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Day: 3 December 2024

Monaco Inspire debuts as a premier event for local entrepreneurs and innovators

by: Niki Borisova
03/12/2024

The inaugural edition of Monaco Inspire, a new business event organised by the Jeune Chambre Économique de Monaco (JCI Monaco), brought together business leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs in a setting designed to help startups transform their ideas into actionable plans. Three keynote speakers from the world of business – Ledger co-founder Éric Larchevêque, Monte Carlo Capital founder Ian Sosso, and Catherine Barba, an expert in e-commerce and digital innovation – were invited to guide Monaco’s next generation of businesspeople through topics such as scaling companies, the importance of resilience and self-belief, and investment strategies.

On 30th November, Monaco Life attended the first edition of Monaco Inspire, an event dedicated to entrepreneurship and innovation in the Principality, at the Méridien Beach Plaza.

The event featured three keynote speakers: Éric Larchevêque, co-founder of Ledger and a prominent figure in French tech; Ian Sosso, founder of Monte Carlo Capital and recipient of the Best European Angel Investor award; and Catherine Barba, a pioneering expert in e-commerce and digital innovation.

Larchevêque shared personal insights on resilience and self-belief, encouraging participants to focus on sustainable growth. He remarked, “It’s better to go slower but go further.”

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, he admitted, “When I started my first company, I had no idea what a startup was or how to run one.”

He also emphasised the importance of clear communication in building a successful venture, noting, “The more you communicate, the more you can align values and create meaningful connections.”

Sosso, a Monegasque entrepreneur, focused on the intricacies of venture capital. His keynote speech, ‘Strategy of a Venture’, detailed the processes of creating deal flows and selecting promising projects, offering practical guidance on navigating the complexities of investment.

Barba, renowned for her work in digital transformation, has been a driving force in helping businesses adapt to the demands of online commerce. She is also a mentor for startups, advocating for entrepreneurial growth and encouraging more women to enter the field. During her address, Barba shared practical advice on scaling businesses, emphasising the importance of clear strategies and effective communication.

A platform for ideas and spontaneous opportunities 

The day included a networking breakfast, interactive workshops, and roundtables designed to equip participants with the tools needed to advance their projects. A standout moment was a spontaneous pitch by Barba and a representative from JCI Nice, who shared their ambition to replicate the event in Nice but required €15,000 in funding.

Encouraged to present their idea on stage, they received immediate feedback from Larchevêque and Barba, who offered practical advice on fundraising. In a surprising turn, an audience member pledged €5,000 towards their goal, showcasing the collaborative and supportive spirit of the event.

The event was widely regarded as a success, with Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Monaco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, describing it as a “key and inspiring initiative”.

Larchevêque also highlighted the importance of the event’s community spirit, stating, “We know we have a good entourage when people lift you up.”

With plans for Monaco Inspire to become an annual event, the success and positive reception of its first edition demonstrate its potential to play a significant role in supporting entrepreneurship in Monaco.

Read related:

JCI Monaco empowers aspiring entrepreneurs with new start-up initiative

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo credit: Philippe Fitte

Distinguished Monegasque personalities honoured by the Order of Malta

by: Cassandra Tanti
03/12/2024

A prestigious ceremony at the Hôtel Hermitage on 2nd December celebrated the enduring ties between Monaco and the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, as distinguished figures from the Principality received decorations of the Order of Merito Melitense.

The accolades, conferred by The Grand Master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta Fra’ John T. Dunlap and the Sovereign Council during a session on 20th June, were presented by the Ambassador of the Order of Malta to Monaco. Among the honorees were Monaco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, who received the Cross with Plaque, and Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Principality of Monaco Isabelle Rosabrunetto and Director of Diplomatic and Consular Relations Marie-Catherine Caruso-Ravera, who were both awarded the Cross with Crown.

Prominent attendees included Christophe Steiner, Chief of Staff to Prince Albert II; Jean d’Haussonville, the French Ambassador to Monaco; and Marc Lecourt, President of the Association of Honorary Consuls. Key members of the Order’s Monaco branch, such as President Jean Kerwat and Chancellor-General Secretary Didier Gamerdinger, were also present.

The medals of honour were officially handed out on 2nd December in Monaco. Photo source: Sovereign Council of the Order of Malta

In his address, Ambassador Alberto di Luca reflected on the historic connection between the Grimaldi family and the Order of Malta, a bond that dates back to 1168. He praised the successful diplomatic relations established 14 years ago and spoke about the Order’s humanitarian mission rooted in the principles of “defense of the faith and assistance to the poor”.

Isabelle Berro-Amadeï lauded the Order’s neutrality and commitment to humanitarian efforts, reaffirming Monaco’s dedication to collaborative initiatives that provide aid to vulnerable populations.

Instituted in 1920, the Order of Merito Melitense honours exceptional achievements that enhance the prestige of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. Open to individuals outside the Order, it remains an emblem of global recognition for humanitarian and charitable contributions.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Main photo from left to right: the President of the Association of the Order of Malta in Monaco Jean Kerwat, the Chief of Staff of H.S.H. Prince Albert II Christophe Steiner, the Director of Diplomatic and Consular Relations Marie-Catherine Caruso-Ravera, the Director General of International Cooperation Isabelle Rosabrunetto, the Government Adviser and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, the Ambassador of the Order of Malta Alberto di Luca, Ambassador of France Jean d’Haussonville, the President of the Association of Honorary Consuls Marc Lecourt. Source: Sovereign Council of the Order of Malta. 

Vertical garden inventor Patrick Blanc joins Prince Albert II at Passion Sea’s Flowers4Art

by: Niki Borisova
03/12/2024

The recent Flowers4Art event, organised by Helga Piaget of Passion Sea, highlighted the powerful ability of vertical gardens to transform urban spaces and bring themes of nature and greenery into city living. Prince Albert II was among the guests at the showcase in late November, alongside renowned French botanist Patrick Blanc, the man who invented the green wall concept in the 1980s.

On 30th November, Prince Albert was the guest of honour at Passion Sea’s latest sustainability-focused event, Flowers4Art, hosted at the Hôtel Métropole from 28th November to 1st December.

Spearheaded by Helga Piaget, the founder of Passion Sea, the event sought to highlight the incredible potential and impact of integrating plants and vertical gardens into urban environments, while also exploring innovative and sustainable solutions for creating and maintaining so-called living green walls.

Prince Albert toured the various displays in the company of French botanist Patrick Blanc, who is credited with creating the modern vertical hydroponics garden in 1986. Blanc later gave a talk discussing the global potential for vertical gardens and eco-friendly building practices, adaptable to all climates and regions.

The Prince, meanwhile, commended Piaget and the Passion Sea team for their dedication to promoting sustainable development initiatives and programmes.

The event featured seven pioneering projects linked to the integration of greenery into urban architecture. Among the standout presentations was that of Respyre, a Dutch system that combines concrete and moss to create sustainable vertical gardens, as well as Monaco’s Dilectus Design display, which presented ‘Abaco,’ a modular green panel system for ecological facades.

Other intriguing concepts included Italian architect Maria Burgos’ MOFs, a solar-powered solution that reduces the water consumption needed to maintain urban green spaces.

French companies Bryoflor and Yves Grangier demonstrated innovative uses of living moss, while MoosMoos, a 2024 German Design Award winner, showcased bespoke moss walls and multicoloured moss art. The Garden Club of Monaco also contributed with a floral creation depicting the Passion Sea logo.

Read related:

Interview: Helga Piaget, the founder of Passion Sea, on her vision for a cleaner planet 

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Prince Albert II is pictured centre with Maria Bologna (centre left), Helga Piaget (centre right) and Patrick Blanc (to the right of Piaget)

Photo credit: Axel Bastello / Palais Princier de Monaco

Louis-II Stadium set to undergo three-year renovation 

by: Cassandra Tanti
03/12/2024

Monaco’s iconic Louis-II Stadium is set to receive a comprehensive facelift over the next three years to prepare for hosting the Games of the Small States of Europe in 2027. The ambitious renovation plan, announced by the new Minister of the Interior Lionel Beffre, will modernise seating, refreshment areas, and sanitary facilities to enhance the stadium’s functionality and comfort.

The transformation of the Louis-II Stadium is scheduled to unfold between 2025 and 2027, aligning with Monaco’s growing status as a global hub for sports. As Monaco prepares to accommodate the title of ‘World Capital of Sport’ in 2025, these upgrades are part of a broader vision to cement the Principality’s reputation in hosting high-profile events, from the Grand Prix to international football and tennis competitions.

Key upgrades for the Louis-II Stadium

Lionel Beffre announced during a press conference on Thursday 28th November that the initial phase of the renovation will focus on replacing the stadium’s seating with modern, more comfortable options. While the colour scheme remains undecided, it will ultimately be determined by Prince Albert II, with many fans hoping for a continuation of the traditional red and white motif. The next steps will involve revitalising outdated refreshment bars and expanding and modernising the stadium’s sanitary facilities.

Looking beyond 2027, Monaco has long-term plans for the stadium, including new reception halls, a renovated parking structure, and the installation of solar panels on the roof. Beffre said that these upgrades reflect a significant financial commitment but are essential for maintaining the stadium’s status as a premier venue.

Enhanced visitor experience and safety measures

Beffre also highlighted recent successes in managing traffic and crowd safety during major sporting events. He praised the effectiveness of Public Security during high-profile matches, such as AS Monaco’s Champions League fixtures, noting smoother traffic flow and reduced delays for drivers leaving the stadium. These improvements contribute to a safer, more enjoyable experience for attendees.

Villa Sauber to undergo a transformation by Renzo Piano

In a separate announcement, Beffre outlined plans for Villa Sauber, which will undergo a significant renovation led by renowned architect Renzo Piano. The project aims to expand exhibition spaces from 650 to 4,000 square metres and reimagine the esplanade. Work on the villa is expected to begin in 2026, with completion slated for 2029, marking a new chapter for Monaco’s cultural offerings.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

Monaco Private Label and Prince Albert II promote the Principality in Singapore

by: Stephanie Horsman
03/12/2024
Monaco Private Label

A series of recent events in Singapore, organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and attended by members of Monaco Private Label, have showcased the Principality’s commitment to fostering international collaboration while highlighting Monaco’s enduring global appeal through the promotion of its strengths as a place of innovation, investment and philanthropy.

Since its inception in 2009, Monaco Private Label (MPL) has been building a global network aimed at elevating the Principality’s international stature. With nearly 2,000 investment members and business leaders from over 60 countries, today’s MPL serves as an international platform for developing connections and opportunities in business and beyond.

MPL was a key component of a series of events held in Singapore between 26th and 28th November. Organised by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and attended by Prince Albert II himself, the gatherings marked a significant step in enhancing Monaco’s global attractiveness within the Southeast Asian nation, with key achievements including the establishment of new connections with investors and family offices that position Monaco as an important European investment hub.

The Asian MPL community was also actively engaged through events such as the Ocean Innovators Platform and the Ball in Monaco: Glacier Edition gala, two separate events that focused on critical topics like the blue economy, innovation, and philanthropy. Influential Monegasque figures in Asia were also invited to attend.

See more: The Glaciers gala wraps up Prince Albert II’s Asia-Pacific tour in style

Speaking on the importance of the visit to Singapore, Frédéric Genta, Monaco’s Interministerial Delegate for Attractiveness and Digital Transition, said, “Singapore and Monaco share strategic, economic and philanthropic similarities. As a true economic crossroads, it is essential to intensify relations in this key region.”

Genta accompanied Chloé Leclercq-Boscagli, Director of MPL, on the trip.

The overseas venture also set the stage for a presentation of the upcoming Monaco Day at Davos, an event scheduled to take place within the context of the World Economic Forum in the Swiss city on 23rd January 2025.

Read related:

Interview: Monaco Private Label’s Chloé Leclercq and her vision for the global elite club

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo credit: Michael Alesi / Palais Princier de Monaco

France: Public sector strike on Thursday to affect schools and other essential services

by: Stephanie Horsman
03/12/2024

School closures, municipal service disruptions and slower healthcare could all be on the cards if France’s major trade unions go through with their planned strike on Thursday 5th December. The action is being undertaken in response to government rulings on the extension of the controversial three-day waiting period before sick leave is paid out, as well as a reduction in sick pay and job cuts in the public sector.

Seven out of France’s eight major unions – the CGT, CFDT, UNSA, FSU, Solidaires, CFE-CGC and FA-FP – are calling on civil servants to demonstrate on Thursday 5th December in a show of solidarity against a range of recently introduced government policies.

The strike aims to challenge a number of punitive measures affecting civil servants. The reforms under scrutiny include the extension of the waiting period for sick leave to three days, a reduction in sick pay from 100% to 90% and significant job cuts planned for 2025.

These “Kasbarian Reforms” – the name given by the unions to the controversial set of measures being spearheaded by Guillaume Kasbarian, France’s Minister of Civil Service, Simplification and Transformation of Public Action – have sparked widespread outrage.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s announcement of a €1.2 billion cut to the 2025 civil service budget has further fuelled discontent, with unions warning of severe consequences for public services.

In a statement on its website, FSU06 criticised the government’s rhetoric of “debureaucratisation”, describing it as “civil servant bashing” and accusing the administration of scapegoating workers while ignoring systemic fiscal injustices.

SECTORS AFFECTED

Workers from France’s public education sector are expected to be at the heart of the actions, with many elementary schools and crèches likely to remain closed. For schools that remain open, canteens may still be shuttered.

Unions have pointed to the elimination of 4,000 positions in schools and reduced sick leave compensation for teaching and school staff as emblematic of the government’s disregard for the sector’s needs.

Beyond education, certain municipal services will face significant disruptions. Town halls are expected to operate with limited reception capacity, and citizens are advised to postpone administrative tasks. Hospital staff are participating in the strike too, although emergency care will remain operational, and railway workers represented by participating unions are also expected to join the nationwide action.

In Nice, protestors are set to gather at 10am in the Jardin Albert Ier before marching through Avenue de Verdun, Avenue Jean Médecin and Avenue de la Libération. Similar marches are being planned in the Bouches-du-Rhône, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes and Vaucluse departments.

MORE TO COME?

The unions are framing the upcoming strike as the launchpad for sustained resistance through the end of the year, with a warning that Thursday’s strike may be only the beginning.

The rallying cry of “Everyone on strike on 5th December” reflects their combined determination to resist the government’s reforms. In addition to opposing Kasbarian’s measures, unions are calling for salary increases, the restoration of the guaranteed individual purchasing power allowance (GIPA) and an official status for assistants for pupils with disabilities.

Read related:

France: Mass strikes to disrupt travel in the coming weeks

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok. 

 

Photo credit: Victor Salazar, Pixabay