A global initiative to promote investor education and protection is underway as World Investor Week 2025 runs from October 6 to 12, led by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
Now in its latest edition, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy, responsible investing, and the protection of investors in an increasingly digital and complex financial landscape.
The global campaign features participation from securities regulators, exchanges, financial organisations, and educators across six continents, with events tailored to national and regional contexts.
Activities include public awareness drives, webinars, training sessions, and outreach campaigns designed to help investors make informed decisions and guard against fraud.
A flagship feature of the campaign is the “Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy” initiative, held in collaboration with the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE).
Stock exchanges around the world symbolically “ring the bell” to demonstrate their commitment to investor education and market transparency.
Focus on Fraud, Digital Threats, and Investor Awareness
This year’s programme includes a strong emphasis on the emerging threat of digital fraud, particularly those involving artificial intelligence and online scams.
On October 7, U.S. regulators including the National Futures Association (NFA), FINRA, and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) hosted a webinar titled “Deconstructing to Disrupt Fraud”, which was a two-part event featuring Dr. Arda Akartuna.
The session explored how AI technologies are being weaponised by fraudsters, and how regulators and investors can respond with vigilance and education.
In Indonesia, the national financial regulator Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) is hosting a regional webinar on October 9 titled “Empowering Investors: Invest Wisely and Stay Safe from Fraud and Scams.”
The event features speakers from IOSCO’s Committee on Retail Investors and will discuss practical strategies to improve retail investor protection.
Investor education for older adults is also a priority in this year’s campaign. In the United States, the CFTC, FBI, and AARP have partnered on outreach aimed at Americans aged 50 and older, focusing on helping them identify and avoid scams. The organisers report that over 250 participants registered for this dedicated session.
Global Backing and Institutional Support
World Investor Week is supported by a wide range of international partners, including:
- The World Bank
- OECD
- G20
- Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) Initiative
- International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation
- European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA)
These partnerships reinforce IOSCO’s broader mission to promote not only awareness, but also long-term behavioural change among investors and institutions globally.
As the global standard-setter for securities regulation, IOSCO collaborates closely with the Financial Stability Board (FSB) and the G20 to ensure that investor protection remains a key pillar of global financial integrity and stability.
Building Resilience in a Complex Investment Landscape
With financial markets rapidly evolving due to digitisation, AI technologies, and cross-border investment platforms, retail investors are exposed to new complexities and risks.
World Investor Week serves as a timely reminder of the need for robust financial education, stronger regulatory safeguards, and proactive public engagement.
As the campaign continues through October 12, organisers hope to empower individuals with the knowledge to navigate risks, detect fraud, and contribute to more resilient financial markets across all levels of society.
Written By Nibir Ayaan
