Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1066826
17 COMMERCIAL maltatoday | SUNDAY • 30 DECEMBER 2018 PKF participates in "Unleashing Innovation in Blockchain" conference in Amsterdam PKF executives recently attended a two- day blockchain conference held in De Rode Hoed in Amsterdam. This well attended conference was addressed by global industry specialists such as ING Bank, Tui Group, Pfizer, Ing Bank, Bosch Group, ABN Amro Bank and Dutch Blockchain Coalition. The event was organised by Global Executive Events, a leading provider of high quality corporate events which is headquartered in the Netherlands, with FinanceMalta acting as facilitators for the event. The agenda was chaired by Alexander Wied , Partner Blockchain Evangelist working for Project Partners Germany. His specialisation as a consultant in- cludes identification of high-value use cases, shaping strategies and delivery of business solutions based on Ethereum. Alexander introduced the speakers and prompted the audience on the fast chang- ing world of Blockchain and its powerful force of disruption and thirst for innova- tion. He also spoke about the use of tech- nologies involving blockchain and how it has created a number of challenges and opportunities both for European coun- tries and beyond. The list of topics discussed on the two day event covered many aspects such as use of smart contracts, compliance changes, AML, legal implications assur- ing the delivery of value, quality stand- ards, trust policy and security. The speak- er from the giant pharmaceutical firm Pfizer discussed innovation in healthcare especially in relation to patient records and integration of medical records with inventory control. Another speaker discussed the scalabil- ity for public smart contract chains and the exciting features of Ethereum. Speak- ers from the Dutch banks discussed the regulatory costs when management de- cides to onboard blockchain technologies and how best to generate interest among banking staff to embrace the new digital infrastructure. Dr Marilyn Formosa from PKF joined a panel about Malta. The panel discussed the recent promulgation of three laws covering all aspects of virtual financial as- sets and innovative technology arrange- ments. The subject also touched on the licensing requirements for VFA agents and issuers and the obligations for pre- audit of distributed and decentralised software by licensed system auditors. Formosa touched on the need for more training of staff to increase the cohort of blockchain professionals. Malta is defini- tively looking forward to welcome new- comers specialising in blockchain able to follow the footsteps of giants such as Binance which recently showered praise on the island's friendly legislation. 28 students were recently awarded the University's Certificate of Proofreading in Maltese and the Proofreading Warrant from the National Council for the Maltese Language, after completing the one-year course in Proofreading Maltese. In all, 460 proofreaders have successfully completed this part-time course since it started in 2006. The next course (MQF 5) will start in February 2019 at the University of Malta in Msida, and also at the Gozo Campus in Xewkija if there is sufficient number of eligible applicants. Online applications are being received until January 11 from htt- ps://www.um.edu.mt/courses/search?text=proof+reading. Further information can be obtained from www.um.edu.mt/arts/malti/av- vizi/cqp or via e-mail: provi-malti.arts@um.edu.mt 28 newly qualified proofreaders of Maltese COFFEE aficionados can now take advantage of the all-new, convenient and accessible Nescafé Dolce Gusto Service Point, dedicated to Malta's fa- vourite portioned coffee. Everything Nescafé Dolce Gus- to is available in one place at the Service Point, providing custom- ers with a holistic experience and the exceptional quality of service that is at the heart of the brand. At the Service Point, in-house experts and Krups technicians (A&A Mizzi) offer comprehen- sive support, such as advice re- garding optimum machine care, or information about the fully- stocked product range, warran- ties or loyalty scheme, for exam- ple. The Service Point is also fully equipped to service any Nescafé Dolce Gusto machines in need of extra care and attention. Today, a vast number of homes in Malta have a Nescafé Dolce Gusto machine – and with good reason. Specialising in the mod- ern art of coffee, the Nescafé Dolce Gusto capsules and ma- chines are designed to create the ultimate in indulgent and deli- cious drinks, from bold espressos to frothy latte macchiatos all with exceptional coffee origins. Using the latest in innovative technology, clever design, and only the finest coffee beans, Nes- café Dolce Gusto ensures that each customer can experience their favourite coffee house in the comfort of their own home. Based at the Nestlé Consumer Centre on Pantar Road, Lija, the new Nescafé Dolce Gusto Sales and Service Point is open from Monday to Thursday from 8am until 4.30pm, and on Friday from 8am until 3pm. Telephone num- ber 21436196. All-new Nescafé Dolce Gusto service point opens HSBC Malta CEO (fourth right) and other bank officials at the Christmas Party in Gozo. HSBC Bank Malta staged its annual Christmas parties in Malta and Gozo for customers and shared its appreciation for their continued business.