Four years after the first BOV Investment Centre was set up, Bank of Valletta expressed its satisfaction with the keen response received from customers in relation to these Centres.

Speaking about the initiative during a visit to Qormi Investment Centre, Roberta Bellizzi, Manager Investment Centres Operations explained, "Bank of Valletta has evolved from a conventional retail bank to become a financial services organisation offering our clients the full spectrum of financial services and products. Over the years, we have built expertise in several specialised areas, including investment advice, wealth management, life assurance and stockbroking. However, one thing has remained constant - our customer-centric focus."

The model behind the regional Investment Centres emerged as a natural complement to the Bank's growing portfolio in the area of investment solutions. Strategically placed across Malta and Gozo, these Centres are manned by highly qualified and MFSA licensed Financial Advisors that assist customers with their financial needs, offering financial advice regarding their portfolio. In so doing, these Centres bridge the gap between the investment services offered at branch level and Wealth Management Centre which caters for the more affluent customers.

"At Bank of Valletta, we want to ensure that the benefits of offering the full spectrum of financial services accrue to the customer," explained Ms Bellizzi. "As the financial services world undergoes dynamic changes, specialisation becomes critical. Our teams within the Investment Centres bring together the expertise expected from a professional organisation and the affability that is the trademark of Bank of Valletta."

Every Centre works with its network of satellite branches. The team at the Investment Centre works closely with their colleagues at the Branch to ensure the clients receive a seamless and efficient service. There is an open two-way communication between the Centre and the Branch via a dedicated IT system, as well as regular meetings, to ensure continuity between the Branch that looks after the customer's every day banking needs, and the Financial Advisor at the Investment Centre that looks after the client's investment requirements.

Speaking about the teams within the Investment Centres,  Ms Bellizzi emphasised that, "Our Financial Advisors receive continuous training to ensure that they have an in-depth knowledge, not only about the vast range of products they advise upon, but also of the macroeconomic environment, which impacts the performance of the clients' portfolios. The information is actively discussed within the team, who liaises regularly with colleagues at Wealth Management and Financial Markets, so as to ensure they are constantly updated with trends in the markets."

Customers who are interested in discussing investment options offered by Bank of Valletta are invited to contact the Bank's Customer Service Centre on 21312020. Alternatively, they may contact the Branch or Investment Centre of their choice. Bank of Valletta's Investment Centres are found at Bir-id-Deheb, Birkirkara, Gzira, Qormi, Valletta and Victoria-Gozo.