Promoting Inclusive Financial Markets

Over 1.5 billion people at the base of the global economic pyramid need access to financial services, yet an estimated 90% of this demand remains unmet. How can mainstream financial players unlock the potential of financial services for the poor?

While microfinance has proven its ability to empower micro-entrepreneurs around the world, the sector must overcome bottlenecks and become grounded in a rigorous institutional framework to continue attracting investment flows from the private sector.

In turn, mainstream private actors need to become actively involved in developing and promoting innovative solutions for inclusive financial markets. In so doing, they will not only contribute to sustainable macroeconomic growth, stability and poverty reduction, but also foster new market opportunities.

The World Microfinance Forum Geneva:

Private sector-led promotion of inclusive financial markets

The World Microfinance Forum Geneva promotes inclusive financial markets, drawing in particular on the expertise and active involvement of the private sector in four main areas:

From Niche Market to Mainstream Connecting microfinance to financial markets and strengthening institutions is the way to unleash the supply of microfinance. From Microcredit to Comprehensive Financial Services Providing a comprehensive range of financial services to a broad range of clients is essential to ensuring financial inclusion. From Micro-jobs to Flourishing SME sectors Supporting value-creating jobs and strong small- and medium enterprises is the key to sustainable development. From Informal Business to Economic and Legal Empowerment Supporting the development of effective framework conditions for microfinance providers and their clients, including property rights, is important for boosting and promoting emerging and maturing markets.

Key activities of the Forum include organizing biennial international symposia in Geneva and local events in regions with a high potential for private-sector engagement in inclusive finance, and unique events for investors in microfinance in 2009.

International symposium: Geneva, October 1-2, 2008

Building Fair Financial Markets for All
Profitable Investment Opportunities in
Micro and Small Businesses

Microfinance in China: Beijing, February 27, 2008

Inclusive Access to Financial Services in China:
Challenges and Opportunities

To promote the understanding of inclusive financial markets as an effective approach towards poverty reduction and development as well as an exciting business opportunity for the private sector, we commission original research papers on important trends and issues relevant for the engagement of private-sector actors. In 2008, our focus is on microfinance in China.