Cambodia’s banking sector has undergone a remarkable digital transformation, emerging as a leading example of financial innovation in Southeast Asia. For property investors seeking secure and efficient finance solutions, its modernised system offers unprecedented digital capabilities, robust security measures, and streamlined services that make it an attractive destination for real estate investment.
Digital revolution: Bakong
At the heart of Cambodia’s bank modernisation lies the groundbreaking Bakong payment system, launched by the National Bank of Cambodia (NBC). Bakong is adopted the latest technology, Blockchain technology, known as the highly secure, representing one of the world’s first blockchain-based national payment platforms. This has revolutionised digital transactions, providing property investors with secure, efficient payment solutions.
The Bakong system’s impressive growth demonstrates its widespread adoption. 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 the previous year. This exponential growth reflects the system’s reliability and user confidence, making it an ideal platform for property investment transactions.
Advanced security infrastructure and digital protection
Cambodia’s banking system prioritises cybersecurity and digital protection, implementing multiple layers of security to safeguard investor assets. Thanks to the inherent security features of the blockchain and the associated ledger copies, the risks of fraud, hardware failure, tampering, and, most importantly, cyberattacks are mitigated. The blockchain technology underlying the Bakong system ensures that users’ information is stored in at the different node preventing the possibility of hacking.
The sector has demonstrated its commitment to cybersecurity through coordinated efforts. Cambodian Banks Unite for Cybersecurity Day 2025 as Sector Strengthens Digital Defenses, highlighting the industry’s proactive approach to addressing emerging cyber threats. Banks have identified key security challenges including phishing, ransomware, and fake telecom signals targeting banking users, and have implemented comprehensive measures to combat these risks.
Regulatory framework and financial stability
The NBC maintains a robust regulatory framework that ensures financial stability while promoting innovation. These measures include fully easing capital buffer requirements and maintaining the reserve requirement ratio at a low level until the end of 2025, enabling banking and financial institutions to maintain high liquidity for providing credit. This regulatory approach provides property investors with confidence in the system’s stability and liquidity.
Cambodia’s banking infrastructure comprises a diverse ecosystem designed to serve various investor needs. The system includes 51 commercial banks, 12 specialised banks, 75 microfinance non-deposit taking institutions, 6 microfinance deposit-taking institutions, 245 rural credit institutions, providing comprehensive coverage across different investment scales and requirements.
International connectivity
Cambodia’s banking system has achieved significant international connectivity, enhancing its appeal for global property investors. This year marks another milestone: the official launch of cross-border connectivity with Japan through aKHQR–JPQR integration, announced at the World Expo Osaka 2025. The system continues expanding its international reach, with further connections underway with Singapore, India and the Philippines, creating a seamless cross-border payment ecosystem.
This international integration facilitates easier property transactions for foreign investors, eliminating traditional barriers and reducing transaction costs while maintaining high security standards.
Challenges and solutions in digital transformation
Despite remarkable progress, the kingdom’s banking modernisation journey has faced several challenges. The sector has had to address cybersecurity threats, including sophisticated scams: Criminals use SMS, email, and malicious apps to steal personal data and install harmful software. However, the responded proactively, calling for stronger defenses, public awareness, and joint efforts to protect digital finance.
The adoption of new technologies required significant infrastructure investment and user education. Banks have overcome these challenges by implementing user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive security protocols, making digital banking accessible to both tech-savvy investors and traditional banking users.
Privacy and user security
Privacy protection remains a cornerstone of Cambodia’s digital banking system. The Bakong system uses no personally identifiable information and preserves the privacy of users while still allowing the central bank to view transactions. This balance between privacy and regulatory oversight provides property investors with confidence in transaction security while ensuring compliance with financial regulations.
The system’s security architecture includes inherent security features of the blockchain also mean fewer risks of fraud, tampering and cyberattacks, creating a trustworthy environment for large-scale property investments.
Future outlook and investment opportunities
This exciting evolution positions the country as a model of regional banking excellence. Its solid digital infrastructure, transparent regulations and commitment to inclusion are attracting global investors while instilling confidence in local markets. The combination of technological advancement and regulatory stability creates an optimal environment for property investment.
The banking sector’s focus on cost reduction and user inclusivity are the most important benefits of this system, making property investment more accessible and affordable for international investors. With continued digital innovation and strengthened security measures, property investors can rely on a reliable, secure, and efficient platform for real estate transactions.
In short, this modernised system represents a successful blend of innovation, security, and regulatory compliance. For property investors, the combination of blockchain-based payment systems, robust cybersecurity measures, international connectivity, and user-friendly digital platforms creates an ideal environment for real estate investment. The sector’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to global standards ensures that this small nation remains an attractive destination for property investment in Southeast Asia.
The finance system’s evolution from traditional services to cutting-edge digital solutions demonstrates the government’s commitment to financial modernisation while maintaining the highest security standards. As the system continues to expand, its international connections and enhance its security capabilities, property investors can confidently engage with the real estate market through its advanced digital infrastructure.
