Based in Nairobi, William Cook focuses on payments, financial market infrastructure, and digital business models. Before joining CGAP, William held a variety of roles in financial services, including six years with Ernst & Young LLP in the organization’s advisory and audit practices.
William is a Certified Public Accountant. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, and a Master’s Degree in Information Systems and Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Michigan State University.
By William Cook
Blog
Financial Services Amid Crisis: Resilience and Reconstruction in Gaza and West Bank
FSPs in the West Bank & Gaza face unprecedented challenges amid the ongoing crisis, with Gaza's situation changing daily. Eventual stability will bring a flow of aid, making it crucial to support & rebuild the financial sector for future development.Research
From Crisis to Resilience: The Role of Inclusive Finance in Fragile Countries
Inclusive finance can bolster resilience and unlock opportunities for low-income people in fragile countries. CGAP identifies three levers of change for funders: leveraging humanitarian cash transfers, understanding informal financial services, and improving local market facilitation.Blog
Navigating Compound Crises: Microfinance Learnings From Lebanon
Lebanon has faced a recent string of compounding crises, crippling GDP and decimating the Lebanese currency. Al Majmoua MFI survived the freefall and offers valuable insights into the diversity of measures that can be taken in the face of crisis.Blog
Inclusive CBDCs: Inflated Expectations or A New Productivity?
Where will central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) land on the Gartner Hype Cycle? Are they full of inflated expectations, or a new tool for greater financial inclusion? We explore where CBDCs might provide at least incremental gains.Research