Financial Crime World

Malta’s Financial Sector Regulatory Bodies: A Beacon of Stability and Growth

======================================================

Malta has established itself as a leading European financial centre, boasting a unique blend of high regulatory standards, rigorous enforcement, and a commercial, business-savvy attitude. Since joining the EU in 2004, the country’s financial services sector has experienced rapid growth, establishing Malta as a sound and sophisticated financial system.

The Regulatory Framework


The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is the single regulator for all financial services in Malta, responsible for:

  • Regulating and supervising licensed entities
  • Issuing guidance notes
  • Monitoring local and international developments
  • Training

The MFSA seeks to encourage the highest standards of compliance while maintaining a flexible environment that promotes business activity.

Advantages of Malta’s Financial Sector


Malta’s status as an EU member state ensures adherence to the highest regulatory standards, granting added reputability to the country as a European financial services hub. Additionally:

  • Very low set-up and operational costs
  • Fiscal base
  • Attractive location for businesses seeking to tap into the European, North African, and Middle Eastern markets

Key Drivers of Success


Malta’s success as an international financial services centre can be attributed to:

  • English-speaking workforce
  • Geographical location
  • Excellent legislative frameworks
  • MFSA’s commitment to maintaining high standards of compliance

These factors have made Malta a popular choice for:

  • Hedge funds
  • Insurance captives
  • Fund managers
  • Investment services providers
  • Credit institutions
  • Insurance intermediaries
  • Forex operators

Chetcuti Cauchi’s Expertise


Chetcuti Cauchi’s Malta Financial Services Team comprises a multi-disciplinary team of lawyers, accountants, and tax specialists with unrivalled expertise in the financial services sector. Our team provides:

  • Results-driven commercial advice to financial entities on complex transactions and challenging business issues
  • Advice on setting up and operating from a Maltese regulatory and legal perspective
  • Tax advice on the most appropriate and tax-efficient structure for each case
  • Ongoing monitoring and compliance advice

Why Choose Malta?


Malta’s financial sector regulatory bodies have positioned Chetcuti Cauchi as the go-to advisor for discerning operators seeking a one-stop-shop financial services solution provider in Malta. With its unique combination of high regulatory standards, low costs, and business-friendly environment, Malta is an attractive destination for financial institutions looking to establish or expand their operations in Europe.

Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how we can help your financial institution thrive in Malta!