Where ideas meet momentum
Trend Talks Season 3
Welcome to Trend Talks, PwC Malta’s podcast series that puts the spotlight on the trends shaping today’s business landscape. In each episode, we unpack the forces driving change across finance, regulation, technology, and strategy—so you can stay sharp, informed and ready for what’s next. Hosted by professionals from across our firm and joined by industry voices and subject matter experts, Trend Talks is designed to offer more than just commentary. It’s where insight becomes action.
Season 3: What’s shaping business now
Back for a third season, in 2025 Trend Talks is diving into the topics that are redefining how businesses think and operate. This season brings clarity to conversations around, VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA), Private Equity and Generative AI and digital tech for business.
S3.E5 – Valuation frameworks, risks, and deal mechanics in M&A
In the fifth episode of our Trend Talks, hosted by Mark Tabone and featuring insights from Eric Mackay and Ian Abela in our Advisory Deals team, we delve into how valuation shapes successful M&A. We discuss key methods: income (DCF), market comparables, and net asset value. We also explore how to adjust projections for risk and the importance of checking against past earnings and sector multiples. We highlight differences between asset-heavy FMCG/Distribution and asset-light tech/IP sectors, and how valuations transition through due diligence into SPA mechanics. When buyer and seller perspectives differ, we present practical solutions like earn-outs and vendor financing to close the gap.
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S3.E4 – Maximising support for business investment through incentives
In the fourth episode of PwC’s Trend Talks, moderated by Maria Demanuele and featuring Svetlik Grima and Shaun Vella Bonello from our incentives team, we unpack how organisations can navigate and make the most of incentive schemes across Malta and the EU. From tax credits, cash grants and training subsidies to the nuances of GBER versus de minimis, the conversation clarifies eligibility, aid intensities, assisted regions and scheme caps. It offers practical guidance on mixing schemes without double funding, managing start-of-works rules and documentation, and planning for cash flow throughout the application and reimbursement process, all while keeping an eye on key deadlines and upcoming regulatory revisions that may impact aid levels.
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S3.E3 - Unveiling new opportunities in private equity
In the third episode of PwC's Trend Talks, we delve into the dynamic world of private equity. Moderated by Nadia Vella, and featuring Chris Mifsud Bonnici and Mark Tabone, this episode explores private equity's transformative potential. From providing fresh capital to businesses to offering an alternative financing route amidst increasing regulation, private equity plays a vital role in shaping modern financial landscapes. Join us as we uncover the intriguing trends and emerging opportunities within this pivotal sector, focusing on innovation, growth potential, and the evolving market dynamics both locally and globally.
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S3.E2 - Cybersecurity and AI: From risk to resilience
The second episode of PwC’s Trend Talks, moderated by Shreeram Kumble and featuring Kirsten Cremona and Jake Azzopardi explores the intersection of two powerful forces: cyber and AI. Together, they challenge the perception of cybersecurity as a cost centre and AI as merely a productivity tool. From deepfake threats and disinformation campaigns to the rise of agentic AI and virtual workforces, the discussion highlights how organisations can strike the right balance between innovation and protection. At its core, the conversation returns to a simple truth - transformation begins with people, trust and asking the right questions.
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S3.E1 - Navigating ViDA A new era for VAT compliance
In the first episode of PwC's Trend Talks, moderated by Mark Abela, and featuring Anna Maria Herrera and Mirko Gulic from our VAT team, we dive into one of the most recent reforms in EU tax policy: VAT in the Digital Age (ViDA). Together, they unpack what ViDA really means for businesses, beyond just digitisation. From simplified VAT registration to new platform obligations and a complete rethink of how VAT is reported and invoiced, the changes are wide-reaching and significant.
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Catch up on past seasons
Missed an earlier episode? Seasons 1 and 2 of Trend Talks featured expert conversations on everything from ESG reporting and regulatory shifts to digital transformation, sustainability, and beyond.
Whether you’re revisiting a topic or discovering it for the first time, every episode offers practical insight to help you make sense of change and move forward with confidence.
Season 1
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Season 2
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