointments reflect the continuing diversification of our business, and the multidisciplinary nature of our offerings. This announcement also reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of development and recognising talent within our firm,’’ said David Valenzia, Territory Senior Partner at PwC Malta. Each of these individuals bring a wealth of Experience and expertise, and their dedication has been instrumental in the operations of the firm. David Valenzia continued by expressing his confidence in each individual and his belief that they will all play an important role in shaping the future of PwC Malta.

Marie Claire joined PwC as an Audit Associate in 2005 after successfully completing her Accountancy degree at the University of Malta. She spent 12 years working on various external audit engagements that vary in size and nature, both locally and abroad at PwC New York and PwC Milan. In 2018 Marie Claire took up the role of managing the day to day operations of the Assurance practice. Her focus is that of providing oversight and managing the operations within the Assurance line of service. Marie Claire is also regularly involved in delivering internal training on external audit standards and processes.

David joined the firm in 2008 after earning a Bachelor of Accountancy (Honours) degree from the University of Malta. As part of the firm’s Assurance practice, he manages audits for listed entities, major private groups and public corporations in various sectors, including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy, real estate and retail. He has also worked in the Assurance departments of PwC in Sydney, Chicago, Boston and San Francisco, supporting clients in financial services, manufacturing, and technology.

Stefan graduated with a BA (Hons) in Management from the University of Malta in 1999 and received a diploma in taxation from the Malta Institute of Taxation in 2015. He began his career at PwC Malta in 1999, later joining a start-up corporate service provider to help establish its Malta office, before he returned to PwC Malta, pushing his career to the next level. Stefan has extensive experience in company accounting, corporate compliance, administrative matters and corporate restructuring. He heads the liquidation team, manages a portfolio of medium-sized and multinational companies and delivers training courses both internally and to clients.

Etienne graduated with a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Henley Business School in 2010 and joined PwC Malta in 2022 after working for more than 20 years in business applications implementation. Etienne has extensive experience in leading global teams and driving complex and challenging engagements, both with local and international clients, and is currently leading the Firm’s Microsoft Business Applications practice.

These appointments serve as further confirmation of PwC Malta’s commitment to invest in differentiating capabilities that motivate the firm and its staff to continuously deliver on its purpose; to be a community of solvers coming together in unexpected ways with the scope of supporting organisations, build trust and deliver sustained outcomes. These appointments demonstrate the sustainability plan of the firm, and reflect its mission to ensure a steady growth path for members of staff on all levels.

The Malta Chamber Congratulates Dr Roberta Metsola on Winning EP President Election

Posted on by Mel Chamber

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry congratulates Dr. Roberta Metsola on being re-elected as President of the European Parliament. We wish her every success in this esteemed role.

This prestigious appointment is poised to elevate Malta’s profile at both the EU and international levels.

The Malta Chamber looks forward to collaborating in every possible way with President Metsola and the rest of the Maltese Members of the European Parliament, and trust that all our MEPs will set aside partisan bickering and act in the best interests of Malta going forward.

The Health and Safety at Work Act – A Possible Step Forward

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Proper proactive enforcement and timely drafting of corresponding legal notices should be the next step

The Malta Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry has repeatedly highlighted the urgent attention that needs to be given to health and safety to effectively prevent accidents and deaths. Laws and regulations need to reflect the nature of the work and the corresponding risk. Laws and regulations must also address abuse, and enforcement must be carried out in a proactive and timely manner.

Apart from submitting its views during the public consultation process and at MCESD last year, The Malta Chamber participated and contributed during the Second Reading Stage at the “Consideration of Bills Committee” in Parliament last week.

Amongst a number of other points, The Malta Chamber called for clarity on the applicability and role of the newly introduced Health & Safety Reporting Officer (HSRO). The Malta Chamber insisted that:

(a) The HSRO role should not be a blanket requirement based solely on the nature of the business and its size as originally proposed, but should be dependent on the risk inherent in the nature of the work and how it is being executed. The original Bill was ushered with the caveat that the HSRO will not apply to all businesses. It hinted at large business and certain industries, without defining large in the context of the Bill, and without specifying which industries. The victims of tragic occupational accidents that we have seen in recent years were, in most cases, working with small companies or in high risk unregulated environments. Risk management requires mitigating measures corresponding to the risks inherent to the operations and the way they are carried out, and this will differ from one company to another depending on competence more than size.

(b) The requirement of an HSRO should be imposed to address repeated abuses and to curb irresponsible practices by high-risk operators who systematically try to get away with it. The Bill as originally drafted would have shifted the burden of policing on the HSRO across the board, which would have been unfair on operators who fully comply with existing health and safety obligations and adopt a proactive approach to risk management. Blanket impositions of the requirement of an HSRO would dramatically increasing personnel costs, especially because the HSRO role will be tough to fill. Proactive and properly co-ordinated enforcement needs to be carried out by the Authority, irrespective of the introduction of the HSRO role.

(c) Clarity is required on how the new role of the HSRO would fit with that of the Health and Safety officer/practitioner which already exists in companies that are in line with current occupational health and safety. Accidents keep happening, among other reasons, because some businesses do not adhere to the existing obligations. The reality is that the majority of the bigger companies are very likely to have an inhouse H&S officer or otherwise have a service agreement with a H&S practitioner/firm. Some smaller companies subcontract external service providers for the number of hours required, depending on nature/risk, for their risk assessments, inspections and follow-ups. It still needs to be seen how the two roles will interact in those companies where the HSRO will be required.

The Malta Chamber positively notes that the HSRO requirement has been amended to reflect “the nature of the work” rather than the nature of the business or its size. Subsequent subsidiary legislation will need to determine where an HSRO will be required subject to the ”nature of the work”. The Authority will also have the right to “order that an HSRO is appointed in relation to a particular employer for such time as the Authority may deem necessary” where there are serious and consistent breaches of the law.

The next steps require government to embark on proactive enforcement including the sharing of pertinent information between government departments, entities, agencies and authorities through proper digitalisation to facilitate enforcement. Government must also ensure that the corresponding legal notices to this enabling law are enacted without unnecessary procrastination.

The Malta Chamber reiterates its position in favour of health and safety regulations and standards that prevent accidents and death. In order to achieve meaningful legislation there must be proper engagement with representatives of both employers and employees, ideally around the same table. The Malta Chamber reaffirms its commitment to participate and engage at all consultation stages, and urges Government to make better use of the MCESD as this is a matter of relevance to both employers and employees, as well as to civil society.

AWE 2024

Posted on by Mel Chamber

The Malta Chamber is aiming to identify up to 60 prospective women entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners, 60% of which will aim to be business owners and 40% of which are non-business owners aspiring to become entrepreneurs, and they will receive the AWE 2024 training. This opportunity is available for members and non-members of The Malta Chamber.

Participants targeted will be women aged around 25 or over, having a post-secondary level of education and higher, aspiring to start a business or who have recently started a business who will be required to commit to the whole programme and have the opportunity to pitch at the end of the training with the possibility of winning seed money to fund their start-up or business opportunity.

Potential participants should REGISTER HERE by 16 September 2024.

For any queries or further information please send an email to awe@maltachamber.org.mt

RULES OF PARTICIPATION

  • If you enrol you are committing to completing Dream Builder by the stipulated deadlines and you shall attend at least 80% of all Physical sessions.
  • To be excused a letter is to be signed and sent to awe@maltachamber.org.mt
  • In case of sickness, a medical certificate is required.
  • People that hold a US Citizenship or Dual US Citizenship cannot apply!
ACTIVITYDATE & TIMEVENUE
Information Session8 October 2024 at 10:00 – 11:00Online
AWE 2024 Launch11 October 2024 at 09:00The Malta Chamber, Valletta
DreamBuilder Course (Compulsory) Courses 1-13 must be completed by 10 January 2025Online
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
Malta’s Economic Context
Silvan Mifsud, Council Member, The Malta Chamber		24 October 2024, 09:30 – 11:30The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
Assistance available in Malta for Start-Ups & Female Entrepreneurs
Alison Mizzi, Director, EMCS		7 November 2024, 09:30 – 11:30The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
Internationalisation services for your business
TradeMalta Representative		14 November 2024, 09:30 – 11:30The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
Aspects of Malta’s Commercial Law for Entrepreneurs
Christina Scicluna (Senior Associate) & Saman Bugeja (Associate), Ganado Advocates		3 December 2024, 09:30 – 11:30The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
PART 1 – Media, Communications & Marketing
Rachel Bondi Attard, Head of Media & Communication Strategy, The Malta Chamber

PART 2 – GDPR
Lee Ann Agius (Lawyer) and Claire Balzan (Lawyer), PwC Malta		PART 1 – 19 December 2024, 09:30 – 10:30

PART 2 – 19 December 2024, 10:30 – 11:30		The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Training Session & Networking (COMPULSORY)
Intercultural Awareness & Leading a Business as a Woman
Ediana Guillamier, People Consulting and Learning Lead, EY Malta		9 January 2025, 09:30 – 11:30The Malta Chamber, Valletta
Tutorials (OPTIONAL)
Participants will have the opportunity to attend the following tutorials.
Module 1: Business Concept
Module 2: Business Strategy
Module 3: Media, Communications & Marketing
Module 4: Managing & Funding your Dream
Module 5: Legal Aspects
Module 6: How to pitch your business idea

Bonus Tutorial – Leading as a Woman Communication & Intercultural Awareness		Module 1 – 3/12/24 @ 17:30 -18:30

Module 2 – 8/1/25 @ 16:00 -17:00

Module 3 – 14/1/25 @ 13:30-14:30

Module 4 – 23/1/25 @ 16:30-17:30

Module 5 – 31/1/25 @ 13:30- 14:30

Module 6 – 29/1/25 @ 14:00 -15:00

Bonus – 15/1/25 @ 16:00-17:00		Online
Pitching Competition (OPTIONAL)
A pitching session will be held at the end of the course to those having completed Dream Builder in time and having attended at least 80% of the Training Sessions at The Malta Chamber.
Those pitching their business idea/product/service may win a start-up prize of:
$7,000 as a 1st Prize
$3,000 as a 2nd Prize		27/2/25 & 28/2/25The Malta Chamber, Valletta
AWE 2024 Graduation18/3/25The Malta Chamber, Valletta

BOV Rebbiegħa initiative announces projects to drive community development

Posted on by Mel Chamber

Bank of Valletta is proud to announce the five projects that will be spearheading community development across Malta and Gozo over the coming year as part of the BOV Rebbiegħa CSR Initiative. Aimed at fostering sustainable growth and community engagement, the BOV Rebbiegħa Initiative identified five groundbreaking projects that will be receiving funding and support from Bank of Valletta. These were chosen from among 21 projects submitted by 17 different NGOs in response to the Bank’s open call made last February. The projects were chosen for their innovative approach and their potential to significantly enhance the quality of life of our islands and encompass a variety of areas including environment, sustainability, education, cultural heritage, and social inclusion.

This announcement coincides with the Bank’s 50th anniversary celebrations, marking half a century of dedicated service and activism in local communities. The selected projects are:

  • Conservation and Research of Loggerhead Turtles – Led by Nature Trust-FEE Malta, this project involves building an outdoor turtle tank and implementing satellite tracking to conserve and study loggerhead turtles.
  • VR Educational Experience – Created by Żibel in collaboration with the Archelogy Department at the University of Malta, this initiative aims to showcase the beauty of the underwater world while highlighting the issue of underwater pollution through a virtual reality experience.
  • Interactive Environmental Book – The Write Deal Association Malta will write and publish an educational interactive book about the BOV 4 Environmental Pillars, providing a virtual platform for learning and engagement.  
  • Ġnien Community Project – Spearheaded by Għawdix, this project aims to interweave the wisdom of traditional Gozitan farmers with the innovative practices and ambitions of younger community members.
  • Maltese Honey Bee Research – In partnership with the Biology Department at the University of Malta, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee, will build ecological enclaves to support and promote biodiversity conservation through the study of the Maltese honey bee.

Commenting during the announcement, Charles Azzopardi, Head CSR and Events at Bank of Valletta explained, “It gives us great satisfaction to announce the chosen projects under this initiative, as they each represent a crucial step in our continuous mission to enrich the lives of local communities in Malta and Gozo. The selection process was incredibly rigorous and competitive, reflecting the high level of innovation and commitment of local NGOs. We are extremely eager so see these projects come to fruition in collaboration with the Bank over the months ahead”.

Mr Ernest Agius, the Bank’s Chief Operations Officer, spoke about the BOV Rebbiegħa CSR initiative. “Launched on our 50th anniversary, this initiative underscores the Bank’s long-standing commitment to continue playing an active role in society and making a positive impact on our communities. It is aimed at protecting Malta’s environment while fostering a greater understanding and care for the natural environment around us. The projects chosen under this initiative not only address the immediate needs of local communities, but also lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and development. We look forward to witnessing first-hand the positive impact that these initiatives will bring.”

HSBC Malta hosts memorable summer party at Verdala Palace

Posted on by Mel Chamber

HSBC Malta celebrated 25 years of achievements at this year’s annual staff party held at the Verdala Palace on the 28th of June. The highly anticipated event, organised by the Sports and Social Committee, brought together employees for an evening of music, entertainment, and camaraderie.

The historic Verdala Palace, nestled in the picturesque Buskett, provided a stunning backdrop for the evening’s festivities. The employees were treated to an enchanting night filled with delightful performances and a vibrant atmosphere.

Headlining the entertainment was Musea Orchestra, a renowned Maltese pop orchestra known for their energetic concerts and unique orchestral flair. Their performance captivated the audience and set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Special guest Aidan added an extra layer of excitement with a performance that left everyone in high spirits.

The evening was a testament to the strong community and team spirit within the organisation. The Sports and Social Committee went above and beyond in organising an event that not only celebrated the bank’s achievements but also fostered a deep sense of unity and pride among all attendees.

As the night drew to a close, those present left with many a cherished memory and a renewed energy to clench more successes in the future.

“It was a delightful evening where, as one team we celebrated 25 years of achievements in Malta and Gozo. Plus, the Verdala Palace was magical, the performances outstanding; and this was a wonderful way to come together and celebrate our collective successes. This event truly highlighted the strong bond we share as a team,” said Geoffrey Fichte, CEO at HSBC Malta.