Global Finance, a leading American financial publication, has announced that HSBC Bank Malta has won the “Best Bank in Malta” category in its Best Emerging Market Banks 2005 awards. This is the second consecutive year HSBC Bank Malta has won this award, which is judged by the Global Finance magazine editors together with industry analysts, corporate executives and banking consultants.

“HSBC Bank Malta is clearly delighted to have won this prestigious award from one of the leading financial publications in the USA. This award adds to the already impressive collection HSBC Bank Malta has built up over recent years. Global Finance, through this award, has recognised the efforts of everyone at HSBC Bank Malta in delivering a high quality personalised service which is extended to commercial customers wishing to invest in Malta,” said HSBC’s chief executive officer, Shaun Wallis.

Developing markets, such as that of Malta, “are attracting increased attention as the global economy expands,” said Joseph D Giarraputo, publisher and president of Global Finance. “We have identified the banks that provide service to corporations seeking to take advantage of substantial opportunities for growth in a sometimes challenging environment.”

Global Finance, which is celebrating its 18th year, has 50,000 subscribers and more than 250,000 readers in over 158 countries. The magazine also boasts among its readers some 8000 portfolio investors who between them control more than 80 per cent of all assets under professional management.