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Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront

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Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront
Business

Business

Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront

2025-03-25 17:23 Last Updated At:17:45

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia, March 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a rapidly changing financial landscape, Cambodia's banking sector is emerging as a beacon of trust and innovation. Through significant advancements in digital banking, stringent cybersecurity measures, and transparent regulatory frameworks, the nation is positioning itself as a leader in ethical banking practices.

Digital Banking Surge Enhances Financial Inclusion

Recent data from the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC) reveals a notable shift towards mobile banking. In 2024, over 608 million transactions and payments, an increase of 334% from 2023, were made through the Bakong Payment System with the total value of 183 trillion KHR or 457 billion USD, a 127% increase from 2023. This trend underscores a growing consumer preference for accessible and user-friendly mobile platforms, reflecting its widespread adoption. NBC's Bakong System has been instrumental in this digital transformation. By integrating e-wallets, mobile payments, and online banking into a single platform, Bakong has simplified transactions and broadened financial access, particularly in rural areas.

"Digital payments are transforming financial inclusion in Cambodia, especially for underserved communities. By using mobile banking and platforms like the Bakong system, we are making financial services more accessible, affordable, and secure—particularly for those in rural areas," said Ms. Dith Nita, Chairwoman of the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA). 

Strengthening Cybersecurity and Regulatory Transparency

To maintain financial stability amid rapid digitalization, Cambodia's banking sector has prioritized cybersecurity and transparent regulatory practices. The Association of Banks in Cambodia (ABC), together with the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) has been proactive in promoting consumer protection, financial literacy, and industry-wide cybersecurity initiatives, thereby fostering a stable and resilient financial environment.

In a significant regulatory development, NBC has introduced a framework that uses blockchain technology, providing clear guidelines to encourage innovation in digital finance while safeguarding financial stability. This move not only positions Cambodia as a responsible player in the global financial ecosystem but also attracts fintech firms seeking a regulated yet flexible environment for growth.

Commitment to Ethical Banking Practices

Cambodia's financial institutions are dedicated to ethical banking, emphasizing responsible lending and financial inclusion. The NBC-UN Multi-Stakeholder Consultation on Microfinance, held in January 2025, highlighted key reforms such as prohibiting the use of Indigenous Communal Land Titles (ICLTs) as collateral and establishing a Financial Consumer Centre under the ABC and the Cambodia Microfinance Association (CMA) to assist borrowers in financial distress. These measures underscore the sector's commitment to ethical practices and consumer protection.

ABC Chairman Rath Sophoan said, "As responsible providers, we are committed to ensuring financial access while contributing positively to the well-being of the population, always upholding the principles of transparency, fairness, and social responsibility."

A Model for Regional Banking Excellence

With secure digital platforms, clear regulatory frameworks, and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices, Cambodia's banking sector is setting a high standard in the region. As global investors seek stability and transparency, Cambodia is proving itself as a reliable and innovative financial hub.

By balancing technological advancement with ethical banking, Cambodia's financial institutions are fostering long-term trust, ensuring the country remains a key player in Southeast Asia's financial landscape—ready for the future, yet firmly grounded in stability.

For further details please contact:
ABC Secretariat
Mr. Sok Chan, Head of Financial Inclusion and Public Relations
Email: abc_fi@abc.org.kh
Phone: +855 92 683 330

CMA Secretariat
Mr. Tongngy Kaing, Head of Communications
Email: hcd@cma-network.org
Phone: +855 95 262 111

About ABC

The Association of Banks in Cambodia was formed in 1994 and is recognized by the Royal Government as the official organization to represent the country's private banking sector. Our purpose is to promote constructive dialogue amongst member banks, and to serve as an industry voice to the public and the Government.

About CMA

The Cambodia Microfinance Association is an NGO and professional association that aims to ensure the prosperity and sustainability of the microfinance sector in Cambodia. CMA plays a vital role in creating local and international networks as well as seeking equity and loan funds, new technologies and overseeing conflict resolution between microfinance operators. All of these activities have led each member microfinance institution to become stronger and more successful and thereby attract support from the international market to enable industry expansion.

For media inquiries:
TWPR
Ms. Pheng Kim Hoan, Managing Director
Email: kim@twowaypr.com
Phone: +855 10 455 466

** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **

Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront

Cambodia's Banking Evolution: Trust and Innovation at the Forefront

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Artly debuts mini Barista Bot at National Restaurant Association 2025 show

2025-05-17 21:00 Last Updated At:21:15

CHICAGO, May 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Artly has unveiled new upgrades to its fully automated robotic barista, the Barista Bot, at the National Restaurant Association 2025 show (NRA). The upgrades include a more compact mini version of the Barista Bot, now only 4ft x 4ft, a bigger refrigerator for increased storage, a customizable design on its countertops to better fit the décor in different settings, and improved learning ability that allows the bot to make even more beverages.

Automation and robotics in restaurants are prominent themes at this year's NRA, and there is hardly a more striking example than of the robotic arm on Artly's mini Barista Bot pouring intricate latte art.

Designed for coffee shops, event venues, and restaurants, Artly's Barista Bot is built on Artly's Vision-Language-Action (VLA) AI model. Trained using motion capture data provided by world-class baristas, the Barista Bot can already craft 28 hot and iced beverages by replicating the artist's movements, including intricate latte art. Continuous improvements to Barista Bot's learning ability will allow for even more menu options.

The Barista Bot has served nearly 1 million cups of coffee since its first model five years ago, has raised over $10 million in funding, and can be found in 15 cafe locations across the US and major expansion plans this year. The upgrades and customization made to the new mini Barista Bot model on display at NRA 2025 were designed to help expand locations by being more versatile and more applicable. This includes countertop options in white, walnut, or the original wood coloring.  

"With these new upgrades, Barista Bot is now able to serve more drinks to more customers, becoming a natural addition to cafes that not only better fits the café's aesthetics but serves, fast, consistent and top-quality coffee." said Yushan Chen, Chief Operating Officer of Artly. "Our mission is to share culinary artistry with everyone, and we invite NRA attendees to come by and experience it firsthand."

Visit Artly to see the Barista Bot and more in action at the National Restaurant Association Show 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, May 17-20, booth #8739.

About Artly

Founded in 2020, Artly has transformed the coffee industry by combining advanced AI with a deep appreciation for artisanal coffee. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the company provides authentic specialty coffee experiences through its robotic baristas. Since its inception, Artly has already generated over $5 million in coffee revenue. With a client portfolio that includes Jump Trading, Microsoft, MUJI, Nvidia, and other leading brands, Artly is poised to lead the food and beverage automation market while preserving the craftsmanship and artistry behind every cup.

To learn more, visit artly.ai

Media Contact

Cecilia Qian
Public Relations Manager
cecilia@impact5r.com

** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **

Artly debuts mini Barista Bot at National Restaurant Association 2025 show

Artly debuts mini Barista Bot at National Restaurant Association 2025 show

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