The Sunday Times of Malta - Classified
BOV’S market outlook for 2026
The investment landscape for equities in 2026 is expected to be characterised by a fundamental transition from narrow market leadership to a broader, more inclusive rally. For several years, global returns have been dominated by a handful of massive...
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AI agents arrived in 2025 – here’s what happened and the challenges ahead
In artificial intelligence, 2025 marked a decisive shift. Systems once confined to research labs and prototypes began to appear as everyday tools. At the center of this transition was the rise of AI agents – AI systems that can use other software tools...
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How Europe’s new carbon tax on imported goods will change global trade
For people living in the EU, the price of their next car, home renovation and even local produce may soon reflect a climate policy that many have never even heard of. This new regulation, which comes fully into force on New Year’s Day, does not just...
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Reimagining asset management
You might be wondering whether I used artificial intelligence (AI) to write this article. The truth is I have used it as a creative aid to add value to my narrative. This goes to show that even analysts such as myself can benefit from the use of...
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De Mondion rated best overall restaurant in Malta − survey
De Mondion restaurant was awarded ‘Top Overall Restaurant’ for 2026 at The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants Awards Ceremony held at the Grand Hotel Excelsior, Floriana, on December 8. The awards celebrated the outstanding achievement of...
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A decade of awareness and action
Ten years is a significant period in any organisation’s journey − and for the Responsible Gaming Foundation (RGF), the 2024 Annual Report signifies a decade of growth, reflection and renewed purpose. Established in 2014, the RGF was created out of a...
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OHSA launches national study on workforce health
The Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) is continuing to expand its vision towards a more holistic approach to workplace health, where workers’ mental and emotional well-being are given the same importance as physical health. During a...
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What happens when you really look in the mirror
When I sat down to speak with Ivan Bartolo, he had just returned from delivering training overseas – something he has spent much of his life doing. His career has taken him from Malta to Canada, Norway, the US and India, working with teams of all ages...
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Changing the way we pay
In line with the EU Instant Payment Regulation, on October 9, all European retail and commercial banks introduced SEPA instant payments, an innovative service allowing individuals, businesses and corporations to send and receive money instantly across...
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The quiet strain of self-employment
When Olivia Bilocca describes self-employment, she doesn’t start with freedom or flexibility, but with fatigue. “You are the founder, the sales team, the CEO – everyone,” she says. “Doing everything by yourself has a psychological and a financial cost...
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Investing in maritime tradition for a sustainable future in ship repair
Few nations in Europe are as closely tied to the sea as Malta. Our maritime legacy stretches back centuries and remains at the core of our identity and economy. Strategically located on the main shipping route across the Mediterranean, Malta assumes a...
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Igniting change to elevate people
On October 8, the Malta Foundation for Human Resource Development (FHRD) hosted its Annual HR Conference at the Hilton Conference Centre, welcoming over 600 HR professionals for a full day of insights, discussions and networking. This year’s theme,...
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Digital Fairness Act: Implications for the future of the igaming industry
The European Commission is preparing a major reform of consumer protection rules in the digital environment. Its recent Digital Fairness Fitness Check concluded that existing EU law is not sufficiently effective when it comes to addressing manipulative...
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Boom or bubble: how long can the AI investment craze last?
The staggering investments in artificial intelligence keep coming. Late last month, AI chip giant Nvidia announced it would invest $100 billion to help Openai, the frontrunner in generative AI, build data centres. How are these enormous sums possible...
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Unlocking potential: the surge in learning and development
One shift is becoming impossible to ignore: employees are no longer content to stand still. They want to learn, to evolve, to see themselves grow. EY Malta’s latest ‘Work Reimagined Survey’ captures this change in motion, and it points to a workforce...
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Don’t wait for change – lead it
The summer months are always a litmus test for our tourism sector. This year, the numbers speak for themselves. A record 1.1 million visitors arrived in Malta between April and June; tourist spending exceeded €1 billion for the first time in a single...
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Enhancing built and shared infrastructure in Malta
During the EY Future Realised conference last year, we explored the potential of shared infrastructure ideas in Malta and highlighted the necessity for innovative approaches to urban planning and resource management. Well-functioning infrastructure is...
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Boredom: a doormat to problem gambling
When we think of problem gambling, we often associate it with the appeal of high stakes, the excitement that comes from winning or the desperation of chasing losses. But an increasingly recognised trigger in the cycle of problem gambling is something...
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Copyright litigation in the age of AI: why tech giants are facing a legal reckoning
The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence has not only transformed the digital economy − it has also triggered a wave of high-stakes copyright litigation. At the heart of the storm is a simple question with far-reaching implications: can...
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Financing our maritime industry
The feature, ‘Bond review: maritime sector’ penned by Edward Rizzo (Times of Malta, July 31), makes interesting reading and raises a number of considerations, which, we, as the Malta Maritime Forum, discuss from time to time. The analysis made by...
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The emerging legal order of environmental accountability
Environmental degradation is no longer hypothetical. It is a measurable and escalating crisis reshaping legal systems. In July 2025, sea surface temperatures in the western Mediterranean soared to 31°C, up to 8°C above normal, marking the region’s most...
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The cautious investor’s guide to beating inflation
For generations, the cornerstone of financial wisdom passed down in many families has been simple and powerful: work hard, save diligently and keep your money safe. For most of us, “safe” means a trusted savings account, perhaps some government bonds...
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The fast-changing environment and its impact on communities
Climate change is no longer a distant occurrence. We are currently experiencing its negative effects, which are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Understandably, many around the world might be sceptical. However, when looking at what’s...
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AI is reshaping the future of banking in Malta and Europe
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the global banking landscape rapidly, with Malta’s financial services industry forming part of this evolution. From front-line customer interactions to behind-the-scenes operations, financial services...
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Beyond the beach: Malta’s strategic masterclass in tourism governance
First, we need to define what is tourism. Tourism is the act and process of spending time away from home in pursuit of recreation, relaxation and pleasure, while making use of the commercial provision of services. There is no doubt that tourism is...
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FHRD launches annual HR conference and expo
The Malta Foundation for Human Resource Development (FHRD) has launched its annual conference and expo. Considered the most significant and influential annual HR conference on the island for all things related to human resources, training and business...
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Beyond the brochure: rethinking tourism for a sustainable Malta
In the last 20 years, sustainability has risked becoming a cliché in tourism discourse. It appears in policy documents, most recently Envision 2025, promotional campaigns and stakeholder meetings. Yet, for all its ubiquity, the term has often been...
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A supply-side blueprint for affordable homes in Malta
Malta’s escalating property prices necessitate a paradigm shift towards supplyside solutions for sustainable housing affordability. While current price alleviation measures offer crucial immediate support, they address symptoms rather than the root...
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How 10 years of FPEI helped shape Malta’s entrepreneurial future
Ten years ago, the word ‘entrepreneur’ in Malta was often interchangeable with ‘selfemployed’, and access to funding for early-stage ideas was limited. Today, Malta boasts a growing ecosystem of founders, freelancers and small businesses who are not...
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Why Japan’s economic revival is catching investors’ eyes
Q. Japan’s economy has long been criticised for stagnation and deflation. What makes this moment different? A. Japan has historically struggled with deflation, a problem far harder for central banks to tackle than inflation. For nearly 30 years,...
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Building a future for us or a future without us?
That the Maltese are resilient is something we’ve heard many times. As a small island nation with few natural resources on which to sustain a population, it is unsurprising that Malta would have a long history of sustainability efforts targeting...
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Multi-asset funds: a versatile, strategic approach to investing
Investing wisely can be a challenge given the myriad of options available. Multi-asset funds stand out as a versatile option for investors seeking to balance risk and return. These funds combine a variety of investment types within a single portfolio,...
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Evaluating geopolitical threats and their effects on investment funds
Geopolitical risk has returned as a key factor influencing investment risk and return, crucially becoming one of the most focal concerns for investors. It is imperative that such concerns are navigated through risk mitigants, investment strategies and...
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Screens, drones, massages: the future of cars on show
At the huge Auto Shanghai industry show last week, the chatter was less about powerful engines and more about cutting-edge technology and passenger comfort. Hundreds of carmakers and equipment supplies have filled the exhibition space, showcasing...
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Europe must wake up and face security and economic challenges
You’ve spoken about Europe’s real economy decoupling from its stock market. What’s driving this divergence – and how sustainable is it? That’s the big question right now. We’re seeing rising debt levels across the eurozone. France, for instance, has...
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How Europe is trying to break its US tech addiction
With President Donald Trump more unpredictable than ever and transatlantic ties reaching new lows, calls are growing louder for Europe to declare independence from US tech. From Microsoft to Meta, Apple to Uber, cloud computing to AI, much of the...
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Malta’s trailblazing role with the ITU in empowering the next generation
As the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) celebrates its 160th anniversary, it continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the global telecommunications landscape. This was exemplified at the ITU Global Youth Summit, held in Varadero, Cuba,...
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‘Reimagine our digital future’
Building on the success of previous editions, EY Engage 2025, Malta’s premier technology leaders’ forum, will take place on June 20 at the Intercontinental Arena, St Julian’s. The full-day conference will bring together EY thought leaders, global...
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Mind games: protecting neurodiverse individuals from gambling harm
Gambling is a widely popular leisure activity responsibly enjoyed by millions worldwide, but for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, what initially may be harmless fun frequently becomes an unremitting problem. Knowledge about the complex...
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The tech duel: China’s AI ascent and the US race to hold the lead
How do you assess the current economic strength of the US compared to China? The global narrative has largely painted China as struggling, while the US continues to thrive. However, looking at the data, the reality is more nuanced. Historically,...
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From Malta to China: building bridges in global luxury travel
The luxury travel industry is changing, and with it, so are the expectations of today’s most discerning travellers. Where once luxury travel simply meant opulence, now these travellers seek unique, meaningful and personalised experiences. Their wish...
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National Maritime Transport Strategy set to be a beacon for industry players
On World Maritime Day last September, during an event organised by the Malta Maritime Forum (MMF), Transport Minister Chris Bonett announced that the government was launching the formulation of a ‘National Maritime Transport Strategy’ in collaboration...
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‘For expats, banking remains one of biggest hurdles’
Moving to a new country comes with challenges, and for expats in Malta, banking remains one of the biggest hurdles. “With traditional banks offering limited accessibility and high fees, we have found in Moneybase a solution that has fulfilled this...
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US exceptionalism: the ultimate Alpha male?
The year 2024 conceptualised the term ‘US exceptionalism’ in financial markets. Global equities provided a return of 24.81% during 2024, which was mainly attributed towards US equities that provided an outstanding return of 25% as opposed to European...
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Building a new gender equality
Although she never set out to be a role model for women in Malta’s construction and architecture industries, Alison Spiteri Sacco has become exactly that, proving that success is defined by leadership, innovation and skill – not gender. Alison’s...
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Workplace pension plans in Malta: what you need to know
In today’s competitive job market, more employers are helping their employees save for retirement by offering workplace pension schemes. Following Budget 2025, this may soon become a requirement for many. This article explains what these pensions are,...
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Perry Magazine celebrates 25 years
Perry Magazine, published by Perry Real Estate Agents and Times of Malta, is this year celebrating its 25th year of publication, making it Malta’s longest surviving and leading printed real estate and culture magazine. First produced and circulated in...
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Youth and gambling: education is the best bet
In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world, nearly everything is available at the click of a button. Modern society thrives on instant gratification, with smartphones acting as gateways to a dizzying array of services: news, banking, shopping and...
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Bridging education, field experience with specialised accreditation
In an increasingly competitive corporate landscape, businesses are sure that a way of keeping an edge over their competition, in whichever field they operate, is by having the best trained, most motivated human resources possible. The advantages of...
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AI comes down from the cloud as chips get smarter
Artificial intelligence is moving from data centres to “the edge” as computer makers build the technology into laptops, robots, cars and more devices closer to home. The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) gadget extravaganza, which closed on Friday, was...
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One does not only need a brilliant idea but also study business and build connections
Entrepreneurs drive innovation, create jobs and contribute to economic growth. But entrepreneurship is not just about having a brilliant idea. It requires skills that often must be learnt. Structured entrepreneurship education is designed to give...
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Six ways to make the internet safer for women
Women are less likely to protect themselves online because current safety advice does not take full account of their needs – despite women being more at risk from cyber abuse and threats than men. This abuse of women is a growing problem, with one in...
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Self-exclusion in Malta
In recent years, the Maltese gambling industry has taken decisive steps to ensure that player protection remains a priority. One of the most significant tools in this endeavour is self-exclusion, a system designed to empower individuals to take control...
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Top CEOS navigate global turbulence by betting big on AI, talent − KPMG survey
Top CEOS are backing their businesses to prosper in the face of declining confidence in the global economy, a KPMG survey of more than 1,300 corporate leaders from across the world found. The research revealed that 92% of CEOS plan to boost employee...
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PROPERTY FOR SALE
BUĠIBBA. Commercial seafront property, high passing trade, 500sqm over two floors. €1,700,000. Phone 9945 8692. COSPICUA (Bormla). Charming townhouse, UCA. Two bedrooms, roof terrace. €350,000, freehold. Phone 9989 2008. FLORIANA. Duplex maisonette...
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Supporting local SMES in reaching their growth and green potential
Q. Can you tell us in what ways BOV intends to support local SMES with this new funding agreement signed with the EIF? A. The €30 million Eu-funded guarantee under the Investeu programme has allowed the bank to leverage a €42 million portfolio of...
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Towards a safer gambling ecosystem
The event has grown exponentially over the years, reflecting an industry-wide acknowledgement of the importance of safer gambling measures. The main objectives of this event were to raise awareness, provide customers with the information they need to...
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As Malta continues to position itself as a key player in the international financial services industry, at Finco Trust Services, shares some insights on the country’s growing industry, its competitive advantages and the challenges that lie ahead.
Malta’s financial services industry has grown significantly in recent years, attracting foreign financial services operators across various sectors such as asset management, insurance, banking and, more recently, electronic money institutions...
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Interview with author of head of talent development at Betsson and winner of ‘The Outstanding Mentor’ award at this year’s Women in Gaming Awards in London
Companies worldwide invest a lot of time, money and energy in leadership development. And yet, most fail to achieve the desired outcomes. Where do they fail? In her new book, Leaders Made From Within, Maria Loumpourdi – who has a doctorate in...
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Why everyone’s talking about short-letting
With Malta projected to welcome over two million tourists in 2025, the demand for short-let accommodation is soaring. According to the National Statistics Office (NSO), a significant portion of visitors now favour private rentals over hotels because...
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How deepfakes and generative AI are changing phishing in banking
Imagine browsing your emails and finding one that seems to be from your bank, urgently asking you for your account details. This is a classic phishing attempt ‒ a method where cybercriminals deceive individuals into providing sensitive information,...
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Marc El-lazidi,
Last year you said the US could be the last domino to fall in a global downturn. Where do we stand today? The US economy has shown remarkable resilience over the past year. In my November 2022 interview, I pointed out that the US remained relatively...
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Enforcing metaverse-related blockchain arbitral awards
The rapid advancement of technology, particularly the internet, has profoundly reshaped our world over the past three decades. The concept of the metaverse is now attracting significant attention and investment, positioning itself as a potential “next...
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Defending the CIAA: Understanding ICT operational and security threats
In the heart of London, a routine hospital visit spirals into chaos. Your father, scheduled for a long-awaited hernia operation at Guy’s and St Thomas’, now faces an indefinite delay. The hospital has just informed a crowd of anxious patients that all...
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Lady Luck? The unique risks women face in gambling
In recent years, the gambling industry has witnessed a shift that was, until recently, an underreported and often overlooked phenomenon: the increasing participation of women in gambling. Historically, gambling has been perceived as a male-dominated...
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