Cambodia Investment Revifew
Cambodia’s capital markets regulator is stepping up efforts to build financial literacy among young people, using practical incentives and university partnerships to encourage early engagement with the securities sector.
On December 15, 2025, the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), in collaboration with VANDA University, hosted a dissemination workshop on “Promoting Financial Literacy Awareness of the Securities Sector” at the university’s campus. The event was supported by ACLEDA Securities Plc. and Benjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., and attracted more than 400 participants.
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The workshop was presided over by H.E. Sou Socheat, Delegate of the Royal Government in charge and Director General of SERC, alongside H.E. Dr. Heng Vanda, Chairman of the Board of Directors of VANDA University. Organisers said the initiative reflects a growing focus on embedding financial education into Cambodia’s higher education system.
Turning Students Into Early Investors
A central feature of the workshop was the emphasis on practical participation in the securities market. Students attending the event were provided with a free Investor Identification Number issued by SERC and a complimentary trading account from ACLEDA Securities Plc., lowering the barriers to entry for first-time investors.
According to SERC, this approach is intended to move financial literacy beyond theory, allowing students to better understand how regulated capital markets operate while still in their academic environment. Organisers said early exposure can help young people develop disciplined saving and investment habits before entering full-time employment.
Financial Literacy As An Economic Skill
During the workshop, H.E. Sou Socheat highlighted that financial literacy is increasingly essential for both personal financial stability and national economic development. He noted that understanding how to manage income, control unnecessary spending and allocate savings effectively is critical in a rapidly digitising economy.
He also pointed to the financial sector as a growing source of employment opportunities, where demand for skills and knowledge continues to rise. A financially literate workforce, he said, plays an important role in supporting investment flows and long-term economic growth across sectors.
Universities As A Bridge To Capital Markets
VANDA University has incorporated securities-related subjects into its academic curriculum, positioning itself as a key partner in developing Cambodia’s future financial talent. H.E. Dr. Heng Vanda said the university sees investment education as part of its responsibility to prepare students for real-world economic participation.
These efforts were recognised in 2025, when VANDA University received an award for outstanding performance in promoting investment growth, reflecting its role in connecting students with Cambodia’s securities ecosystem through education and training.
Preparing Youth For The Digital Economy
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “How Should Youth Prepare to Seize Job Opportunities in the Digital Age and Generate Income Through the Securities Market?” Speakers from SERC, VANDA University, ACLEDA Securities Plc. and Benjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. discussed how students can align career planning with financial management and long-term investment strategies.
Panellists emphasised the importance of understanding risk, regulation and the long-term nature of investing, particularly as digital tools make financial markets more accessible to younger generations.
A total of 403 participants, including university management and students, attended the workshop. SERC said similar initiatives will continue as part of its broader mandate to strengthen investor education, market confidence and sustainable growth in Cambodia’s securities sector.
