Bonds - New showroom inaugurated Bonds have recently inaugurated their newly refurbished showroom in Notabile Road, Attard. This project involved extensive reconstruction of the two existing floors and the construction of two new floors. Bonds is a dynamic company which recognizes the need to change, to keep up with the latest techno... [full article]

Justin Tonna looks at the recent announcement of the package being offered to Maltese and Gozitan bus drivers and wonders if this is what we really need? There is no denying that many of the buses that ply our roads need to be hauled over. The black clouds of belching smoke, the bone shaking ride and a piece of string to pull, to signal the dr... [full article]

The new Polo stands for German engineering, craftsmanship and superior cutting edge technology. At the same time it is a fresh, youthful and cosmopolitan car! The fifth generation Polo was designed to address customer expectations with even greater uncompromising alignment. That is why we are naturally very pleased to see our efforts validated in the form of thi... [full article]

Following the first monthly ECB meeting for the year 2010, the European Central Bank has once more retained its Main Refinancing Operation (MRO) unchanged at 1%. Euribor rates remained pegged at practically the same level with the one month Euribor at less than 0.5%. Jeanette Gatt, Front Office Manager of Volksbank Malta Limited, noted that the... [full article]

Marco Cremona, a hydrologist and water treatment engineer, has been working on a variety of water recycling projects since 2006. Justin Tonna met with him to learn about a new project that has won international acclaim. Although our planets surface is primarily water, drinking water is still a scarce commodity and the cost of producing and transp... [full article]

The family business model is the most common business unit, both globally as well as locally, with an estimated 70% of all local businesses taking the form of the family business. Family businesses have proven resilient in the face of the global financial meltdown, with their value driven and principles based approach weathering the worst of the financial storm.... [full article]

Premier Capital Limited operates McDonalds restaurants in four countries, including Malta. Justin Tonna met with Melo Hili, the companys managing director, to learn more about their operation and their future plans for expansion. Premier Capital Limited took over the local McDonalds franchise in 2005. At that time it consisted of eight restaurant... [full article]

A company continuously known for excelling in the IT sector, Rainer van Beckum talks to David Clancy to discuss the world from the perspective of Megabyte Ltd With 30 years of experience in the IT sector, Rainer van Beckum is now the newly appointed CEO of Megabyte Ltd, taking the helm after the retirement of John Ambrogio. The company prides its... [full article]

Business, especially in Malta, is a family affair. Justin Tonna speaks to 2M Management Consultancy Limited and Family Business Solutions Limited, the partners in FBS2M Family Business Solutions, to learn more about what they are doing within this important field. Family businesses are very important to the Maltese economy, Mario Duca, managing d... [full article]

Established in Ireland in 1989, Custom House offers a global hedge fund administration service through its fully integrated network of offices in Malta, Chicago, Dublin, Luxembourg and Singapore, 24 hours a day during the working week and recently awarded the FundDomiciles.com Best Administrator for Malta award This around the clock service covers all aspects ... [full article]

The Economic Update meets with Karl Cini, partner of NEXIA BT, an independent accounting and consulting firm, to discuss the benefits of membership with Nexia International and the taxation of e-commerce in Europe. Established in 1992, Brian Tonna Co has recently changed its name to Nexia BT to consolidate further its membership with Nexia Inter... [full article]

The industrial production of medicinal products has led to increased sophistication of the markets products. New, innovative medicinal products have seen breakthroughs in the treatment of many ailments and chronic diseases. But efficacy comes at a cost, and human medicines must have a positive risk-benefit. Understandably then, medicines are todays most high... [full article]

When looking to conduct business in foreign nations it is always essential to understand, adapt to, and take onboard the different customs and traditions of said nation- especially if these traditions are engrained deeply within society. We identify some of the quintessential familiarities for conducting business in Libya. The concept of wasta, wh... [full article]

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, born June 7th 1942, has been criticised by virtually every western world leader to date, but recent years have shown the world a new, more diplomatic and accepting Gaddafi. He is an altogether more peaceful leader of the emirate nation. Gaddafi, having started life as the youngest of a peasant family, was probably ne... [full article]

Asphalt mixtures with Sealoflex binders can be produced in any hot-mix asphalt plant. Sealoflex can be used in all asphalt layers. To guarantee the highest quality, Sealoflex which is 100 per cent recyclable is only manufactured in a plant according to stricly laid down procedures and supplied in homogenous material according to precise specifications und... [full article]

Emirates shines bright in the land of the rising sun Seven years since launching operations to Osaka, Emirates has unveiled plans to launch direct services to Tokyo Japans capital city and one of the worlds foremost economic centres. Tokyo will be Emirates 102nd international destination, and closely follows the recent launch of operat... [full article]

With our feet barely in 2010, Justin Tonna looks at what the coming year holds for business and whether or not this year will be a good one. The festive season, now past us, is always a good indicator of the year to come. Strong spending hints that purse strings are opening up and provide businesses with a badly needed injection of cash after the l... [full article]

In 1907 two teenage entrepreneurs, Claude Ryan and Jim Casey created what would become the worlds largest package delivery service in a Seattle basement with a 100 dollar loan under the name American Messenger Company. With telephones and automobiles scarce, the company fulfilled a range of tasks from running errands and carrying notes on foot or on bicycle to... [full article]

A trip into the Sahara Desert, trick-or-treat for kids at a Halloween Party and a Christmas Party in a Piazza many would struggle to grasp the connection between these events, but not the first 150 tenants to live within the luxurious surroundings of Palm City, Mediterranean Investments Holding plcs landmark project in Janzour, Libya. With 75 unit... [full article]

A prototype or architectural model within hours is no longer a fantasy. EXALTA is now providing this service with technology by 3D world-leader Z Corporation. Alfred Camilleri and Ryan Mallia of Exalta are selling a new service on the Maltese and Libyan markets: the latest kind of 3D prototyping which uses technology by the US company Z Corporation... [full article]

All external glass apertures at the 180 million Fort Cambridge residential project will be glazed thereby ensuring good solar protection. This environmental friendly measure will result in a substantial energy saving especially when air-conditioning is in use. Glazing with solar protection is crucial for the comfort of people living or working in t... [full article]

Small businesses, the self employed, shop owners, sole traders and even some medium sized enterprises can lack the IT skills that could actually make their operation far more efficient. Ray Abela, managing director of computer training company TCTC, has developed a scheme to facilitate this. The newly launched EBIZ course is a project that will hel... [full article]

Keith Pillow and David Grech of Duplex Real Estate Branding meet with the Economic Updates David Clancy to discuss this years HSBC Malta Property Expo and the successes of 2009. Last years Property Expo proved a huge success for Duplex who established themselves in 2004, but they also identified areas where they could improve on the event. Last yea... [full article]

Island Hotels Group Holdings plc today announced the completion of the transaction with the Government of Malta and Air Malta plc whereby it acquired the perpetual emphytheusis over a tract of land of approximately 83,000 square metres adjacent to the Radisson Blu Golden Sands Resort and Spa as well as the shares in Hal Ferh Company Limited for a total cost o... [full article]

The global recession was a complex occurrence which affected us all in some way or another. David Clancy untangles the woven truth and explains the situation and resulting future plans in laymans terms. In 2007 and 2008, the worst financial crisis in decades spread through the global economy. The starting point? A sudden downturn in the over-inflat... [full article]

It has been 40 years since the Great Al-Fatah Revolution in Libya, and during this time Maltas relationship with its closest southern neighbour have always been good. Justin Tonna met with Anthony Micallef, Incoming President of the Libyan-Maltese Chamber of Commerce, an entity that also has a long history of facilitating business interests between these two ... [full article]

The Vella Brothers Group has expanded its business to become one of the leading logistics group on the island offering total logistics solutions in road, sea, air and passenger travel. The group consists of Emmanuel Vella Sons Ltd, Express Trailers Ltd., Express Freights Ltd., Eyre Travel Ltd and Eyre Cargo led by a professional and competent senior manageme... [full article]

Since its foundation in 1998, Electro Fix Ltd has been working hand in hand with stake holders, engineers and managers across the spectrum of industry from leisure facilities to large industrial companies. This 15 years experience has seen Electro Fix Ltd growing from a one man job to a well established company with an excellent track record and reputatio... [full article]

Every consumer of IT should make going greener a New Years resolution. But will we? Its easy to glance at the news headlines, see world leaders meeting in Copenhagen to discuss climate change and ignore our own carbon footprint. We hear the green mantra loud and clear, but theres a danger that we are getting fatigued with all the talk of green ... [full article]

Justin Tonna meets with Tonio Depasquale, Bank of Vallettas (BOV) CEO, to talk about the trials and tribulations of the last year, the banks excellent results, its community work and its support for Maltas economy. The position of chief executive officer of one of Maltas largest financial institutions is a distinguished one and the spacious third ... [full article]

Justin Tonna meets with Kenneth Farrugia, chairman of FinanceMalta, to learn about the function and operations of this organization. The financial sector in Malta has seen considerable growth in the last 20 years. With this growth came diversification and a broadening of the stakeholders that function within this industry. FinanceMalta is an org... [full article]

Focused on improving local IT standards, Clever Solutions Ltd is challenging the status quo by creating unique value added remedies to common business problems. The Economic Update caught up with Carmelo Romano, director of the company to sneak a peep at the past, present and future of Clever Solutions Ltd. After more than three decades working i... [full article]

Dakar Software is forever enhancing their products to meet the ever-changing needs of the world around them. David Schranz, founder and managing director of Dakar Software, discusses the success and future developments of the company with the Economic Update. Established 16 years ago by Mr Schranz, Dakar Software has now contracted more than 89 pe... [full article]

With the end of the year quickly approaching and with Christmas festivities gaining momentum it is opportune to start looking back at the way 2009 unfolded. Twelve months ago, the financial world was staring at the prospect of a collapse in the banking system and a potential crumbling of many markets. Shock and horror was reverberating around the ... [full article]

Established in 1890 by Francis Borg, and knowing its origins in Gozo, FXB is synonymous with quality furniture. Thanks to its skilled Gozitan and Maltese workforce, the company manufactures and imports quality, stylish furniture that withstands the test of time. FXB is a customer oriented company striving to satisfy the expectations of its clients. A highly tra... [full article]

Chevrolet Cruze Receives Maximum Five-Star Safety Rating in Europe The Chevrolet Cruze global compact sedan has earned the top rating of five stars from the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP), which released its latest safety ratings today. According to EuroNCAP, the Cruze scored 79 points out of 100, making it one of the ... [full article]

Romina Grech Fenech, managing director of A A Fenech discusses the recent diversification of business from the retail of jewellery and Phoenician Glass to maternity products after the opening of the new Prenatal store in Iklin. The Prenatal franchise is present in over 16 countries with more than 400 stores, and was established originally in Fran... [full article]

Smart Technologies Limited is a young dynamic company manned by experienced and highly qualified technical staff who ensure that their customers requirements are always adhered to. Founded in 2008 as a joint venture between four of Maltas largest and most respected group of companies, the companys main objective is to become the leader in the ICT Leasing sector... [full article]

* Positive trend for all volume brands in October * Groups cumulative deliveries in 2009 overtake prior year for first time * Group sales and marketing chief Wittig: Positive sales developments driven by China, Brazil and Germany Europe and the other countries remain weak.Wolfsburg, November 13, 2009 The Volkswagen Group reported continued ... [full article]

As the pioneer of high definition video communications, LifeSize(r) understands how companies connect. Weve learned that top quality communication is crucial for businesses of all sizes. But if interaction isnt cost-efficient, it simply isnt an option for any but the largest of businesses. Ryan Mallia Alfred Camilleri, Directors - Exalta Projects... [full article]

RelaxRecharge is an innovative company that specialises in workplace seated acupressure massage. This unique service has already launched late June this year (2009) and has, since, seen steady growth based on bookings and client satisfaction. Over the years our medical background suggested that many of our Maltese workforce experience musculoskeletal pain, many ... [full article]

Established as a choice for mid-sized to large organisations, Microsoft Dynamics NAV is a complete business management solution that offers everything you need to promote IT agility and foster a successful business environment. It represents a perfect fit for organisations looking for a single solution that can be rapidly deployed and easily maintained, withou... [full article]

One year after the opening of its first business centre in Malta, Regus, the worlds leading provider of workplace solutions, is making it possible for companies to do business in the country in a flexible, simple and cost effective way. Opened in December 2008, the Swatar City Centre and its team are welcoming and supporting more than 50 clients ... [full article]

The Economic Update catches up with locally owned Philip Toledo Ltd, one of Maltas largest and leading IT companies, to find out how the sector has been affected over the past year, and what they see in the near future. Established in 1946, Philip Toledo Ltd is Maltas oldest privately-owned information technology company, providing IT and Securi... [full article]

The appointment of a qualified and recognized insurance broker, who is an intermediary, will automatically give you access to insurance knowledge and experts whose main objective is to safeguard your interests. Insurance brokers, especially those linked to international firms like Aon, have access to both the local and overseas market particular... [full article]

With debts of around $80 billion, JUSTIN TONNA looks at fallout from the crumbing markets in Dubai and what is being done to salvage the remains of the Sheiks dream. A shockwave recently travelled through the world markets following Dubai Worlds Dubais flagship company recent request to delay interest payments. So far Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid... [full article]

The Federation of Estate Agents (FEA), which represents around 40 Maltese Real Estate Agents, including all leading agencies, recently held its annual general meeting at the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Enterprise in Valletta. Ian Casolani, President of the FEA and Real Estate section within the Chamber of Commerce, chaired the meeting, which proposed and a... [full article]

Returning from a three day estate planning seminar organised by PKF in North America I have fully enjoyed the ambience in San Francisco and was intrigued at the opportunities that lie untapped for us in this sector. The conference was hosted at the prestigious Grand Hyatt Hotel which is situated only one block away from Union Square, the latter famed as the... [full article]

Sara Grech is a well respected brand name in the local property market. As the industry goes through a turbulent period and many real estate consultants find their skills put to the test, Justin Tonna meets with Sara Grech personally, to ask her what she considers to be the key qualities for professionals in the industry. With over 20 years in b... [full article]

The Economic Update caught up with Colette Schembri, owner of Makeover, to talk about her successes and the challenges she has faced within the industry in The Economic Update talks to Jonathan Vella, commercial director at Express Trailers Limited, to learn about his career and the last year of operations.. What is your background and how did ... [full article]

The Economic Update caught up with Colette Schembri, owner of Makeover, to talk about her successes and the challenges she has faced within the industry in 2009. What is your background and how did you attain the position you now hold? I am a pharmacist and also studied nutrition at post-graduate level at the University of Malta and later contin... [full article]

The history of Vassallo Builders began in 1946 when Pio Vassallo saw a war torn Malta and decided to help with the islands reconstruction. My father became the first managing director in 1971 when we registered as a limited liability company, Pio Vassallo, grandson of the founder and current CEO, says. We have grown considerably with the years ... [full article]

With the recent opening of the new UPIM department store in Valletta, the Economic Update caught up with the Peresso family to discuss the events and see the ideas behind the brand. A second generation Peresso, aged 57, Emanuel Peresso founded Michele Peresso Limited, after working for some years in his fathers printing press, which was establish... [full article]

GasanMamo Insurance has been a stable fixture on the local insurance scene for the last ten years.JUSTIN TONNA met with Albert P. Mamo, its managing director, to discuss the ups and downs that the company has seen in this time. Starting out in any merger comes down to a leap of faith, Mr Mamo begins with characteristic frankness. And like in an... [full article]

The Computer Training Centre Limited (TCTC) is a household name in the learning industry. Justin Tonna met with Ray Abela, the companys managing director, to learn about his career and his companys operations. The company originally started out in 1987, Mr Abela recalls. I had been working in the IT field for some time and became involved in teac... [full article]

Five years after entry into the EU, Maltas e-gaming sector is still going strong. With the jurisdiction being hailed as an example of best practice, it is still attracting new players to the scene. The Economic Update spoke to Jonathan Dalli, the recently appointed head of marketing at e-Management Group to learn more about this sector. Sat in a ... [full article]

Wininvest Group Managing Director, Dieter Fenech, has reason to be quietly confident this year. Mr Fenech explains all to the Economic Update. The Wininvest Group who are presently developing the Blue Harbour Project in Ta Xbiex are now in the final stages of completing the residential component of their flagship development.Blue Harbour has established itself... [full article]

M Demajo Group is amongst Maltas largest privately owned organisations. The Economic Update met with Martin Mercieca, chairperson corporate marketing unit, Rachel Balzan Demajo, group marketing director, and corporate marketing unit board members Martin Borg, David Raphael Busuttil and Gail Dunkerley. What is the function of the CMU? Martin Merci... [full article]

Swedish Childrens footwear chain, Vincent Shoe Store, recently opened a branch in Tower Road, Sliema. The Economic Update caught up with designer, Thomas Elbaum, to find out the inspiration behind the brand. Vincent Shoe Store specializes in cutting-edge designer footwear for children aged from 6 months to 8 years old with a range of fun and func... [full article]

As more and more businesses look to streamline their monthly expenses to remain competitive, one Telecoms Operator is shining through the clouds of a budget conscience economy.Just one year after a complete roll-out of its own Broadband Wireles Access network, SKY Telecom Managing Director, John Dougall explains that SKY has now proved to its customers the re... [full article]

There have been several notable revolutions in lighting throughout history. Take the transition of light generated by fire and whaleoil, then to gas as lamp fuel, followed by the exchange of gas for electricity and the incandescent bulb. More recently there have been initiatives to conserve energy through the use of compact fluorescent tubes to displace the ... [full article]

Any event associated with your company must be both unique and memorable. You want to create a lasting impression upon your clientele that facilitates future business transactions. Where better to achieve this than in the opulence of one of Maltas most elegant stately homes, while allowing your guests to enjoy the superlative attention of one of the industrys... [full article]

After 90 years of operations, the Mizzi Organisation has become a household name amongst Maltese consumers. On the eve of a new bond issue, Justin Tonna caught up with Dr John C. Grech, the Organisations chairman, to learn more about this key player on the local business scene. The Mizzi Organisation was founded in 1919 by Spiridione Mizzi. Today it ... [full article]

Globally, many newspapers have niche markets which are costly to provide for. But Miller Distributors Limited has pioneered new technology to solve this problem. The Economic Update caught up with Malcolm Miller, chief executive of Miller Distributors Limited, and Adrian Clarke, publisher of the Financial Times Europe edition, to find out more. The... [full article]

Announced as Maltas mega-project, SmartCity Malta should be seeing its first tenants in July 2010. But is the project still on track? Justin Tonna met with Fareed Abdulrahman, SmartCity Maltas CEO to find out more Encompassing 360,000 square metres the SmartCity development is a sprawling one, which sees 103,000 square metres of this allocated to off... [full article]

The Malta International Training Centre recently moved its office into new premises at TG Complex in Mriehel. The Economic Update caught up with Andre Farrugia, Director of Studies, to find out what else is happening in the organisation. The organisation initially engaged foreign expertise to train and manage the training requirements of the industry... [full article]

Politics might not have the glamour of the movies, or the sheer opulence of business tycoons, but those involved in public life often get a pretty good deal on their lifestyle.Dinners and lunches are the stock in trade of a political workhorse, a fact that is often testified to by their waistlines. But perhaps the most extravagant of these has to be Sarkozys... [full article]

The task of organizing a conference can be stressful and overwhelming for even the calmest of people. But the event itself generally promises to yield rewards in exchange for your hard work as contacts are gained and promotions are heard. Like any kind of party, be it formal or informal, the key to a well oiled conference machine is to fastidiously plan ever... [full article]

Powerhouse Ltd, a member of the Synergix Events Group, offers a vast range of powerful audiovisual solutions for events and conferences, and could offer its services for your companys next international activity. Numerous local companies have links to foreign ones and often attend conferences or seminars abroad, explains Powerhouse managing director Mark Vel... [full article]

For over 30 years, Studio 7, an audio visual service provider has excelled in focusing on corporate client requirements throughout the years in renting equipment ranging from audio, visual, simultaneous interpretation to lighting, staging and backdrops. Its expertise developed also in delivering media productions to a very extensive range of corporate client... [full article]

G.B. Jewellery is currently celebrating 25 years of success under the management of George and Joan Josette Busuttil, and for this occasion G.B. Jewellery will be opening a new outlet in Gzira shortly.Our vision was always to modernize our designs and the tools, which we use in serving our clients. Services that include the repairs of watches, gold and silve... [full article]

Fed up with the idea of the same old Christmas party or meal?Christmas should be a time for coming together, joining forces and looking with hope to the coming year. For that reason, team building activities make a great, fun-filled alternative to the traditional ways for companies to thank their staff for their hard work throughout the year. Outdoor Living ... [full article]

Its been said that you only get one chance to make a first impression so you must get it right. Perhaps the most important part of your presentation at a conference or exhibit is the presentation of yourself. You must remember that the event itself is only half the battle. Not only are you trying to sell your product or idea, youre also trying to sell you... [full article]

If you want to know whats going on in your business then its time to add some The education system in Malta has always fuelled debate throughout the nation. The Economic Update caught up with Nick Callus, Chairman of Domain Group, to find out his opinions on the sector.. Computer Domain, Maltas leading ICT private training facility, started as a part-... [full article]

If you want to know whats going on in your business then its time to add some intelligence. Do you know who your best customers or suppliers are? You may think its as simple as knowing who spends the most or who offers the best price. But what if your big spending customers also take the longest time to pay, or are purchasing your least profitable pro... [full article]

This summer has seen the newly formed partnership between TBWA and ANG solidify and bring together two very well respected companies. We spoke to Bertrand Attard, CEO of TBWA/ANG to find out more about the company. ANG is a media buying advertising agency based here in Malta, whilst TBWA is a global networking agency that brings companies together thr... [full article]

Mark Watson, CEO of the recently launched Mediterranean Bank, talks to us about the banks plans for wealth management, savings and investments as he puts his European experience to worldwide use. Mr Watson began his career with Salomon Brothers working in fixed income. However, having spent a large portion of my career in large corporations, I wanted ... [full article]

Baker Tilly in Malta Baker Tilly Sant is a firm of accountants and business advisors which can trace its roots to the 1960s, and is the independent member firm of Baker Tilly International in Malta. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at servicing business requirements for local and international clients through the expertise that ... [full article]

Technology loves versions. No sooner have we all upgraded to the latest point whatever release of a browser or particular software, than its improved upon. Now, that amorphous being the web is following suit; even though, as a constantly-evolving entity, it cant really take the neat development route of new releases. If you hadnt already noticed, weve passed... [full article]

In the wake of the Russia US summit, SERGEI GOLOVKIN discusses the history of nuclear weapons, and the geopolitics of arms control. On the 6th of August 1945, the US detonated the first ever nuclear device deployed in an offensive military operation over the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Three days later, another device exploded over the city of Nag... [full article]

During times of economic uncertainty, businesses should focus more on making the right choices that drive costs down and enable more cautious management of business performance. Decisions made in a downturn economy might prove to be more meaningful than decisions made in a growing economy. Such a situation presents an opportunity for companies to address s... [full article]

Daniel Reginiano has a proven track record in the business world, having helped develop the Urban Jungle stores into the giant it has become today. However, this city boy has now stepped away from the designer fashion brands and turned his hand to farming. He explains to JUSTIN TONNA why As I sit with Daniel on his dining table my eyes wander aroun... [full article]

The Battery Buster Campaign, which is managed by WasteServ Malta Ltd and sponsored and supported by FIMBank plc, is being extended to reach the general public. After targeting schools earlier this year, the Battery Buster Campaign is now focusing on supermarkets, shopping complexes and other centrally-located retail outlets in Malta and Gozo. Battery Buster... [full article]

For many people the idea of marble work conjures up a traditional image of a sculptor carefully chipping away at a block of marble to reveal the masterpiece that lies concealed within. However, the commercial aspect of stone work is decidedly more high-tech Entering the marble works at Bottega del Marmista, I walk between rows of large marble slabs to meet... [full article]

The Economic Update talks to Giuseppe Vincelli, general manager of InterContinental Malta, about recent and future occurrences within the tourism industry of Malta.Italian born Giuseppe Vincelli was appointed as general manager of the InterContinental Malta in February this year, and has over 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, with his rsum incl... [full article]

VRF is a commonly used term in the air conditioning sector, meaning variable refrigerant flow. This system consists of a number of air handling units (a/c indoor units), connected to an external condensing unit (outdoor unit), and allows refrigerant flow to be varied using an inverter controlled variable speed compressor/s in response to changes in demand ei... [full article]

Reducing ones carbon footprint can pose some difficult personal choices, but imagine making an entire region climate-friendly! Here the choices are even tougher, particularly when the targets for the reduction of carbon emissions are legally binding Contrary to some popular myths, not all choices amount to a zero sum game, where if one side wins, t... [full article]

Louis Aquilina, Head, General Business Underwriting, Citadel Insurance plcInsurance is a must for all businesses. Ones priority is to protect the most valuable asset property. But it is very important to purchase the right type of cover for your operation. Business insurance is not 'one-size-fits-all'. There are many package policies available on ... [full article]

For two decades now in Malta, information technology has been a prime enabler of more efficient citizen- government interaction. The internet brought about the drive for e-government and most of us now have fairly open access to all manner of government services and information online. However, e-government has not brought about much in the way o... [full article]

Over the years, Maltas economy has moved away from traditional manufacturing to more specialized, high-skilled work - requiring highly qualified, technically competent employees. As a result, Malta has been striving to attract foreign investment in areas that are more suited to a small state in todays age. The financial services, gaming and betting, and th... [full article]

Malta, like many Mediterranean countries, is stooped in traditionalism. It is these traditions that often hold the identity of a nation, but can simultaneously result in the continued discrimination against groups that have long been oppressed such as the female of our own species. In the past, it has been conventional for women to simply get mar... [full article]

With the results of the recent European Parliament elections done and dusted, it does appear that there has not been much fallout from the actual outcome as it is still business as usual in more ways than one especially for the government. However the situation is far from rosy at the moment and if one had to ignore this result it would really be fickle as t... [full article]

In these uncertain times of financial distress, an all too unwelcome consequence of our current economic situation is an upswing in bankruptcy filings. This can be further complicated by todays global economy, where many companies engage in world-wide business transactions. Imagine a situation where an international client files for bankruptcy protection in ... [full article]

We repeatedly tell our staff to switch off lights, to cut down on our energy usage and to generally save money. After all, saved money is directly added on to profit and it carries virtually no cost with it essentially free money.Malta Enterprise is currently running a scheme using European funds to help companies save money on their energy bill one of the... [full article]

Have the storms over Cloud Computing blown over since Gmails great outage earlier this year? We look at its prospects. To kick off any discussion on cloud computing, we need to define it. While it seems a newly-coined term, cloud computing has been around in technology parlance since the 1960s. Its roots lie also in the cloud-like diagrams, similar t... [full article]

The maritime sector in Malta has been growing steadily for the past 15 years. However this growth has hit somewhat of a snag recently with the scarcity of space in yacht marinas. A lack of berths directly impacts the boating, as well as other sectors of the local economy in numerous ways mostly in opportunity cost. Boats and boaters are out there, and their... [full article]

JUSTIN TONNA meets Dr Franco Debono, a Nationalist MP and criminal lawyer, to learn about his wide ranging views on party regulation, divorce, the environment and a parliamentary television station... Dr Debono is young the youngest Nationalist MP in fact and communicates with the great passion that characterises his generation. Although he choos... [full article]

Being fined when driving around is a particularly annoying experience with wardens often being receiving the brunt of the frustration even though they are only doing their job. In an exclusive interview with The Economic Update, KDM Group managing director Kenneth De Martino explains his groups strategy in the areas of enforcement and parking, and how they ... [full article]

After almost a year of taking on the helm of the Malta Restaurants and Hotels Association (MHRA), Kevin Decesare speaks to Gerald Fenech on the challenges facing the industry and the prospects which lie ahead. Kevin Decesare is a man who is not afraid to speak his mind he has done so several times in the past and the fact that he has been MHRA Pre... [full article]

Doing business is all about risk. Whether you are accepting new debtors, investing in projects, or even taking on new brands you must analyse and contro