Participants will learn the basic investing concepts, the many different variations of traditional investments available and which type of investments are most suitable for their needs. The course will delve into the history of the capital markets, their role in the economy, the different types of markets, and the activities of exchanges. Participants will also learn about the difference between bonds and equities, what they are, their special characteristics and terminology, how they are priced and the risks of owning such investments. Students will also learn about various investment styles such as value, growth, and fund investing. Students will be taught how to and why they should take a critical look at all investing options based on sound risk/reward assumptions.
This seminar will discuss the topic of blockchain technologies as part of decentralized networks for newcomers to the subject. It will address how blockchain technologies fundamentally work, what different functions and modes of operation exist, and what role different types of blockchain assets (tokens) play when it comes to securing data on the one hand or performing financial transactions (in the form of cryptocurrencies) on the other. The seminar will also delve into the area of cryptocurrencies. We will outline the most important cryptocurrencies, which asset class they are to be classified under, how the purchase, sale and trading of cryptocurrencies works and what red flags exist when one deals with these instruments, especially as a beginner. Finally, the opportunities, challenges, perils and risks associated with the topic of blockchain technologies will be discussed.
Immerse yourself in the innovative world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with this engaging 2-hour course, “AI: An Exploration into ChatGPT and Midjourney.” This course aims to provide a robust understanding of the fundamental concepts of AI, with a special focus on Generative AI. Participants will gain valuable insights into the transformative power of Generative AI algorithms such as ChatGPT by OpenAI and Midjourney through the examination of the latest advancements and future trends. These ground-breaking technologies are shaping diverse professional fields, from Human Resources and Marketing to Education. The interactive session is designed to foster a deeper comprehension of how Generative AI can be tailored to address specific professional requirements of our participants. Attendees will depart with an enriched understanding of Generative AI, its real-world applications, its opportunities, risks, and challenges.
Throughout this course, we will explore and navigate through the key aspects of the three dimensions of ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance. The main themes to be discussed encompass the importance of aligning ESG considerations with the overall business strategy, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and adherence to sustainability standards by adopting the ‘Systems Thinking’ approach. Integrating systems thinking into the ESG framework enhances the ability to navigate complexity and develop sustainable solutions. By understanding the intricate web of relationships and interdependencies within systems, ESG professionals can create more effective strategies that address the multifaceted challenges of sustainability.
This course will address the corporate risk management process and will help participants to design, implement and establish a proactive and dynamic risk management model. This will place their organisation in a better position to identify, avoid and mitigate potential risks that exist in every organisation’s internal as well as external environments. Discussions will also focus on how to build a strong corporate risk management culture, and help attendees to learn the basis on which they should prioritise the various risks.
Open-ended funds and Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) have become very popular, cost-effective and efficient ways for investors to build diversified portfolios. Funds are widely used by investors and include a wide variety of assets including bonds equities, real-estate and commodities. This course will focus primarily on the different types of funds available to investors ranging from Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), to open-ended and closed-ended funds. The course will contrast ETFs versus traditional funds, differentiate between active and passive management, explain the prospectus, expense ratios and other key points.
This four-hour course is perfect for individuals seeking to enhance their investing expertise and build a well-rounded understanding of key investment concepts. Participants will gain practical insights into constructing a diversified portfolio tailored to their financial goals. Topics include an introduction to asset classes like stocks, bonds, and funds; the importance of diversification to minimize risk and maximize returns; and strategies for creating balanced portfolios. The course also explores the advantages of ETFs and index funds, diversification across geographies and sectors, and ways to avoid common investment pitfalls. Practical examples and virtual trading exercises will reinforce the concepts learned.
Participants will gain a clear and focused understanding of the key role of directors and corporate secretaries in the management and administration of the company. Today, directors are being constantly evaluated and scrutinised by regulators and shareholders and is therefore essential directors appreciate the responsibility of the office, their duties, rights, obligations and the relationship with other stakeholders within the company. Participants will also be exposed to the liability directors face in the event of a breach or non-compliance with any applicable law. Recent judgments will also be considered. This course will also emphasise on corporate governance principles, best practices and the interpretation of various provisions of the Companies Act.
This course explores the intersection of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors with sustainable finance, focusing on how ESG considerations are shaping the future of investment and financial markets. Participants will learn about the growing importance of sustainable finance in addressing global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and corporate governance. The course will cover key topics such as ESG investment strategies, green bonds, sustainable financing models, and the regulatory landscape. Attendees will gain practical insights into how ESG factors can be integrated into financial decision-making to create long-term value and promote sustainable growth.
This course will delve into the concept of sustainability, its importance and the different ways one can look at unlocking this powerful tool. Sustainability can be looked at from a financial perspective, through appropriate cost management, cash flow management and diversification. The importance of branding and marketing and the environmental, social and governance impact on the brand as well as the sustainability of human capital. Finally, the attendees will learn about how sustainability is achieved in other jurisdictions and lessons learnt from exploring the development of sustainability from a global perspective.
After a general introduction to blockchain technologies, participants will get an overview of the history of crypto trading. The currently important crypto exchanges will be discussed and trading procedures explained. Use cases will be discussed on how cryptocurrencies can be used in practice. However, attention will also be drawn to the dangers and risks from a technological, economic and social perspective.
This session will provide an in-depth look at the continuing disclosure obligations emanating from Chapter 5 of the Capital Markets Rules applicable to Issuers in terms of the said Rules. This session will cover both periodic financial reporting as well as ad hoc disclosure obligations, and should be particularly relevant to equity and debt issuers listed on the main market of the Malta Stock Exchange as well as entities contemplating listing.
The aim of this course is to provide participants with an overview of the fundamental precepts of Maltese company law. Following an analysis of the distinction between the various types of corporate vehicles available in terms of Maltese law, the course will focus on private and public limited liability company, from creation to dissolution. Fundamental doctrines such as separate legal personality, limited liability, and the lifting or piercing of the corporate veil will be analysed. The various types of share capital, the increase, reduction and transfer of share capital, and the doctrine of capital maintenance will also be discussed. This is followed by an analysis of the regulatory and practical implications of the governance of companies, in the context of a global trend towards more regulation and the need of companies to adhere to strict ethical and legal business practices so as not to jeopardize their corporate brand and business in general. Particular focus will be laid on the duties and responsibilities of directors and, specifically in respect of listed companies, the need to instil a governance culture aligned with the Code of Principles of Good Corporate Governance set out in the Listing Rules. In the final part of the course the substantive and procedural aspects of dissolution, winding up and insolvency, as well as the procedures of company rescue and corporate recovery will be examined.
The real estate sector is going through a time of change, having penetrated the larger capital markets and is now much more affected by national and global economic trends. Besides looking into the basic principles and theory of valuation and gaining knowledge on the fundamentals of valuation practice, this course: • will look into developments and trends affecting the nature of and the need for valuation services in Malta in the short to medium term; • aims to stimulate debate amongst valuers and clients/ users of valuations over what action is needed to ensure the provision of quality valuation services that the modern economy requires; and • will enable you to assess the property market and be in a position to recognise which situations require which types of valuation, choose and apply the right methodology and create the valuation report in line with best practice and international standards.
Complying with the AML/CFT framework is an increasingly important regulatory requirement for all subject persons. This course, two-part session will outline the applicable Maltese AML/CFT laws and regulations, provide in-depth coverage of key ML/TF obligations of subject persons and discuss the effective implementation of risk-based policies, procedures, controls and measures. Following this course, participants should have a much better understanding of the key concepts of ML/TF, typologies, trends, safeguards and measures.
This course focuses on the essential elements of creating a robust business risk assessment. Participants will learn how to identify, evaluate, and manage various types of risks that could impact their organisation. The course covers key concepts such as risk identification techniques, assessing risk exposure, and developing effective mitigation strategies. Attendees will also explore best practices for integrating risk management into business operations and decision-making processes, enabling them to build a strong foundation for managing business risks and ensuring long-term success.
This course aims at providing attendees with the necessary tools and techniques aimed at identifying money laundering machinations and in combating the funding of terrorism. The course has been developed in an engaging and comprehensive format in order to provide attendees with the appropriate training to meet the regulatory requirements of subject persons whilst providing a practitioner’s insight. The course shall focus both on the applicable legislative framework as well as on practical case studies.
This course focuses on the pivotal role, duties and obligations of the company secretary. The company secretary is an important link between the board of directors and the management arm of the company. There is also a duty to ensure good corporate governance. It is important that company secretaries are familiar with their obligations to the board, shareholders and management. The lecturer will also outline best practice and real-life case studies.
Raising capital is a difficult but essential part of running Capital markets - practical issues any business. Even the most creative ideas or business plans can only get you so far. It is therefore inevitable that businesses will need funding in order to grow. Although one of the biggest challenges businesses face is raising finance, various options exist and businesses can raise capital through capital markets, bank finance, private placements or business angels amongst others. The training session will give an overview of all sources of finance, focusing more on the capital markets available in Malta, and the practical issues encountered when raising finance and how business go around them.