RAMP Voices: Ly Sideth, National Bank of Cambodia

What are the top three reasons your institution joined RAMP?

First, joining RAMP has provided access to experts’ guidance and advice which has been instrumental in elevating capacity at the central bank. Second, RAMP has also offered many seminars and workshop with very relevant and up-to-date topics, helping our staff networking with peer central banks and other public asset managers. Last but not least, we are able to invest in asset classes that our internal capacity or system does not yet support.

What do you appreciate most about RAMP?

RAMP has always made their experts available when we asked. They are always very helpful and professional.

What is one lesson you have learned from another RAMP member?

Many lessons were learned and to name one is that capacity building has been critical for effective management of foreign reserves.

What's your favorite RAMP resource?

The workbench is an important tool in our strategic asset allocation process

What’s your favorite workshop?

The Advanced Strategic Asset Allocation using Workbench Workshop.

Describe one of the most memorable moments working with RAMP.

The hosting of credit risk management workshop in Siem Reap, Cambodia, in 2013 was one of the most memorable moments with RAMP. The workshop allowed us to welcome World Bank Treasury colleagues and central bank peers to our country. Participants were able to not only learn about important topics in reserve management but also experience Cambodia’s culture and hospitality.

Name the top three things with which RAMP has helped you, your team, or your institution.

At the onset of engagement with NBC, RAMP first started out by assisting in the development of investment policy and guideline and the reorganization of reserve management functions at NBC. Second, RAMP helped us develop a comprehensive framework for selecting a reserve management system and vendors. Third, RAMP legal team supported us to review legal document to identify any potential risk and provided technical assistance to increase our internal capacity with respect to legal aspects of reserve management.

Has your institution participated in the RAMP Survey on Central Bank Reserve Management Practices?

Yes, regularly.

Have you used the Benchmarking Analysis Tool? If so, what did you use it for?

We have not used it yet.

What do you look forward to next in your work with RAMP?

In-person missions and workshops would allow RAMP clients opportunities to build capacity for management of reserves. NBC also look forward to hosting RAMP events in Siem Reap, Cambodia, when the COVID-19 pandemic is in control and travel restrictions are lifted.

What’s the next product or service RAMP should offer?

RAMP should offer investment mandates and seminars related to emerging market bonds because this asset class has been gaining popularity among reserve managers.