As a leading financial institution in Malta, how does your bank support foreign investors looking to establish or expand their businesses here?

Our banking services are specifically tailored to support entities investing in Malta, particularly those requiring licensing by a regulator in Malta. The country offers several opportunities to international investors to set up their operations here, and we aim to support this growth as effectively as possible.

In your experience, what are the most common financial challenges that foreign investors face when setting up in Malta, and how does your bank help address these issues?

Rather than facing financial challenges per se, I would say that it is more about obtaining the correct advice and understanding the correct processes to follow. Effective guidance, thorough knowledge of local regulations and managed expectations are key to successful partnerships. Our team has in-depth knowledge and expertise in our specialist sectors, allowing us to guide potential investors effectively and manage expectations from the outset.

Malta has been working to position itself as a fintech hub. From a banking perspective, how is the country’s financial infrastructure evolving to accommodate innovative businesses and new technologies?

“Effective guidance, thorough knowledge of local regulations and managed expectations are key to successful partnerships.”

Malta is well-positioned in this respect, remaining at the forefront with a suite of regulations that support this sector and that several other jurisdictions seem to struggle to implement, such as the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) Regulation.

How would you assess Malta’s current economic climate for foreign investment?

Malta is well-positioned for foreign investment, offering an EU jurisdiction with a robust framework and a network of service providers that enable businesses to establish operations effectively and quickly.

Given the global emphasis on anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations, how does your bank balance the need for stringent compliance with providing efficient services to foreign investors? What should new investors be prepared for in this regard?

There is no compromise in this space – the laws and regulations are clear, and strict adherence is non-negotiable. These regulations are harmonised across the European Union, making it not just a Malta-specific issue. Savvy and experienced investors understand and welcome (and expect) stringent levels of compliance, as they support product integrity and instil confidence in the professional standards upheld by local practitioners.