Andorra Finance Minister Pushes Financial Education in Schools to Combat Crypto Scams

**Finance Minister Ramon Lladós has called for financial education to be added to Andorra's school curriculum, highlighting its role in combating cryptocurrency scams amid rising concerns over risky digital investments.**

Speaking at the first day of a responsible gaming event, Lladós described financial education as a key gap in the current system. He recalled a recent Consell General debate, initiated by an opposition group, that led to its inclusion in the curriculum. "Financial education is really one of the shortcomings of our education system," the minister said, linking it to vulnerabilities like crypto frauds.

The event also addressed gambling-related issues. Xavier Bardina, director of the Andorran Gaming Regulatory Council, reported around 60 self-excluded individuals—those who request bans from casinos and betting venues—but noted that 25% have since left the country. He attributed fluctuations to temporary residents, seasonal workers, or those who later lift their bans after a year. "It's not a very large figure and it varies a lot," Bardina said, citing diverse cases including welfare recipients.

Angelina Santolària, clinical coordinator at the Addictive Behaviours Unit, described a slow rise in demand for gambling addiction support. The unit treated nine patients in 2023 and 15 in 2024, with a similar pace projected for 2025. Most clients are men aged 35 to 65, with 14 men and one woman among last year's cases.

Separately, Projecte Vida association has flagged a sharp increase in digital investment problems, particularly cryptocurrencies, affecting young men. It assisted 14 cases in 2025 so far, up from five in 2024, with 90-95% involving crypto or digital assets. Losses often reach €20,000-€30,000, primarily among men aged 25-35, with no women reported.

Eva Tenorio, the association's executive secretary, welcomed Lladós's push but urged a broader approach. "Focusing on financial education is very positive... but it's not just a financial issue," she said. She advocated emotional education, critical thinking, and awareness of social media pressures and "financial gurus" promoting high-risk schemes. Tenorio drew parallels to pathological gambling, citing patterns like chasing losses, obsession, and volatility akin to betting. "It acts exactly like gambling," she noted, though not yet classified as an addiction in medical manuals.

Projecte Vida has shared its data with the government and plans a March meeting with the Health Ministry to discuss trends and potential responses.