Cambodia Investment Review
Stronghold Trustee (Cambodia), a key player in Cambodia’s trust sector, was honored with the Outstanding Trust Service Provider award at the 2024 Cambodia Trust Forum, at Sokha Hotel in Phnom Penh. The forum, which was themed “Trust: Beyond a Platform for Trust Building,” emphasized recent advancements in the sector, including the launch of Cambodia’s new Trust Registration System.
Founded in 2019, Stronghold Trustee emerged shortly after the Cambodian Trust Law was promulgated, with a mission to create a reliable investment environment. By offering trusted services that promote security and transparency, Stronghold Trustee has been at the forefront of supporting both foreign and local investments. The company has become synonymous with trust management in Cambodia, offering services designed to protect and facilitate business growth in the Kingdom.
Building Confidence in Cambodia’s Investment Landscape
Speaking to Cambodia Investment Review Mr. Hans Chen, CEO Of Stronghold Trustee said: “We are extremely proud to receive this prestigious award. Our goal is to empower clients by providing secure and transparent channels for trust asset management, fostering confidence in Cambodia’s growing investment climate. With our strong foundation and the backing of international financial resources, we are well-positioned to support both foreign and local investors looking to capitalize on the numerous opportunities in Cambodia.”
Stronghold Trustee offers a wide range of services, including the management of trust property for commercial and individual purposes, and providing legal advice on the creation of trusts in Cambodia. The company has become a trusted partner for businesses looking to safeguard their investments and ensure sustainable growth in Cambodia.
“By protecting investments, we play a key role in the long-term growth of businesses operating in Cambodia,” Hans added.
The Trust Sector’s Strategic Role in Cambodia’s Economic Development
The Trust Forum highlighted the importance of the trust sector in Cambodia’s broader economic strategy. H.E. Sok Dara, Director General of the Trust Regulator, emphasized the forum’s role in encouraging knowledge-sharing and collaboration. “The establishment of a robust trust sector aligns with Cambodia’s Financial Sector Development Strategy 2021-2025,” he said. “We are committed to supporting sustainable growth across financial services, and enhancing investment confidence through greater transparency and trust.”
H.E. Ros Seilava, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, highlighted the trust sector’s vital role in diversifying Cambodia’s economy and increasing tax revenues, stating: “As a key element of our Pentagonal Strategy Phase 1, the trust sector drives growth in banking, insurance, real estate, and securities. The launch of the Trust Registration System strengthens the sector by empowering trustees to manage operations efficiently while upholding transparency.”
Cambodia’s Growing Trust Market
The Cambodian trust market has experienced rapid growth, with 1,042 registered trusts valued at USD 1.68 billion as of October 2024. The majority of these trusts are in the commercial sector, which holds USD 1.16 billion in assets. Additionally, the real estate sector alone has seen over USD 700 million in assets placed in trust, with other areas such as escrow services, pension funds, and green bonds contributing significantly to the market’s expansion.
Stronghold Trustee’s award reflects its proactive role in driving this dynamic market forward.
“We are committed to building long-term trust relationships with our clients, ensuring they have the confidence to grow their investments in Cambodia,” Hans concluded. “As the demand for trusted services continues to rise, we remain dedicated to upholding high standards and expanding the range of trust services to meet the evolving needs of the Cambodian market.”
The 2024 Cambodia Trust Forum reinforced the importance of the trust sector in shaping Cambodia’s future as a financial hub. As the trust market continues to grow, operators like Stronghold Trustee will play a pivotal role in establishing a stable, transparent, and efficient financial ecosystem in Cambodia, contributing to the Kingdom’s broader economic success.
