Blog

What Drives MFI Efficiency?

Institutional efficiency is generally measured by dividing operating expenses by the size of the loan portfolio. A given MFI is usually regarded as having become more efficient when this indicator gets lower.

How Sustainable is Microfinance, Really?

Lots of MFIs are now drawing billions (really!) in investment from microfinance investment funds that are dominated, not by development agencies, but by investors who are not willing to accept anything below a fully commercial risk-return profile.

New CGAP Paper: Banking through Networks of Retail Agents

This Focus Note considers the issues, challenges, and opportunities of banking through networks of retail agents.

Why Has M-PESA Become So Popular in Kenya?

Despite the cash float problems, the majority of customers in both the urban and rural areas assert that they prefer M-PESA over other money transfer services. This means that M-PESA must be offering them some kind of substantial benefit.

New CGAP Paper Explores the Power of Shared Agent Networks

This Focus Note presents an alternative, systemic approach to branchless banking in which there is no need for a bank to have a contractual relationship with any of the retail outlets through which it is absorbing deposits or meeting liquidity needs of its customers.