‘In 2024, we will have to navigate in the uncertainty of a world riven by political ideologies and wars’

AX Group CEO Michael Warrington has stated that in 2024, businesses will need to power ahead through different challenges posed by the uncertainty that characterises the world at this present time.

Over the past 12 months, the macroeconomic environment has been plagued by international conflicts. From the surging war in Ukraine to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that has escalated in recent months, the outlook for 2024 does not seem that positive.

Considering that these challenges have come right after the troubling period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflicts have added further pressure on local businesses when it comes to international trade, especially since Malta is so reliant on imports.

In the latest instalment of MaltaCEOs.mt’s end-of-year series, Mr Warrington expressed that he does not foresee these challenges ending anytime soon, noting that the environment will remain turbulent in the coming months.

Mr Warrington has been at the helm of AX Group since 2016, having originally joined more than two decades ago. While the family business has grown massively since then, he notes that 2023 represented a somewhat complete return to normality following the challenges of the pandemic.

What 3 words would you use to sum up your 2023?

Return to normal.

What personal accomplishment from the past year are you most proud of?

Having put into place important strategic objectives and changes.

What are you most grateful for this year?

Good health and happiness.

How are you going to spend the New Year?

I’ll be spending it with friends.

What are the biggest opportunities and challenges you believe 2024 will bring?

We will experience very turbulent times again and will have to navigate in the uncertainty of a world riven by international political ideologies and wars.

Is there a particular skill you’d like to develop in the new year?

Learning a new language.

Is there something you’d like to change about your daily routine?

I’d like to exercise more regularly.

Where do you see yourself in a year’s time?

Nowhere different from where I am now.