The FinTalks - A chat with FinanceMalta

Episode 99: The IAIS and the Insurance Landscape of Tomorrow

In this #FinTalks episode, join us for an interesting conversation with Manuela Zweimueller, Special Advisor to the Secretary General, International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS). on the IAIS role in the Insurance Industry, the Systemic Holistic framework and how global warming will affect the future of the Insurance Industry. 

The International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) is the global standard-setting body responsible for developing and assisting in the implementation of principles, standards and guidance as well as supporting material for the supervision of the insurance sector.  

Episode 98: A discussion on the Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Regulation and Compliance

We sat down with Benjamin Ellul, Analyst – Office of the Chief Officer Supervision of the Malta Financial Services Authority to discuss the Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Regulation and Compliance. This postgraduate diploma is a collaboration between the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and the University of Malta, featuring lecturers from the MFSA, local industry, and international experts.

This programme will immerse you in the complex world of financial oversight and compliance. You will explore the regulations governing the financial sector, from international standards to local policies. Through both theoretical study and practical application, you'll gain a thorough understanding of regulatory frameworks, risk management practices, and ethical considerations vital for maintaining integrity within financial institutions. The course covers the evolving regulatory environment, analysing the impact of legislative changes and technological advancements on compliance processes. Case studies and simulations will help you develop the skills to assess compliance risks, implement effective control mechanisms, and confidently navigate complex regulatory landscapes. Whether you're an experienced professional or new to the field, this diploma provides the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in financial regulation and compliance.

Register on the MFSA's website before the 24th of July for more information about the programme and the application process.

Episode 97: Navigating Solvency II

In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Karel Van Hulle, Prof. em. KU Leuven and Honorary Professor Goethe University Frankfurt on Navigating Solvency II. 

Episode 96: The European Women on Boards Directive. What it means and why it matters

In this episode, we have a chat with Dr Stephanie Fabri, Economist and Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Economics, Management & Accountancy at the University of Malta about The European Women on Boards Directive.

In November 2022, the European Union (EU) adopted the Women on Boards Directive, a landmark policy aimed at improving the gender balance among directors of listed companies. This directive, which took 10 years to develop, has been met with both criticism and praise. What changes will it bring? And how does it compare to measures implemented in Malta? This podcast explores these questions and provides some answers.

Episode 95: Leading with Purpose: Kenneth Farrugia's First Year at the MFSA

Stepping into the role of CEO at the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) a year ago, Kenneth Farrugia faced a pivotal moment demanding swift and resolute leadership. As he took the reins, it marked the beginning of a journey marked by decisive action in navigating critical challenges.

Speaker Bio

Kenneth Farrugia, CEO of the MFSA, holds a Bachelor of Accountancy (Hons), an MA in Business Ethics, and is a Certified Public Accountant and a fellow member of the Malta Institute of Accountants (MIA). Throughout his career, Mr Farrugia held audit positions both within private audit firms and the public sector.

Prior to joining the MFSA, Mr Farrugia was the Director of the FIAU, Malta’s financial intelligence and single AML/CFT Supervisor and Enforcement Unit in Malta, for six years until April 2023. During his tenure he implemented major policy, system and procedural reforms within the various sections of the FIAU, including intelligence analysis, AML/CFT supervisory and enforcement initiatives, and legal and international relation areas. Additionally, Mr Farrugia spearheaded the setting up of new teams within the Unit such as the cash limitation supervisory team, the central bank account registry and data analytics team, as well as the strategy, policy and quality assurance teams to cater for new responsibilities assigned to the FIAU by law, and also to enhance the overall governance structure of the Unit. He represented the FIAU in international fora, including the EBA AMLC, FIU Platform and EGMONT, amongst others, and participated in various AML/CFT high-level committees.

For nine years up to 2017, he was engaged within the Government of Malta’s Internal Audit and Investigations Department (IAID) where he held various roles, including that of Director General. Mr Farrugia provided support to the Internal Audit & Investigations Board (IAIB) in drafting policies and procedures, implementing and managing the necessary change programmes and served as Secretary to that Board. He also participated in various meetings, seminars and conferences organised by the European Commission in the fields of auditing and financial investigations.

Mr Farrugia is currently also the Chairman of the FIAU.

Episode 94: Charting the Course: Malta's Role in Connecting Regulators and Crypto Innovators

In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Kevin Plumpton, Group CEO, Kyrrex about the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), and the benefits of having a crypto company licenced in Malta. 

Speaker's Bio

Kevin Plumpton is currently Group CEO at Kyrrex, an international digital finance firm, providing fiat and crypto products and services within an integrated Web 3 ecosystem. Kevin is also a warranted lawyer and boasts a decade of experience collaborating with local and international organizations, offering business management solutions, legal counsel, and regulatory expertise. He's a seasoned entrepreneur who founded successful startups, the latest of which was Diligex. As a practicing advocate, Kevin specialized in Finance, Business, Corporate Governance, Risk, and Compliance Legislation. He's a pioneer in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing Terrorism (CFT) compliance and is better known for his brainchild Due-Diligence platform, KYCMATIC. Kevin's interests also extend to finance and digital market technologies.

Episode 93: An Overview of Insurtech & Its Impact on the Insurance Industry

In this #FinTalks episode, we sit down with Dr. Beppe Sammut, Senior Associate within the insurance and pensions team of Ganado Advocates. Our conversation delves deep into the fascinating realm of 'Insurtech' and its profound influence on the dynamic landscape of the insurance industry. Dr. Sammut offers us a comprehensive overview, shedding light on the innovative technologies revolutionising insurance practices. Tune in as we explore the disruptive potential, challenges, and exciting opportunities that Insurtech brings to the forefront of the insurance sector.

Episode 92: Evaluating the Impact of Compliance and Risk Management

In this episode, join us for an insightful conversation with Daniela Pace Bonello, the Director of Compliance at Integra Private Wealth Ltd. We delve into the crucial topic of 'Evaluating the Impact of Compliance and Risk Management,' exploring its significance and implications in the financial landscape.

Episode 91: The Malta Financial Services Advisory Council Strategy Document - one year update

In this episode, we met with Pier Massa, Programme Office Leader of the Malta Financial Services Advisory Council (MFSAC) to discuss the one-year update on the strategy document. Join us as we explore the progress, challenges, and future plans shaping Malta's financial services sector.

Episode 90: Sowing seeds in the EU for future success

In a 30-minute special edition #FinTalks podcast, FinanceMalta had the unique opportunity to sit down with Ambassador Marlene Bonnici, the Permanent Representative of Malta to the European Union. Join us as we discuss the role of the permanent representation in Brussels and the importance of consensus building. 

 

Speaker Bio: 

Ambassador Marlene Bonnici has been in office as the Permanent Representative of Malta to the European Union since July 2020. She also served in the same office between July 2012 and July 2018 and led the first Maltese Presidency of the EU Council in 2017. She is the first Maltese female diplomat to occupy the position (twice) of Permanent Representative of Malta to the European Union. 

 

Ambassador Bonnici is a seasoned career diplomat. Prior to returning to Brussels in July 2020, she served as Ambassador to Germany as well as Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands and to the International Organisations based at The Hague. During the same period, Bonnici was also acting as the Permanent Representative of Malta to the OPCW.

 

Ambassador Bonnici has also served in key senior positions within the Government of the Republic of Malta, most of which relate to Malta-EU relations. Prior to her posting to Brussels in 2012, her name was synonymous with the management of EU funds in Malta, starting in 1999 as a Counsellor and Executive Secretary of the EU Assistance Coordination Task Force dealing with the Malta-EU Protocols and the first pre-accession instruments. In 2001 she set up the directorate to manage EU Structural and Cohesion Funds within the Office of the Prime Minister. In 2004 she became the Director General of the Planning and Priorities Co-Ordination Division and in 2011 she became Permanent Secretary for EU funds at the Office of the Prime Minister – responsible for the co-ordination of all EU Funds and other external financial instruments. Prior to that she served as a diplomat in the Embassies of Malta in Bonn and Brussels. Ambassador Bonnici’s career began in 1989 as a Teacher of German within the Ministry for Education in ​Malta.