CrediaBank to acquire HSBC Malta at steep discount CrediaBank has announced it will acquire HSBC Malta for €200 million, a deal representing a discount of nearly 55% on the bank’s book value. The acquisition covers HSBC’s 70% stake, with the remainder to be offered to minority shareholders at €1.44 per share, potentially costing CrediaBank an additional €155 million. In a presentation to investors, CrediaBank said the transaction will generate substantial “badwill” of about €228 million, boosting profit after tax. The deal, still subject to regulatory approval, is expected to close by the end of next year, with a full takeover projected by mid-2026. Once completed, CrediaBank will become Malta’s second largest bank, commanding roughly 24% of the local market. (Times of Malta)
PN leader’s partner apologises for driving without licence and insurance Sarah Bajada, partner of newly-elected Nationalist Party leader Alex Borg, has apologised after being stopped for driving without a valid licence or insurance. Writing on Facebook, Bajada explained that until last year her employer handled her renewals, but after leaving the company in 2024 the responsibility shifted to her. She admitted her licence and insurance expired in July 2025 and that the oversight was due to being “fully engaged” in Borg’s PN leadership campaign. She said she was stopped at a Transport Malta roadblock while picking up her son and only then realised both documents had lapsed. Bajada apologised unreservedly, saying she accepted full responsibility and would follow the necessary procedures to settle the matter. (The Malta Independent)
Prime Minister pledges budget focused on long-term initiatives Prime Minister Robert Abela said Malta’s strong economic and financial performance will allow government to present a budget centred on long-term priorities. Speaking at a meeting with the Chamber of Commerce, Abela said the rapid growth of recent years has created new challenges, but also opened opportunities for investment in knowledge-based, capital-intensive sectors. He highlighted innovation, digitalisation and sustainability as key areas driving foreign direct investment, which has doubled job creation in recent years. Abela pledged continued support for enterprises through agencies such as Malta Enterprise while ensuring Malta remains attractive for foreign investment. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining a level playing field within the European Union, to prevent local enterprises from losing competitiveness. (Maltatoday)
