The Corporate Times

65% of Publicly Listed Company Directors Now Regard AI as a Key Issue Facing Their Boards

Artificial intelligence is rapidly moving up the boardroom agenda, raising an important question for non-executive directors: are boards equipped to oversee the transformation AI is bringing to businesses? This and…

Read More Here

Express Trailers Seeking Scale Beyond Malta As Logistics Pressures Mount

Three years after taking the helm of Express Trailers as CEO, ETIENNE ATTARD reflects on a period of investment, transformation and growing challenges not only for the company, but for Malta’s transport…

Read More Here

“Episodes Of Misconduct Confirm The Need For Urgent Regulation” – Chamber of Advocates President

Newly elected Chamber of Advocates President DR LOUIS DE GABRIELE takes over at a time when Malta’s legal profession is facing questions over regulation, professional standards, public confidence, and the balance between…

Read More Here

Sweden’s Capital-Market Model Offers Lessons For Malta

“Going public does not mean giving up family ownership” Sweden has built one of Europe's most vibrant capital markets. During FinanceMalta’sforthcoming annual conference on the 11 and 12 of November, JIMMY…

Read More Here

Pfizer Betting on AI’s Promise in Drug Discovery

Artificial intelligence has already transformed industries such as finance and education, but one of its most important tests may come in medicine: discovering new drugs. Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer recently signed…

Read More Here

“Rushed Pay Transparency Rules May Undermine Business Competitiveness” – Malta Employers

Malta’s new pay transparency regulations, which came into effect on the 5th of June, aim to strengthen fairness and equality in the workplace, but employers are warning that the rushed…

Read More Here

Individual Tax Programme: Can Simplicity Preserve The Appeal?

When Malta first introduced its special tax residence programmes, they were designed to address specific segments of the international market. Over time, these programmes became an important component of Malta’s…

Read More Here

How Malta’s Financial Services Sector Is Shaping the Talent of Tomorrow

As automation takes over routine processes, the sector’s competitive advantage is shifting towards professionals who can interpret complex information, exercise judgement and advise clients through increasingly uncertain regulatory and commercial…

Read More Here

FinanceMalta Eyes Opportunities In US

FinanceMalta is exploring new opportunities to strengthen Malta’s presence in the United States, following enhanced connectivity between the two countries and growing interest in international investment opportunities. Chairman George Vella…

Read More Here

“Competition is tough, but complacency is fatal” – Norman Aquilina

After 16 years as CEO of the Farsons Group, Norman Aquilina’s journey at the helm of one of Malta’s most established companies has come to an end. As he shares some personal insight…

Read More Here

EP Pushes New Workplace Safety Drive Amid Rising Accident Concerns

The European Parliament has approved a major new initiative aimed at reducing workplace accidents and strengthening worker protection across the European Union, as concerns continue to grow over fatalities and…

Read More Here

EU Tightens Foreign Investment Rules in Critical Industries

The European Union has approved new rules aimed at tightening the screening of foreign investments in strategic sectors, marking a major shift in Europe’s approach towards economic security and protection…

Read More Here

What Talexio’s “Employee Approved Workplace” Certification Reveals About Workplace Culture in Malta

“A company’s workplace culture praised by management, needs to be taken with caution. But when the recognition comes directly from employees, that carries greater weight,” says JONATHAN CAMILLERI, Head of HR at KONNEKTTALEXIO. Earlier this month, KonnektTalexio awarded 14 organisations with the…

Read More Here

EP Approves Stronger Rules For Managing Failing Banks Across Bloc

EU lawmakers have approved new rules aimed at strengthening how failing banks are managed, extending protections to a wider range of institutions and depositors across the bloc. The proposed framework…

Read More Here

Malta’s growing maturity as an EU domicile drives insurance expertise and attracts global players

“Malta’s maturity as an EU domicile is fostering excellence and high-level technical expertise, reinforced by the presence of several reputable multinational brands that have chosen to establish their captive insurance…

Read More Here

EU Plans New Category to Prevent Regulatory ‘Cliff Edge’ for Expanding Companies

EU lawmakers have moved to introduce new rules aimed at boosting the competitiveness of so-called “small mid-cap” (SMC) companies, as part of wider efforts to prevent firms from facing sharp…

Read More Here

Law in the Time of Chaos and Conflict: The Jeffrey Epstein Case

At the current time, writing about mundane points of law can prove difficult and frustrating. What can one legitimately write about? Who really cares about recent legal and corporate questions,…

Read More Here

40% of Businesses Never Reopen After a Disaster

“Economic volatility has become the norm and the disruption that businesses can find themselves facing is no longer a rarity but an inevitable operational hazard,” says By MARK SPITERI, General Manager of Antes Insurance Brokers. Recent…

Read More Here

55% of EU Workers Exposed to Climate Risks

Around 55% of workers across the European Union are exposed to climate-related risks such as extreme heat, air pollution, and UV radiation, according to figures published by the EU Parliament. Work-related accidents…

Read More Here

Vivian’s Long-Term Growth Through Investment in People, Innovation and Partnerships

Vivian continues to widen its portfolio with the announcement of new representation agreements with worldwide R&D pharmaceutical companies. “These latest agreements crown a very successful year for Vivian and consolidates…

Read More Here

EU Crypto Rules Pose Challenges for National Bans on Service Providers

Two local analysts have cautioned that any attempt by EU Member States to block or restrict the passporting of crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) authorised under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA)…

Read More Here

Six Women Shaping Malta’s Financial Services Sector

Marina Grech, Partner, Ganado Advocates As a Partner within Ganado Advocates’ investment services and funds department, Marina Grech has built a career advising clients across Malta’s financial services industry. Her expertise…

Read More Here

Captive insurance market in Malta reaches new highs

“Insurance was never the most glamorous of financial sectors. In fact, it is broadly seen as an industry quietly ticking away in the background, a necessity, but hardly an exciting topic of…

Read More Here

The New Credit Review Office Bill – An Analysis

Today’s column examines the new Credit Review Office Bill, which has received its first reading and has just been published. Bill 156 of 2025 purports to establish a Credit Review Office. Upon a first glance, my reaction was one of perplexity at the unfamiliar…

Read More Here

Reforms, Resilience and the Road Ahead for Malta’s Capital Market

Maltese companies continue to launch corporate bonds that are often oversubscribed within hours. Once seen as opaque and bureaucratic, Malta’s capital market now appears to be thriving. At the forefront…

Read More Here

M&A’s: A Question of Readiness and the Courage to Evolve

By James Vella Clark At first glance, the surge in mergers and acquisitions across Malta over the past two years might suggest a maturing market finally finding its rhythm. But,…

Read More Here

Tech helps, but accountability in Pharma must remain human

Artificial Intelligence is reshaping global healthcare but, for the pharmaceutical sector, this represents not only a technological leap but a call for stronger regulatory alignment, ethical oversight, and human accountability. The draft EU…

Read More Here

AMLA Proportionality To Boost Europe’s Competitiveness

By Christoper Buttigieg The EU’s new Anti-Money Laundering Authority (AMLA) is still taking shape, with governance structures and operational capacity being built from scratch. Yet from its inception, the agency faces…

Read More Here

Building Better Boards: How Good Directors Strengthen Corporate Culture

“Directorship is not simply a title but a profession, and today’s aspiring directors need to commit to lifelong learning, ethical leadership, and accountability,” says Dr ETIENNE BORG CARDONA, chair of IFSP’s…

Read More Here

The Digital Literacy Imperative: “Digital financial capability must be a pillar of national wellbeing”

With bank branches closing, financial services moving online, and digital financial literacy lagging, ordinary citizens risk being left behind. “This is a world where money is increasingly invisible and decisions…

Read More Here

Independent regulator to govern English football

By David Fabri FOOTBALL IN ENGLAND - A NEW STATUTORY REGIME A new Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has been set up under English law - literally a 'game-changer'. Indeed, the game of…

Read More Here

EU Rules Need To Consider Malta’s Geographical Realities- ATTO Chair

As part of the EU’s Green Deal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Emissions Trading System (ETS) will, from January 2026, impose a full 100% charge on emissions. “To Malta’s…

Read More Here

Agility And Forward-Looking Mindset Will Be Key To Malta’s Success – WAIFC Managing Director

“Malta’s reputation as a financial hub is increasingly defined by its agility and forward-looking mindset,” says Dr JOCHEN BIEDERMANN, Managing Director of the World Alliance of International Financial Centres (WAIFC). Representing 27…

Read More Here

Malta’s Tapestry Of Financial Services

Next year, Malta will open the doors to a brand-new museum, giving a permanent home to its priceless collection of Flemish tapestries, donated to the island in 1702. Today, these…

Read More Here

Malta’s VAT Gap Over Twice EU Average

Malta’s tax authority faces a VAT gap of 24.2% in 2023, more than double the EU average of 9.5%, highlighting significant revenue shortfalls and compliance challenges for businesses and the…

Read More Here

Logistics Sector To Face ETS’ 100% EU Charges On Emissions From January 2026

As part of the EU’s Green Deal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Emissions Trading System (ETS) will, from January 2026, impose a full 100% charge on emissions. ATTO, the association…

Read More Here

Deal or No Deal? The Realities of M&A Negotiations in Malta

By Stuart Firman, Senior Associate within Ganado Advocates' corporate finance team Mergers and acquisitions are rarely straightforward. Even in bullish markets, deals hinge on negotiation and the delicate balancing act…

Read More Here

TWO NEW LAWS – Good News, Bad News

By David Fabri 1. Various Laws relating to the Establishment and Jurisdiction of the Commercial Court (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Bill no. 133) Bill no. 133 purports to re-establish a Commercial…

Read More Here

EIF chief: “Europe must build the financial ecosystem its innovators deserve”

Last year, the European Investment Fund (EIF) committed some €14 billion to European SME’s. With borrowing costs still high and private capital scarce, EIF Chief Executive MARJUT FALKSTEDT, who will…

Read More Here

Building Trust Through Tax Transformation

Joseph Caruana, Commissioner for Tax and Revenue The Malta Tax and Customs Administration (MTCA) is closing the final chapter of its Strategic Plan, Delivering Transformation, and preparing for the next…

Read More Here

EU Commission Rejects Calls to Pause AI Act Amid Industry Pressure

The European Commission has firmly dismissed calls to delay the implementation of the landmark Artificial Intelligence Act, despite mounting pressure from industry and political quarters. In July, several leading European…

Read More Here

The Other Africa

By Tonio Galea, Senior Editor, The Dispatch - CDE News When most people hear "Africa" in the news, it’s usually in the context of crisis: migrant boats capsizing in the…

Read More Here

GO Introduces Malta’s First Wi-Fi Calling Service

GO plc has become the first Maltese telecoms operator to launch Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), commonly known as Wi-Fi Calling. The technology, formally known as Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), follows…

Read More Here

The EU Pay Transparency Directive: “An Opportunity for HR to Lead Meaningful Change”

By Joanne Bondin, Director at misco The adoption of the EU Pay Transparency Directive marks a pivotal moment across Europe, including Malta, reinforcing the long-standing Maltese principle of equal pay…

Read More Here

Malta’s New Bridge To Japan: “When We See High Standards, That Is When You Win Our Trust”

Last month, Malta signed an MoU with Japan’s fintech industry, an important milestone is stepping up efforts to secure a coveted double taxation agreement. The Corporate Times met TADAHIKO YAMAGUCHI,…

Read More Here

FinanceMalta Signs MoU On Fintech With Japan As Talks Advance On Double Tax Deal

During this week’s current trade mission in Japan, FinanceMalta signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Fintech Association of Japan, marking a major step in deepening financial ties between…

Read More Here

Cugó Gran Collection Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence in Heritage Luxury

This year, the Cugó Gran Collection is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of redefining heritage luxury through authenticity, elegance, and an uncompromising dedication to excellence. Since opening…

Read More Here

“APS Is No Longer A Secondary Option”

APS Bank chief on shifting ownership, digitalisation and why investor appetite remains strong Two weeks ago, APS Bank launched a rights issue to raise €45 million in fresh equity, accelerating…

Read More Here

EU Looking At Reviving Decades-Old Idea Of Euro-Med Free Trade Area

Several European Union countries are advocating for the elimination of trade barriers with select Mediterranean partners, aiming to foster deeper economic integration through the upcoming Pact for the Mediterranean. This…

Read More Here

Focal Maritime To Consolidate Under One Group

Focal Maritime Services will, this coming November, consolidate all its businesses under a single unified brand, Focal Logistics Group, as it seeks to strengthen its position in the maritime and…

Read More Here

“Time For Serious And Structured Review Of Malta’s Corporate Tax Framework.”

Shadow Minister for Finance HON GRAHAM BENCINI believes that while foreign investment needs to increase, this should not happen at the expense of local businesses. “Maltese businesses deserve fairer treatment,…

Read More Here

CORPORATE COMMENTARY

Malta stands at a critical juncture. Despite years of economic growth, record tax revenues, and a resilient private sector, the country's rising public debt casts a long and increasingly dark…

Read More Here

More Than Vision, Malta’s Maritime Strategy Needs Collective Action

Godwin Xerri, Chairman, Malta Maritime Forum Malta’s maritime sector faces a defining moment. Pressures from EU green regulations, the global push for cleaner fuels, accelerating technological disruption, geo-political tensions, and intensifying…

Read More Here

“Malta’s Direction in Financial Services Should No Longer Be About Rehabilitation But Strategic Repositioning.”

George Vella, Chairman of Finance Malta FinanceMalta’s upcoming 18th Annual Conference, set for November 2025 under the theme “Redefining Finance: A Quality-Driven Future for Malta” arrives at a pivotal moment, a time when…

Read More Here

MDB Financeing Education, Sustainability and Culture

With over 30 years’ experience in the local and international financial services sector, Alison Micallef’s appointment as the Malta Development Bank’s new CEO comes at a time of important growth…

Read More Here

M&A Outlook in a Year of Tariffs, Tech and Shifting Rules

Having attended the 22nd Annual International Mergers & Acquisitions Conference in New York earlier this month, DR SIMON SCHEMBRI reflects on the current global M&A landscape and its implications for Malta ahead of the first Malta M&A Summitby Ganado…

Read More Here

The Duties Of Directors

by David Fabri My last two columns in May and June highlighted important overseas developments and court cases relating to company law. Today we briefly examine recent legislative changes in the field of directors’ duties in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. The discussion is also relevant to…

Read More Here