The Minister of Finance, Honorable Marinka Gumbs, is encouraging the people of Sint Maarten to take advantage of the activities organized by the Ministry of Finance in recognition of Financial Literacy Month 2026, under the theme “Make It Make Cents.”
This November marks the fourth annual observance of Financial Literacy Month on Sint Maarten, reflecting the Ministry’s continued efforts to promote financial awareness and equip residents with the knowledge and tools needed to manage their finances, plan for the future, and make informed financial decisions.
Minister Gumbs emphasized that financial literacy is not only about earning money, but also about knowing how to manage what you earn. “Too often, we work hard for our money, but we are not always equipped with the knowledge to make that money work for us. Financial literacy is about understanding how to budget, save, invest, plan for retirement, and protect what we have worked so hard to build,” the Minister stated.
The Minister further noted that financial education should not be viewed as something reserved for individuals with large incomes. “Whether you earn minimum wage, operate a small business, are raising a family, or preparing for retirement, financial knowledge is important. You do not have to be wealthy to start planning for your financial future. What matters is taking that first step,” Minister Gumbs added.
As part of Financial Literacy Month, the Ministry has organized a series of free educational sessions featuring professionals from various financial sectors. These sessions will address
practical matters that affect individuals and families in their everyday lives, with topics relevant to students, young adults, working professionals, parents, business owners, and senior citizens.
“Financial literacy has no age limit. It is never too early to start learning how to manage your money, and it is never too late to make better financial decisions,” Minister Gumbs stated.
The scheduled sessions include:
- November 17 – Pension Planning: Hosted by Algemeen Pensioenfonds St. Maarten (APS)
- November 18 – Last Will & Testament / Mortgage: Hosted by Notary Mingo
- November 19 – Preparing for Life’s Uncertainties: Hosted by Laetitia Connor and Tamisha Wigley of NAGICO
- November 20 – Budgeting Basics: Hosted by Shineca Carty, Budget Babe
- November 24 – Filing Income Tax: Hosted by Marlon Kwidama of the Tax Administration
- November 25 – Investing in Action: From Knowledge to Ownership: Hosted by Emilio Kalmera
- November 26 – Financial Resilience in the Age of AI: Hosted by Emilio Kalmera
All sessions will begin at 6:00 PM at the Government Administration Building. Participation is free, and members of the public are encouraged to register in advance at www.finlitsxm.com.
Minister Gumbs stressed that one of the main objectives of the initiative is to make financial information more accessible and easier to understand. “We sometimes use financial terms that sound complicated, but managing your money should not be complicated. We want people to feel comfortable asking questions, whether it is about filing their income taxes, preparing a will, understanding their pension, or simply learning how to stretch their salary until the end of the month.”
The Minister also highlighted the importance of encouraging young people to develop good financial habits early in life. “If we want to build a financially stronger Sint Maarten, we must start by educating our people.
We must teach our young people the value of saving, the importance of budgeting, and the difference between what we need and what we want.” Minister Gumbs expressed appreciation to the participating organizations and professionals who have committed their time and expertise to making the initiative possible.
She concluded with a call to the public:
“Knowledge is power, and financial knowledge can change lives. I encourage everyone to attend at least one of these sessions. Bring a family member, encourage a young person, or invite a friend. The information you receive today may help you avoid financial difficulties tomorrow. Let us work together toward a more financially informed and financially secure Sint Maarten.”
Make It Make Cents – Because Your Financial Future Matters.
