16-year-old Indian finance professional recognised as world's youngest CA

Lakshmanan Meyyappan has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's youngest Chartered Accountant.(Image: Century Financial)Lakshmanan Meyyappan, an Indian research analyst at UAE-based investment firm Century Financial, has been recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s youngest Chartered Accountant.According to Century Financial, Meyyappan received the recognition in February 2026 at the age of 16 years and 141 days. The recognition followed his completion of the ACCA qualification, which he began after completing his Class 10 board examinations.Meyyappan started studying for the ACCA qualification during the Covid-19 pandemic. He completed the programme in about a year, beginning his studies at the age of 15."The youngest chartered accountant (male) is Meyyappan Lakshmanan (India b. 11 January 2005), who was 16 years and 170 days old when qualified, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 30 June 2021," reads Guiness World record site. Now, 21, based in Dubai, he works in investment research and financial market analysis. He later earned the CFA charter and is currently pursuing an MSc in Finance.Outside his work and studies, Meyyappan also designs and builds watches. Reflecting on his journey in a LinkedIn post, Meyyappan said that five years ago, he could not have imagined completing his Class 10 board examinations without feeling anxious.He said he was grateful to have since received both ACCA membership and the CFA charter.Meyyappan also noted that becoming an ACCA affiliate at 16 and completing all levels of the CFA by 18 still felt “surreal”, adding with humour that the Covid-19 lockdowns had turned out to be useful for his studies.LEARNING OVER SPEEDMeyyappan said achieving the record was not the main purpose behind pursuing his professional qualifications.“This milestone means a lot to me, but I have never approached qualifications as a race,” he said, as quoted by Khaleej Times.He said his focus was on understanding how finance works in practice and developing skills that could remain relevant over time.“When learning is driven by curiosity rather than speed, the outcome is far more meaningful,” he added.COMPANY POINTS TO EARLY CAREER DEVELOPMENTCentury Financial said Meyyappan’s journey reflects the role of focused learning and access to knowledge in developing careers in financial markets.The company, which has been operating in the UAE for more than 35 years, said it supports professional development through guidance, learning opportunities and market knowledge.Meyyappan’s career combines professional qualifications with work in investment research and analysis. His ongoing MSc in Finance adds another stage to his academic journey.His Guinness World Records recognition comes alongside his continuing work and studies in the financial sector.- EndsPublished By: Rishab ChauhanPublished On: Aug 16, 2026 19:49 IST