The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta hosts national financial literacy competition for teens

June 3, 2026 - 01:40

Arhan Barve stood in a gray suit and white button-up shirt, looking every bit the seasoned financial advisor. He and his teammates were presenting a detailed savings and investment plan to a panel of judges. But Barve is not a Wall Street executive. He is a high school student competing in a national financial literacy competition hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

The event brought together teens from across the country to test their knowledge of budgeting, credit, investing, and long-term financial planning. Teams spent months preparing real-world scenarios, from managing student loans to building retirement portfolios. The competition aimed to close a persistent gap in American education: most states still do not require a standalone personal finance course for graduation.

Barve's team focused on a hypothetical family's financial turnaround, showing how disciplined saving and smart investment choices could build wealth over time. Judges asked tough questions about risk tolerance and market volatility. The teens answered with confidence, citing compound interest and diversification strategies.

Organizers said the event was not just about winning a trophy. It was about building a generation of financially literate adults who can avoid debt traps and make informed decisions. For Barve, the experience was personal. He said he now checks his own savings account daily and has started teaching younger siblings about budgeting.

The competition has grown each year, reflecting a broader push by the Federal Reserve and other organizations to make financial education a priority in schools.