Wed Sep 18 04:47:00 UTC 2024: ## Drug Addiction Fuels Crime, HSBC’s History Offers Lessons: Local Perspective
A stark reality facing Maltese society is the link between drug addiction and crime, with many offenses driven by the desperate need for funds to purchase illicit substances. While courts often focus on rehabilitation for addicted offenders, the real problem lies with the importers and distributors of these drugs. These individuals, seemingly oblivious to the suffering they cause, deserve the harshest punishment for their actions.
Meanwhile, the future of HSBC in Malta remains a hot topic. However, examining the bank’s history provides valuable insight. Since its founding in 1865, HSBC has pursued a strategy of acquiring and divesting from smaller banks in stable economies with strong profitability and governance. This pattern was evident in Malta, where HSBC acquired Mid-Med Bank.
While the price of the acquisition is open to interpretation, the bank’s history demonstrates a willingness to enter and exit markets based on specific criteria. This highlights the need for caution when dealing with entities offering attractive opportunities, as their presence might not be permanent.
First Piper 