Bank of Valletta hosted an afternoon session on financial planning for its clients of BOV Investment Centre in Bir-id-Deheb and its respective satellite branches at the Razzett tal-Hbiberija in Marsaskala.
Lawrence Farrugia and Robert Grech from the bank's Retail Business Support Unit held a brief presentation during which they spoke of the natural evolution of one's financial priorities. "There is no magic formula that fits everyone all the time," explained Mr Farrugia. "It is important to have a clear understanding of one's long-term goals, and work one's way slowly towards them," he said. Expanding on his colleague's explanation, Robert Grech said: "In order to ensure that one can maintain one's current lifestyle after reaching retirement age, one must plan ahead, particularly in view of the rising life expectancy age. In fact, the United Nations is forecasting an average life expectancy of 84 for Malta by 2050."
Following the presentation, Grace Debono, head of the unit, explained that these sessions are being organised by the bank because "we believe that an investment in knowledge always pays the best interest. At Bank of Valletta, we want to invest in the knowledge of our clients, so that they are then better able to take informed investment decisions. We are putting all our resources - the expertise of our people and our technical support - at their disposal, so that they have the peace of mind of taking decisions, cognisant of their circumstances and personal goals."
The speakers expressed their satisfaction with the positive turnout for the event. They thanked Mr Ethelbert Perini, manager of the BOV Investment Centre in Bir id-Deheb and his team, who work closely with both the clients and their relationship manager at the respective branches, in order to ensure that clients receive a seamless service, which covers both their day-to-day banking requirements and their longer-term goals. "The bank's major strength is its customer focus, which permeates all areas of the business," said Ms Debono. "This is the golden thread that runs through all our areas of specialisation, from credit to investments, and also incorporating the self-service banking channels, that serve to making banking even more accessible particularly in today's increasingly dynamic world."
The networking opportunity at the end of the event enabled clients to discuss their personal concerns with their relationship managers on a one-to-one basis.
Similar events are earmarked for later on this year. For inquiries or further details, one may contact the bank's Customer Service Centre on 2131 2020, or refer to one's branch.