Business

Is the Maldives walking in the footsteps of Greece, towards bankruptcy?

Published

2 years ago

25/11/2021

In 2015 the European Union was taken by storm over news that one of its member nations had defaulted on a €1.6 billion payment to the International Monetary Foundation. This was the first time a member of the European Union had defaulted and faced bankruptcy. The nation in question was the home of the once mighty civilization, Greece.

The fall of the Greek economy was the culmination of inflation, poor fiscal management and fraud. Prior to joining the European Union, Greek pursued an expansionary fiscal policy including a universal healthcare system which proved itself to be a major burden for the government. While the government’s expenditure was significantly raised in the 1980’s its revenue remained much same.

A contributing factor to this was the fact that it was a norm in Greece to underreport income. This led to a serious loss in state revenue as the state was not receiving the annually projected income from taxes. This was further exacerbated due to massive tax cuts for the wealthy. This ultimately led to a rising inflation and a massive debt on the state as it desperately attempted to manage the economy.

For Greece, the European Union and its European Monetary Union (EMU) was the means to solve the government debt and inflation problem. However, joining the European Union also meant that Greece had to conform to the strict regulations by the European Union, outlined in the 1992 Maastrihct Treaty. Under this treaty member countries of the European Union would have to limit the Government deficit to 3% of the GDP and its debt to 60% of its GDP.

After spending close to a decade trying to mitigate its debts, Greece was finally granted a conditional acceptance into the European Monetary Union in 2001.

However, the truth was that Greece never managed to lower its government’s deficit and the state debt to the thresholds outlined in the Maastricht Treaty.

While the initial period following its entrance into the Euro zone was marked with a slight economic recovery, the underlying issues of weak fiscal management still persisted. The situation as further worsened by the lack of revenue for the state. Systemic tax-evasion was ingrained in the society as both the high income and low income underreported their spending leading to a drastically low social spending expenditure. In 2000, the total social spending expenditure in Greece was marked as 19.3% of the GDP where as in the same period it was marked as 26.2% in Germany.

Entry into Euro zone also allowed the Greek government to borrow massive loans cheaply form fellow member states and organizations. While the loans were meant to finance the government operations, it also proved to be an additional burden on the government as Greek’s income was still at the same levels as to when it entered the Euro zone.

The 2007 financial crisis unveiled the critical condition of the Greek economy. The recession forced the Greek government to finally address the massive deficit and debt as its tax revenues dried up. In 2010 U.S. financial regulators graded Greek bonds as “junk” forcing the Greek government to seek bailout through the International monetary Foundation and other credit agencies. The bailout was given under strict reformation conditions including higher tax revenues and budget cuts.

This led to a massive recession in Greece as unemployment reached of 25% just 2 years after the U.S. regulators deemed Greek bonds as “junk”.

The unemployment further contributed to a decrease in tax revenues, which finally cascaded into the state losing a significant chunk of its revenue. As the economy crumbled, the social conditions in Greek also worsened where crime, homelessness and drug abuse rose to unprecedented levels.

The Maldives is undeniably walking in the footsteps of Greece towards an inevitable state default and bankruptcy. The current administrations staunch refusal to adhere to the advice of the World Bank and other credit rating agency has led to a situation where the country is now standing on the threshold of bankruptcy.

The MVR 36.925 billion budget was passed by the Parliament without summoning the heads of the financial institutions in the Maldives nor without proper analysis of the budget. For financial analysts, implementing a budget with 34% of its revenue unsecured is alarming. The unprecedented MVR 9.760 billion deficit budget is reminiscent of the massive deficit-ridden budgets adopted by the Greek government prior to its downfall.

A more serious concern lies with the current administration’s reckless policy of borrowing from the central bank. Since 2020 the Government of Maldives has against the advice of IMF and World Bank, chosen to overdraft from the PBA at the Central Bank. This was done after freezing subsection (a), (d) and (e) of the Section 32 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

On 17^th November 2021 the Parliament chose to suspend the sections of the Fiscal Responsibility Act which prevents indiscriminate printing of money for a third time since 2020. While initially promised to repay in 1 years’ time, the Government’s debt to the Central bank in the form of overdrafts has now racked up in excess of MVR 6.5 billion.

While the Government continues to indiscriminately borrow form both the central bank and foreign sources, the state debt is set to increase by an unpreceded MVR 11 billion this year, rising the total state debt to MVR 100 billion or the equivalent of 105% of the national GDP. The current administrations poor fiscal management is evident in the fact that from the MVR 100 billion debt, over MVR 50 billion was incurred over just the past 3 years.

While many of the international credit rating agencies have repeatedly lowered its rating on the Maldives, due to the government’s veil of secrecy surrounding its financial standings, it is unclear whether the Government is on the verge of bankruptcy or it is already bankrupt. One undeniable fact that remains is that the Government of Maldives is walking in the footsteps of Greece, towards a massive default and bankruptcy.

Business

STO opens showroom in Hulhumale’

Published

6 days ago

24/04/2024

State Trading Organization (STO) has opened a showroom specialized for construction in Hulhumale’.

The showroom was inaugurated by Construction Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib during a special ceremony held on Tuesday night.

Speaking at the ceremony, STO’s Managing Director Shimad Ibrahim stressed the role of the company’s former managements and board members in carrying forward the company and therefore extended them gratitude.

Situated at the same location as STO’s Hulhumale’ shop – next to STO’s Smart Store near Hulhuamle’ Hospital – the construction solutions showroom was opened following renovations up to modern standards.

STO reports that all construction-related products sold by the company will be available at the showroom including some of the most renowned brands sold by the company; Makita tools, Nippon paint and concrete from prominent mix designing brands among others.

The state-owned company is prominent in the local construction industry as STO’s constructions solutions is the largest importer and seller of construction-related products in the Maldives.

STO noted that customers can now place orders for construction-related products including Makita tools and Nippon paint via the Hulhumale’ showroom which would eliminate the need to travel to Male’ to make the purchases. Arrangements have been made in the showroom to prepare the colors of Nippon paint ordered by the customers on demand.

Henceforth, they attributed the opening of the new showroom as something which would bring easements to the lives of Hulhumale’ residents and construction industry partners operating in the suburb.

Source(s): sun.mv

Business

Economy thrives, projects speed ahead despite challenges

Published

2 weeks ago

18/04/2024

Before President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office, the economic condition of the Maldives was significantly deteriorating. Experts attribute the primary reason for the depreciation of the Maldivian currency to the excessive printing of money by the previous administration.

According to statistics from the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), more than USD 518.04 million was printed over the last three consecutive years, marking a historic high compared to USD 388.53 million printed over 40 years.

Additionally, upon assuming office, President Muizzu inherited a heavy debt burden. The total debt amounted to over USD 7.71 billion, with a significant portion owed to companies for upcoming parliamentary elections and previously initiated projects, totaling USD 584.88 million.

Despite these challenges, President Muizzu has been proactive in rejuvenating the Maldives’ economic status. Within three months of his tenure, USD 35 million has been deposited into the sovereign development fund. The President estimates that more than USD 100 million will be deposited into the fund by the end of the year.

discontinuation of printing money has been regarded as a pivotal step towards economic progression for the Maldives

President Muizzu’s commitment to revitalizing the Maldivian economy without resorting to the printing of money is indeed a significant pledge. By discontinuing the practice of printing money, the government aims to address economic challenges while ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.

The decision to immediately halt the printing of money upon assuming office underscores President Muizzu’s determination to prioritize sound monetary policy. This move reflects an acknowledgment of the risks associated with excessive money printing, including inflation and currency devaluation, and signals a commitment to addressing these challenges through prudent financial management.

Furthermore, President Muizzu’s plans to boost the country’s prosperity and income by reducing reliance on loans and settling debts owed to both foreign and domestic entities demonstrate a holistic approach to economic revitalization.

attracting a vast pool of investors

The efforts of the present administration to attract a wide range of investors reflect a strategic approach to addressing the significant development needs of the Maldives. By engaging in investment forums both domestically and abroad, the government has been successful in showcasing the diverse investment opportunities available in the country.

The decision to host investment forums in countries like China and the UAE demonstrates a proactive approach to international investment promotion. These forums serve as platforms for highlighting the potential for investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, tourism, and hospitality. By creating awareness about these opportunities, the government aims to attract investors who are interested in contributing to the development of critical projects, including the establishment of bridges, domestic airports, and resorts.

Over 500 projects underway

The continuation of 527 projects, including those that faced interruptions due to non-payment to companies during the government transition, underscores the commitment of President Muizzu’s administration to ensure continuity and progress in ongoing initiatives. Despite the challenges encountered, efforts have been made to address issues such as delayed payments and optimize project expenses to keep important projects on track.

It’s notable that the current year’s budget, initially approved by the prior administration, may not have fully aligned with President Muizzu’s priorities and rules for project implementation. This misalignment may have resulted in some projects not receiving adequate budget allocations or not being included in the budget at all. However, the administration has taken steps to optimize expenses and prioritize projects that align with President Muizzu’s vision for development

Initiatives to enhance economic growth and foster sustainable growth

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recognized President Muizzu’s initiatives as some of the strongest implementations seen among world leaders, emphasizing their potential for substantial progression. The IMF applauded the government’s decision not to overdraw the government’s account and expressed its readiness to provide any assistance needed. This endorsement from the IMF underscores the effectiveness of President Muizzu’s economic policies and strategies.

Additionally, the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industries has voiced support for the government’s initiatives, recognizing them as favorable for the Maldivian future as a growing economy. Despite challenges such as a shortage of dollars for small businesses, the Chamber remains optimistic that the government’s decisive actions will lead to economic growth and stability in the value of the dollar.

The government has projected a 5.5 percent economic growth rate for this year, indicating confidence in the trajectory of the economy under President Muizzu’s leadership. Furthermore, President Muizzu revealed a significant reduction in the country’s primary debt balance, from USD 103.61 billion last year to USD 8.68 million in the current year. This reduction in debt, achieved within just four months, demonstrates the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and its ability to effectively manage the country’s finances.

Overall, these developments indicate that the government’s economic rejuvenation efforts have been successful, earning the confidence of global financial institutions in the Maldives’ future economic prospects.

Source(s): PsmNews

Business

Council to issue 14 plots in Hanimaadhoo for tourism development

Published

2 weeks ago

15/04/2024

Haa Dhaalu atoll Hanimaadhoo island council has announced a 50-year lease on 14 plots from the island for tourism development purposes.

In the announcement put on gazette by the council, it has opened bid opportunity for interested bidders to lease the plots from Hanimaadhoo’s tourism zone.

The council has announced lease of 5,000 square feet plots for a 50-year lease period, for which interested proponents are required to register for the bids before 13:00hrs on April 30th, 2024.

For proponents wishing to mail the bid registration form, they can mail it to info@hanimaadhoo.gov.mv.

Proponents must furnish a bid registration, non-refundable, fee of MVR 1,000 for the 5,000 square feet plots. If proponents wish to acquire more than one plot, then they must pay MVR 1,000 per plot.

If the council annuls the announcement, it said the registration fees will be refunded to the proponents, and added the proponents will receive bid books upon registration.

Bid acceptance and opening are scheduled for April 30th, 2024 as well.

While the Hanimaadhoo International Airport is under an expansion project, the island has been putting efforts to increase its local tourism activities as well.

During his last month visit to Hanimaadhoo, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said the airport’s expansion will contribute towards increased tourism activity in the island.

He also said sustainable development cannot be achieved without individual development of key regions which include Hanimaadhoo as well.

Source(s): sun.mv