Cambodia introduces regulation for new asset management firms

Cambodia introduces regulation for new asset management firms Cambodia's central bank has implemented new regulations for asset management institutions, mandating a minimum registered capital of 200 billion riels (approximately $50 million) for applicants. The National Bank of Cambodia's edict aims to regulate non-performing loans and collateral in the financial sector. Applicants must deposit the required capital into a central bank account before starting operations, with licenses valid for five years and renewable upon payment of an annual fee of 50 million riels. Licensed firms can acquire and manage non-performing loans and collateral and conduct debt collection and auction processes. However, they are prohibited from issuing new loans, refinancing, or providing loan guarantees. (Source: Khmer Times)

Migrant remittance receipts down 37% in 2025, signaling external income pressure The significant decline in remittances from Cambodian workers abroad, which dropped 37% to $1.86 billion in 2025 from $2.95 billion in 2024, is primarily attributed to the repatriation of nearly 1 million migrant workers due to tensions at the Cambodia-Thailand border. As of December 2025, 433,594 Cambodians worked overseas, with women making up 150,393 of that total. The report from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (MLVT) highlighted that the returnees largely found employment in domestic sectors like garment manufacturing and informal jobs. Support measures were implemented by MLVT to assist returned workers in securing jobs and enhancing their skills through vocational training. Migrant workers play a crucial role in alleviating rural poverty and fostering economic growth in Cambodia. (Source: Khmer Times)

Cambodian women-led platform advances the evolution of the social business ecosystem A Cambodian woman-led social enterprise, Hydrologic Social Enterprise, has transitioned to an independently operated entity following its ownership transfer from international NGO iDE Cambodia. This milestone represents a significant step in the development of the social business sector in Cambodia. Established in 2001 as a clean-water program, Hydrologic has evolved over the past 15 years, providing affordable water solutions and distributing over 700,000 Tunsai ceramic water filters that remove 99.99% of bacteria. The initiative has positively impacted over 2 million people and contributed to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions. Under the leadership of Ms. Sam Sothea, Hydrologic aims to expand its market and maintain financial sustainability. The enterprise continues its mission to deliver high-quality, affordable safe water while fostering local employment and ethical business practices. (Source: Khmer Times)