Financial literacy takes centre stage at youth economics forum

Malcolm Naudi

Housing affordability, saving habits and economic change dominate discussion

Young people’s financial prospects, economic opportunities and the importance of financial literacy were at the heart of a meeting organised by Żgħażagħ għall-Bidla in Mosta on 28 July 2026. The event featured Central Bank of Malta Chief Economist Dr Aaron George Grech and accountant and local councillor Frederick Aquilina, who addressed questions ranging from housing affordability to long-term economic trends.

The discussion opened with audience questions on home ownership, financial education and expectations about living independently. The strong engagement that followed highlighted widespread concerns about personal finance and future economic security among younger generations.

Building financial security through education and discipline

A recurring theme was the importance of financial literacy. Speakers stressed the value of budgeting, saving and developing skills that could adapt to changing labour market demands. Education was described as an ongoing process, with continuous learning increasingly necessary across professions.

Participants discussed practical money management strategies, including tracking expenditure, building savings habits early and understanding the long-term benefits of compound interest. The risks associated with concentrating investments in a single product were also highlighted, with diversification presented as a way to reduce financial exposure.

Housing affordability emerged as a major concern. Rising property prices and inflation were cited as factors making it more difficult for younger people to purchase homes, increasing the need for careful budgeting and financial planning. Speakers emphasised that loans should be approached cautiously and primarily used for assets that could retain or increase their value over time.

Malta’s economic model and future opportunities

The meeting also examined Malta’s economic structure and future development. Discussions focused on the country’s reliance on exports, tourism and services, while also considering opportunities in emerging sectors. Participants raised questions about renewable energy, demographic change and the economy’s ability to adapt to global challenges.

Dr Grech explained that Malta’s growth had depended on its ability to adapt and develop new economic sectors as circumstances evolved. However, he also noted challenges associated with the country’s small size, including workforce constraints and reliance on foreign labour.

The event concluded with a wider reflection on balancing personal financial success with collaboration and collective wellbeing, reinforcing the meeting’s focus on informed decision-making and responsible financial management.

Group photo of attendees at the 28 July 2026 meeting of Żgħażagħ għall-Bidla. Frederick Aquilina and Dr Aaron George Grech are standing third and fourth from left.

About Żgħażagħ għall-Bidla

Żgħażagħ għall-Bidla is a relatively new independent youth organisation in Malta that strives for “change, encounter and possibility.” It is youth led and focuses on encouraging young people to discuss social, economic, civic and political issues affecting Malta.

The group organises:

  • discussion forums and meetings for young people;
  • talks with experts and public figures;
  • civic education activities;
  • debates on economics, finance, governance and quality of life issues; and
  • opportunities for young people to have their voices heard in public discourse.

Recent activities

This year the organisation has held several meetings in collaboration with Mosta Local Council, including sessions on:

  • civic entities and how they work;
  • economics and finance;
  • quality of life in Malta; and
  • youth participation in society.

Leadership and origins

The group was founded by Luke Fenech, who has published the organisation’s inauguration speech online. In that material, Żgħażagħ għall-Bidla is described as an independent youth movement seeking constructive change and greater youth engagement.

Online presence

The organisation maintains:

  • a TikTok account under @zghazagh_ghall.bidla;
  • video content on YouTube; and
  • an online platform where it publishes reports from its meetings and activities.