British Virgin Islands – BVI Finance proudly partnered with the British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (FSC), through its Money Matters BVI financial literacy programme, to celebrate World Investor Week (WIW) 2025—a global initiative of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
Observed annually across more than 118 jurisdictions, World Investor Week promotes investor education, protection, and financial responsibility. This year’s campaign in the Virgin Islands placed a strong emphasis on the future of digital finance and youth empowerment, helping students understand the importance of innovation, responsibility, and opportunity in the evolving financial landscape.
Throughout the week, BVI Finance joined the FSC and other industry partners to deliver a series of educational activities designed to boost investment literacy and digital awareness among the Territory’s youth.
The highlight of the week were lively student workshops hosted for participants from Elmore Stoutt High School, St. George’s Secondary School, the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS), Ciboney Centre for Excellence and Bregado Flax Educational Centre. The interactive sessions covered topics such as the digital future of money, investment opportunities, and risk management in a rapidly changing financial environment.
Guest speakers included Simone Martin of Ignus Solutions and Jason McPherson of VP Bank, who explored key trends in financial technology and digital investment strategies.
The sessions culminated with the Barracuda Bay Digital Finance Challenge, a dynamic competition facilitated by Rhodni Skelton, Director of Marketing & Business Development at BVI Finance, and supported by Shamahl Smith and Kareem Ottley, members of Team BVI Finance. Student teams were tasked with designing and pitching a digital coin concept that could help solve a real-world community issue. The challenge encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and creativity - core skills for the next generation of financial leaders.
After a spirited round of presentations before a panel of “judging barracudas,” the teams from the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies and Bregado Flax Educational Centre emerged as the 2025 Barracuda Bay Champions.
“Partnering with the FSC for World Investor Week allows us to engage the Territory’s youth directly in conversations about the digital economy,” said Rhodni Skelton, BVI Finance’s Director of Marketing & Business Development. “It’s not just about understanding money, it’s about inspiring future innovators who will shape the BVI’s role in the global financial services landscape.”
BVI Finance remains committed to promoting financial education and awareness through strategic partnerships that empower Virgin Islanders to participate confidently in the digital era of finance.
About BVI Finance
BVI Finance is responsible for protecting and promoting the BVI’s financial services industry. The BVI is renowned as a leading international business and finance centre, offering a robust legal framework, a stable and business-friendly environment, and a strong reputation for regulatory compliance. With its strategic expertise in wealth management, corporate services, trusts, fund administration and digital assets, the BVI continues to attract global businesses, investors and financial professionals to use its products and services.
For further information please contact:
Shamahl A. Smith
Communications and Research Officer
ssmith@bvifinance.vg |Tel: 284-852-1957