Public Finance Data and Analysis
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The Central Bank of Sri Lanka acknowledges that while the financial knowledge among Sri Lankans is satisfactory compared to other countries, there exists a significant gap in financial behavior,as highlighted in its recently published Annual Economic Review 2023. This gap arises from various factors including attitudes towards finance, behavioral biases, lack of practical experience, socioeconomic barriers, and emotional influences. Poor financial behavior not only leaves individuals vulnerable to economic shocks but also contributes to macroeconomic instability and increases inequality. To address this, the Central Bank has developed a five-year Financial Literacy Roadmap in collaboration with numerous stakeholders. This roadmap aims to improve financial behavior by implementing targeted interventions, standardizing financial literacy materials, enhancing financial education in schools, and utilizing existing resources effectively. However, challenges remain in aligning with national policies, adapting to evolving financial landscapes, and ensuring accessibility and inclusivity of financial literacy interventions.
In response to the Central Bank's findings, Sri Lanka's financial knowledge is deemed satisfactory but there's a notable deficiency in financial behavior, posing challenges for individuals and the economy at large. This gap, influenced by various factors including attitudes, biases, and socioeconomic barriers, underscores the need for targeted interventions to translate knowledge into action. To bridge this gap, the Central Bank spearheaded a collaborative effort, resulting in the Financial Literacy Roadmap. This comprehensive plan, spanning five years, aims to standardize materials, enhance education, and utilize resources effectively. Challenges persist, however, in aligning with national policies and adapting to evolving landscapes, necessitating a holistic approach for sustained impact and empowerment of the populace.
