The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) is pleased to present its report on the activities and operations undertaken during the year 2017. The year was a tumultuous one with significant changes in the political landscape in a number of countries. However, most importantly the world economy enjoyed widespread growth which according to the International Monetary Fund was expected to run into 2018. The IMF estimates that the world economy will expand by 3.6% in 2017 and that it is likely to grow by 3.8% in 2018. The most significant expansion was seen in the Eurozone which is now considered to be expanding strongly as confidence has improved. While growth in the Eurozone and in all Member States averaged around 2.0%, growth in Malta will average around 6.0% in 2017. This strong growth is expected to continue in 2018. The Maltese economy continues to perform well with low unemployment and inflation. Indeed all the rating agencies have given the country strong and positive ratings.