Since joining the EU six years ago, the Maltese banking sector has flourished and the country has developed a firm yet flexible regulatory regime, supported by the European regulatory environment. In this Masterclass, Professor Joseph Bannister, president of the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), discusses the recent restructuring of the authority and how it aims to further strengthen Malta's status as an international financial centre. Writer Michael Imeson

Malta's insurance sector is highly oriented towards international insurers, with insurance management companies based in the country heavily involved in helping to run them on behalf of their parent organisations.

Tonio Fenech, minister of finance, economy and investment of Malta
Malta has benefited from adopting the euro and its economy is doing better than many others in the eurozone, says its minister of finance, economy and investment, Tonio Fenech. Writer Michael Imeson

Dr Lawrence Gonzi, prime minister of Malta

Malta might be tiny but it is determined to make itself heard on the world stage. Dr Lawrence Gonzi, prime minister of Malta, explains how. Writer Michael Imeson

There has been plenty of talk globally about the need for banks to return to traditional values and operating models to avoid future financial turmoil. Malta is following this path and is reaping the rewards for its conservatism. Writer Michael Imeson.

Malta is throwing itself fully into the eurozone, which it joined in January, with plans to issue a Eurobond. Nick Kochan reports on how EU membership and the single currency have shaped the economy.

Professor Joe Bannister, chairman of Malta Financial Services Authority, talks to The Banker about the role of the regulator and its vision for the industry in Malta.

Bank of Valletta
Tonio Depasquale, CEO

While the EU’s political and currency projects grind to a halt in many of the big states, Malta has just joined the ERM. Next stop, the euro. Michael Imeson reports.
The past few months have been tough for proponents of closer union in Europe. But in Malta, which joined the EU just over 12 months ago, the integration process continues.

Jan Wagner reports from Frankfurt on the unique powers of the German financial regulator but finds that its approach has not prevented banking troubles.