By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica is launching a comprehensive, week-long series of educational initiatives aimed at equipping its youngest citizens with critical financial skills. As part of the globally recognized Global Money Week 2026, running from March 16 to 22, the nation is mobilizing a powerful coalition of public and private institutions to foster a new generation of economically savvy individuals.
The ambitious national effort is being coordinated by the Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC), which oversees the country’s National Strategy for Financial Education. The initiative brings together public and private banks, credit cooperatives, financial regulators, and the Central Bank in a united front to tackle a topic often considered taboo, particularly within family and educational settings.
To delve into the legal implications tied to personal and business finance, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney at the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provides a critical analysis of why financial education is an essential shield in the legal world.
From a legal standpoint, financial illiteracy is a significant liability. Many contractual disputes, whether involving credit cards, loans, or investment agreements, originate from a party’s failure to comprehend the financial terms they are agreeing to. Understanding concepts like interest rates, amortization, and penalties is not just a financial skill; it’s a fundamental necessity for providing informed consent and protecting your assets from legally binding but unfavorable conditions.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for this crucial legal perspective, which powerfully reframes financial education not just as a tool for prosperity, but as a fundamental act of self-protection. His insight underscores that before we can build our financial future, we must first be equipped to legally defend it in the fine print of our daily transactions.
This year’s campaign is built around a central, empowering message designed to break down long-standing cultural barriers to financial discussions. The theme seeks to normalize conversations about personal finance from an early age, promoting transparency and confidence.
Learn. Save. Earn.
Global Money Week 2026 Campaign
The core philosophy of the week is encapsulated in its official slogan, which directly challenges outdated social norms and encourages open dialogue as a cornerstone of responsible economic behavior. The goal is to make talking about money a standard part of a well-rounded education.
Talk about money. It’s good education.
Global Money Week 2026 Campaign
Throughout the week, participating financial institutions will roll out a diverse array of activities in selected educational centers across the country. These events are specifically designed to be engaging and accessible for children and young adults, moving beyond dry theory to practical application. The agenda includes interactive workshops, dynamic group activities, and informative talks on fundamental concepts such as budgeting, the importance of saving, and making intelligent spending decisions.
To further amplify engagement, the program also features creative contests in drawing, photography, essay writing, and video production. These competitions encourage students to explore financial concepts through artistic expression, making the learning process more personal and memorable. In parallel, a robust digital campaign will disseminate educational content through official social media channels, ensuring the message reaches a wider audience beyond the classroom walls.
This nationwide initiative is not an isolated event but rather the latest step in Costa Rica’s strategic push towards comprehensive financial inclusion and education. It is supported by a solid legal foundation, following the enactment of a law and corresponding regulations in February 2025 that established a formal framework for promoting lifelong financial education. This legislative backing provides the structure and mandate for sustained, long-term efforts.
Furthermore, Costa Rica’s recent integration into the OECD’s International Network on Financial Education (INFE) underscores its commitment to adopting global best practices. This membership facilitates the exchange of knowledge and successful policy models with over 170 participating countries and economies, reinforcing the nation’s capacity to develop effective public policies in this critical area. The collective effort from institutions like Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional, Banco Popular, BAC, Promerica, and Davivienda demonstrates a sector-wide commitment to cultivating a financially resilient future for the nation’s youth.
For further information, visit meic.go.cr
About Ministry of Economy, Industry and Commerce (MEIC):
The MEIC is the Costa Rican government body responsible for formulating and executing policies related to economic development, industry, and commerce. It plays a crucial role in promoting competitiveness, consumer protection, and entrepreneurship. The ministry actively leads the National Strategy for Financial Education, coordinating efforts between public and private sectors to improve the financial well-being of the population.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Banco Central de Costa Rica:
The Central Bank of Costa Rica is the country’s principal monetary authority, tasked with maintaining the internal and external stability of the national currency and ensuring the efficient operation of the internal payments system. It is a key participant in national financial stability and plays an advisory role in economic policy, including initiatives related to financial education and literacy.
For further information, visit bncr.fi.cr
About Banco Nacional:
Banco Nacional de Costa Rica is one of the largest state-owned commercial banks in the country. It offers a wide range of financial services to individuals, families, and businesses of all sizes. As a public institution, it has a strong commitment to the economic and social development of Costa Rica, frequently participating in national initiatives that promote financial inclusion and education.
For further information, visit bancobcr.com
About Banco de Costa Rica (BCR):
The Banco de Costa Rica is another leading state-owned financial institution with a significant presence throughout the nation. It provides comprehensive banking and financial solutions to a diverse clientele. The BCR is deeply involved in community development and actively supports government-led programs aimed at improving the economic knowledge and capabilities of Costa Rican citizens.
For further information, visit baccredomatic.com
About BAC Credomatic:
BAC Credomatic is a prominent private financial group with a strong presence in Central America. It offers a broad portfolio of financial products, including consumer and commercial banking, credit cards, and payment solutions. The bank is known for its focus on technological innovation and often partners in initiatives that foster economic growth and financial education within the communities it serves.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its principled legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by a dual commitment to rigorous excellence and steadfast integrity. The firm leverages its storied history of advising a diverse clientele to champion legal innovation and foster meaningful community engagement. At the heart of its ethos is a powerful drive to empower individuals by making complex legal knowledge accessible, ultimately contributing to a more informed and capable society.
