As we approach Trident Trust Malta’s 15-year anniversary in 2026, Managing Director Albert Cilia reflects on a journey marked by change and adaptation. “Over the past 15 years, we have seen the financial services industry shift in ways that few could have predicted. Regulation has tightened, technology has moved at lightning speed, and clients are more sophisticated than ever.” 

He adds: “These changes have shaped Malta’s own evolution. The financial services sector today is almost unrecognisable compared to 15 years ago. The journey has not been easy, and the industry has had to learn some hard lessons. But through that process, practitioners have developed resilience and a clearer understanding of where Malta’s strengths lie.” 

Lessons learnt and strategic strategy 

“This period has taught us that existing ecosystems must align with the new ones we aim to build,” Mr Cilia explains. “We’ve also recognised that trying to be a solution for everyone is neither realistic nor sustainable.” 

He points to a recurring theme: “The regulatory burden, particularly in Europe, has been a constant challenge. At times, it has slowed innovation and business growth. The theme of ‘over-regulation’ has dominated conversations for years. Are we turning a corner? We hope so. Some players have exited the industry altogether because of it.” 

Technology, he stresses, is no longer optional: “In recent years, the technology piece has become critical. Today, more than ever, firms must embrace innovation to stay current.” 

What hasn’t changed 

“What has not changed and is arguably more important than ever in today’s uncertain macroeconomic climate, is the client’s demand for value,” he says. “Clients want partners who deliver reliability and cost-effectiveness. Decisions can make or break a business, and that expectation is front and centre.” 

A key strength for Trident Trust, according to Mr Cilia, is its independent ownership. “Trident Trust continues to play to its strengths, with one of the most important being its independence and ownership structure. In today’s market, the number of international competitors not owned by private equity is vanishingly small, and we are proud to be among them.” 

He elaborates: “This independence is more than a structural feature; it’s a mindset that permeates everything we do. Our long-term partnership approach is not just a phrase. It is a philosophy. Financial independence also means that we prioritise sustainable growth and client interests over short-term gains. That protects our people, our regulatory standing, and ultimately, the service we deliver to clients.” 

He adds a forward-looking note: “As a lean organisation with 47 years of history, we continue to seek new opportunities while remaining in a constant state of investment, whether in people, technology, or infrastructure 

Malta’s next chapter 

Looking ahead, Mr Cilia sees a pivotal decade for Malta. “Historically, the jurisdiction has often prioritised short-term wins over long-term strategy, but this mindset is shifting. There’s a growing sense that a corner has been turned. The next 5 to 10 years will be critical, not just for the financial services industry, but for Malta’s broader strategic vision, including initiatives like Envision 2050.” 

For Trident Trust Malta, adaptation has been key. “Over the past 15 years, we’ve had to evolve in response to the shifting priorities of the industry, the jurisdiction, and our wider global perspective as a Group. Our greatest strength has been our ability to adapt, meeting new challenges while maintaining and growing relationships with long-standing clients, and welcoming new ones with increasingly complex needs.” 

He notes the changing client profile: “The clients we serve today are far more sophisticated than those of 15 years ago. It’s a point of pride that the market continues to view us as a trusted partner for critical transactions.” 

“These 15 years of experience and challenge have laid a solid foundation, one that gives us every reason to look to the future with confidence,” Mr Cilia concludes. “As we approach our 15-year milestone in 2026, that confidence is stronger than ever.”