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WE often rely on the advice of those we trust — whether it's a restaurant, a travel destina- tion, or even a bank. A person- al recommendation carries real weight because it comes from genuine experience. At FCM Bank, we're proud to see that more and more new clients are joining us based on referrals from our existing customers — often bringing even higher deposits with them. To show our appreciation, we've decided to reward your trust with even greater rewards through an enhanced Refer- ral Programme launching next week. If you are already one of our valued clients, now is the per- fect time to spread the word — and earn more and if you are not yet part of the FCM Bank family, there is nothing easier than to come in and open your account today. There is no limit to how many people you can refer. You can refer as many friends, family members, or colleagues as you like. Each confirmed deposit means another reward for you and your friend. It's a win-win for both sides. When your referred person opens an account and makes a confirmed deposit, both of you receive a voucher — the amount depends on how much is deposited. Joining the programme couldn't be easier. Visit our website at https://www.fcm- b a n k . c o m . m t / r e c o m m e n d a - tions/. Terms & Conditions apply. FCM Bank Ltd is regulated by the MFSA and licensed to carry out the business of banking in terms of the Banking Act (Cap. 371 of the Laws of Malta). 7 maltatoday | SUNDAY • 16 NOVEMBER 2025 COMMERCIAL Alkagesta expands into metals trading through strategic partnership with Navex AS global energy and commod- ity houses diversify into metals to meet the growing needs of industrialization, electrification, and infrastructure development, Alkagesta is reinforcing its po- sition in the supply chain of es- sential industrial materials. Rec- ognizing metals as a natural and strategic extension of its trading portfolio, Alkagesta is pleased to announce the creation of Al- kanavex, a joint venture with Navex SAS ("Navex"), a well-es- tablished steel trading company headquartered in France. The establishment of Al- kanavex, based in Malta, marks Alkagesta's formal entry into the metals trading space, with an in- itial focus on steel—a sector cen- tral to global construction and manufacturing growth. As the next horizon of expansion, this development aligns with Alkag- esta's long-term strategy to go beyond its traditional petroleum products and fertilizer trading activities and to build a robust, integrated metals trading plat- form, supported by prudent risk management and strict compli- ance and corporate governance practices of Alkagesta. Over the past two years, Alk- agesta and Navex have worked closely to align their operations, governance, and commercial models. With Alkagesta holding a majority stake, the agreement to establish Alkanavex is now finalized, while the legal formal- ization and operational integra- tion process are under way. Founded by industry veterans with over 25 years of individual experience, Navex brings a rig- orous compliance culture, best- in-class operational procedures, and a proven trading network. Jean-Pierre Artigala, Chief Ex- ecutive Officer of Navex, has over five decades of experience in the steel industry, having held senior roles in leading Eu- ropean and international steel groups, including Usinor/Sacilor (now ArcelorMittal), Fercomet- al, and Descours & Cabaud. His career has encompassed steel manufacturing, global sourcing, and export trading across USA, Europe, Brazil, Africa, China, and the Middle East, providing Navex with unparalleled market knowledge and strategic depth. The company sources primarily from China, the world's larg- est steel exporter, and supplies long-standing customers across West and East Africa—regions undergoing rapid economic and infrastructure expansion. Pierre Gay, Member of the Board of Alkagesta, said: "This partnership is built on mutual respect and strategic alignment. Alkanavex is more than a combination of two teams — it represents a shared vision for building a high-perform- ing, well-governed, and globally competitive steel trading plat- form." Jean-Pierre Artigala, CEO of Navex, commented: "This partnership gives Navex access to the financial strength, governance framework, and global footprint of Alkagesta while preserving our operation- al heritage. We are excited to deepen our presence in Africa and to explore sourcing syner- gies and new product corridors with Alkagesta." Orkhan Rustamov, CEO of Alkagesta, added: "We've long believed that steel and metals trading is a natural next step for Alkagesta. With the right partners, the right govern- ance, and a prudent commercial model, we see this as a powerful growth engine. Navex stood out for its professionalism, integrity, and long-term track record." About Alkagesta Alkagesta is a global commod- ity trading house specializing in petroleum products, fertiliz- ers, and biofuels. Established in Malta in 2018, the company operates as a multinational en- terprise with 17 offices and rep- resentations worldwide. Alkag- esta maintains partnerships with 28 international banks and con- ducts trading activities across 42 countries, facilitating over 7 million metric tons of commod- ity flows annually. Its extensive logistics network includes access to more than 700,000 cubic me- ters of storage capacity across Europe and Asia, supporting efficient and resilient global sup- ply chains. In addition to its core activities, Alkagesta selectively engages in spot trading of petrochemicals, agricultural commodities, and metals. The company offers fully integrated trading capabilities— from sourcing and storage to de- livery—underpinned by robust risk management, compliance, and governance frameworks. Alkagesta was founded in 2018 by its management team and remains privately held and governed by senior leadership. Senior leadership, including the founding team, already holds a significant equity stake in the company, which continues to grow in alignment with per- formance and strategic con- tribution. Today, the Group employs over 150 professionals and is built on tested systems, experienced governance, and a culture of continuous develop- ment. This evolving ownership structure reflects Alkagesta' s founding principles—ensuring long-term alignment, operation- al discipline, and institutional resilience. Visit: www.alkagesta.com FCM BANK increases rewards for clients who refer new depositors