As 2025 draws to a close, Money Talk by Bank of Valletta, in collaboration with Times of Malta, continues to guide viewers through the essentials of smarter money management. Following three insightful episodes that explored budgeting, investing, and everyday financial decision-making, the latest instalment turns the spotlight onto one of the most important questions in personal finance: Is financial planning truly accessible to everyone?
Is financial planning accessible?
In this episode, entitled ‘Accessibility of Financial Planning Services’, James Cummings sits down with Roberta Bellizzi, Head of BOV’s Investment Centres, for a conversation that demystifies a process many still find intimidating. Bellizzi’s message is clear. Financial planning is no longer a service reserved for a select few. Thanks to technology, improved financial literacy initiatives, and the Bank’s commitment to accessible advisory support, professional guidance has never been more within reach. “At BOV, we offer free consultations across our branches and Investment Centres in Malta and Gozo,” Roberta explains, noting that the Bank’s advisors are both qualified and readily available.
Bellizzi goes on to unpack core concepts such as regular savings versus compound interest, illustrated through practical examples that show how even modest, long-term investments can significantly change one’s financial future. She also highlights common pitfalls, like failing to budget, overlooking emergency funds, delaying retirement planning, ignoring debt, and underestimating the value of diversification. Her message is simple but powerful: the earlier you start, the better prepared you’ll be.
The episode closes with Roberta’s practical advice, “Start small, but start now. Ask for help. And be smart with your money every step of the way.”
With this latest Money Talk episode, BOV reinforces its mission to make financial knowledge, and financial confidence, accessible to everyone.