Updated – Malta News Briefing – Thursday 19 November 2024

Updated 1100

Inflation, environment main concerns for Maltese citizens – Eurobarometer: The latest Eurobarometer survey highlights inflation and the environment as top concerns for Maltese citizens, alongside issues like immigration and geopolitical tensions. Conducted in October 2024 with 500 participants aged 15+, the survey explored perceptions of personal and national situations, trust in institutions, and views on the EU. Most respondents (89%) are satisfied with their lives, exceeding the EU average of 86%. Inflation is the leading personal and national concern, cited by 53% and 43% respectively, while 24% mentioned environmental issues. Trust in EU institutions remains high, with 91% acknowledging the EU’s economic, social, and cultural benefits. Support for the euro is strong, though only 54% trust local media. Attachment to Malta and optimism about the EU remain robust.

First additional COLA payment for 2025 to be made this weekend: The first of two additional Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) payments will be issued this weekend to support over 97,000 families facing inflation. Social Policy Minister Michael Falzon announced this during a media briefing, highlighting the government’s €24 million investment. The benefit, capped at €1,500 annually, considers family income (net of tax and social security) and size, based on 2023 data. Lower-income families and larger households receive higher payments. Permanent Secretary Mark Musù explained that eligibility depends on income below 60% of the national median and family size. This expansion aims to assist more families effectively.

Morning Briefing

HSBC to provide information on potential transfer of shareholding in Feb AGM

HSBC Bank Malta has announced an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) scheduled for February 13 to seek shareholder approval for the disclosure of information related to a potential transfer of a substantial shareholding. In November, the bank revealed that its parent company, HSBC Holdings, had been approached by several parties expressing interest in acquiring its 70.03% stake and had requested permission to conduct due diligence. The EGM will focus on obtaining authorisation to provide necessary information, including unpublished price-sensitive details, to bona fide offerors and their advisers as part of the process. (Times of Malta)

PM joins Summit with West Balkans

Prime Minister Robert Abela has joined EU leaders and their Western Balkan counterparts in Brussels for a summit.Discussions will focus on advancing integration through the EU enlargement plan, enhancing political and policy engagement with the Western Balkans, and fostering economic development. Key topics also include managing the impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine, cooperation on immigration, and combating corruption and organised crime. The leaders will also address current geopolitical challenges and their impact on both regions. (TVM)

Son of former police commissioner suspended after alleged leaks

Kurt Rizzo, son of former police commissioner John Rizzo, has been identified as the officer under investigation for allegedly leaking information to third parties. Currently suspended from duty and on police bail, Rizzo recently tested positive for cocaine. He serves in the police’s Special Intervention Unit, responsible for VIP security, and was part of European Parliament President Roberta Metsola’s security detail during her visit to the Naxxar counting hall last June. Rizzo is also the brother of a magistrate. (Maltatoday)