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?

Establishing an operation in a new country involves various challenges. Pre-investment research is an essential part of this process, where potential investors evaluate the economic and business climate to assess the viability of expanding operations internationally. Key financial considerations include ease of payments and access to financing.

Bank of Valletta employs a tailored approach, recognising that each customer’s requirements are unique and necessitate customised solutions. The bank collaborates closely with potential investors, offering guidance and developing solutions for their banking and financing needs based on the specific requirements of each client and the sector in which they intend to operate.

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?

Over the past two decades, Malta has launched various initiatives aimed at strengthening its value proposition as a fintech hub. Significant investments have been made in both the financial infrastructure and the telecoms sector, all aimed at attracting innovative businesses and supporting new technologies.

“Malta’s economy excels compared to other European countries, with strong GDP growth and low unemployment making it attractive to investors.”

How would you assess Malta’s current economic climate for foreign investment? Are there particular sectors that you believe offer the most promising opportunities for investors?

Malta’s economy excels compared to other European countries, with strong GDP growth and low unemployment making it attractive to investors. Key sectors for international investment include hospitality, advanced manufacturing, aviation, maritime, gaming, ICT, and financial and fintech services.

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?

The bank’s anti-money laundering and know-your-customer regulations apply equally to all customers, regardless of whether they are local or foreign investors. The bank employs a risk-based approach that is influenced by the nature of the business activity and the corresponding risk profile of the customer.

Banks generally follow a detailed process to ensure that customer profiles are current, relevant, and up-to-date. Efforts are made to balance efficiency with compliance obligations. Customers recognise that KYC and due diligence requirements are standard practice worldwide and understand that accurate, relevant data enhances their banking experience while protecting their financial integrity