Merkanti Bank to Give Up Licence and Wind Down Operations Malta-based Merkanti Bank has formally announced plans to surrender its banking licence and transition into an unregulated entity, following board approval subject to regulatory clearance. The decision comes after around 20 employees were informed that operations would be wound down and jobs made redundant. In a company announcement issued through the Malta Stock Exchange, Merkanti Holding plc said the process remains subject to approval and guidance from the Malta Financial Services Authority. All customer deposits are to be repaid in full, with the transition expected to unfold over the coming months. The company stated that the move is not expected to have a material impact on its financial position or its ability to meet bondholder obligations, reiterating that the licence surrender aims to streamline costs and improve profitability. (Newsbook)
Christmas Sees Record Passenger Numbers Crossing to Gozo Passenger traffic between Malta and Gozo reached a new record over the Christmas and New Year period, with more than 301,000 people crossing the channel, according to government figures. Between 22 December 2025 and 4 January 2026, Gozo Channel ferries carried 258,710 passengers, a 6.7 per cent increase on the same period last year. The Gozo Highspeed fast ferry service added a further 42,331 passengers, marking a year-on-year rise of just over 29 per cent. Combined, the two services registered an overall increase of 9.3 per cent compared to last Christmas. Minister for Gozo and Planning Clint Camilleri said the figures reflect growing interest in Gozo as a festive short-break destination and encourage continued investment to support year-round activity. (The Malta Independent)
Tower Height Increase Raises Fresh Visual Impact Concerns A proposed 40-storey tower in Paceville is expected to cast morning shadows over homes in Swieqi and Paceville and bring what experts describe as “irreversible” changes to long-range views across parts of the island, according to a new environmental impact assessment. The updated study by econsulting follows amendments to two development permits approved in 2022 and 2023. Developer Paul Xuereb has since applied to increase the project’s footprint and raise the building from 33 to 40 floors, prompting a reassessment of its effects. Beyond its expanded scale, the project has also undergone a major aesthetic rethink, replacing the previously distinctive perforated facade with a more conventional architectural design. (Times of Malta)
