Common Cents with BOJ: How Jamaica's New Financial Literacy TV Series Is Changing Lives

Imagine sitting in your living room in Kingston, Portmore, or Montego Bay, and having a financial expert explain - in plain Jamaican terms - exactly how to budget your pay cheque, manage credit card debt, or start saving for the future. That is precisely what the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) is making a reality with its new televised series, Common Cents with BOJ.

A Series Born from Real Data

The initiative didn't emerge from thin air. BOJ's own financial inclusion research revealed a striking pattern: while 77.2% of Jamaican adults now have access to at least one formal financial product, many are not using these services to their full potential. Surveys showed that Jamaicans rank comparatively low when it comes to actually using financial products like pensions, insurance, mortgages, and digital payments - even when access exists.

"When we conduct our surveys, we find that Jamaica actually ranks quite high in terms of access to financial products, but comparatively low when it comes to the use of those products," said BOJ Senior Deputy Governor Dr. Wayne Robinson. The barrier, in other words, is no longer just infrastructure - it is behaviour, attitude, and trust.

What Common Cents with BOJ Covers

The 11-episode series is structured around the financial topics where BOJ's data shows Jamaicans need the most support. Each episode will tackle one specific theme, presented in clear, relatable language - no financial jargon, no confusing fine print. Topics include:

• Budgeting your household income effectively

• Savings strategies - from bank accounts to investment options

• Managing and understanding credit scores and debt

• Navigating digital payments safely

• Understanding your rights as a financial consumer

• Insurance and pension planning for the future

The series of episodes were developed in partnership with Adtelligent advertising agency, resulting in 11 infomercial videos, promotional trailers, and social media content designed to reach Jamaicans across all platforms.

Not Just TV - A Game for the Next Generation

Alongside Common Cents with BOJ, the BOJ also announced the launch of BOJ MoneyQuest - an interactive financial education game designed for students in grades 4 to 6. Built by technology firm Database Technologies, the game uses quizzes, puzzles, trivia and simulated financial challenges to teach children about earning, saving, budgeting, and distinguishing needs from wants.

"We've had beta testing with schools from around the country. We're trying to leverage the power of play, help children to develop these habits, confidence and financial skills that will serve them for life," said Dr. André Murray, Head of the BOJ's Financial Inclusion Unit.

BOJ MoneyQuest is set for a broader national rollout in October 2026, supported by the Ministry of Education.

The Bigger Picture: NFIS Pillars of Access, Education, and Trust

BOJ Governor Richard Byles underscored that Common Cents with BOJ and BOJ MoneyQuest are central pillars of Jamaica's National Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS). "Financial literacy must move from being an option to being essential. Jamaicans must not only have access to services; they should understand how to use them wisely," Byles stated.

Since the BOJ's first financial inclusion campaign in 2019, there has been measurable progress - more small businesses engaging with formal banks, greater awareness of savings and credit products, and improved financial planning. But with 22.8% of Jamaican adults still outside the formal financial system, the urgency has not diminished. Common Cents with BOJ is the BOJ's commitment to bridge that gap, one episode at a time.

"Every Jamaican, regardless of background or circumstance, should have access to safe, affordable and convenient financial services." - Governor Richard Byles, Bank of Jamaica

What You Can Do Right Now

Whether you are already financially included or still navigating your first bank account, Common Cents with BOJ is designed for you. Follow the series on BOJ's official television channels and social media platforms.

Share episodes with family members who might benefit. And if you have school-age children, look out for the BOJ MoneyQuest game rollout in October 2026 - it could be the foundation of their financial future.

Financial literacy is not a luxury - it is the foundation of a stronger Jamaica.