EVENTS 

CGAP/MFMI Funder Training:  The next CGAP/MFMI Funder Training, "Building Inclusive Financial Systems: How Can Funders Make a Difference?", will be held in Kigali, Rwanda, November 10-14.

Virtual Conference on the Financial Crisis:  Join CGAP and industry experts at a Virtual Conference for a discussion on the effects and implications of the financial crisis on microfinance and poor people. November 18-20.

ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Mobile Banking for Poor People: Pioneer Perspectives:  By the end of 2008, the UN says there will be four billion mobile phone connections globally. Millions of air-time resellers and retail agents in developing countries make it possible to distribute financial services at far lower cost than through traditional channels. Join CGAP and its mobile banking partners to learn how they are overcoming challenges and using mobile phone banking to extend a range of financial services to poor people.

Microfinance investor institutions signed on to the Client Protection Principles:  While there is little evidence of substantial problems with regard to clients in the microfinance sector, these Principles represent a proactive effort to define minimum standards to safeguard the interests of vulnerable clients.

CGAP LATEST PUBLICATIONS

Islamic Microfinance: An Emerging Market Niche:  This Focus Note provides an overview of the current state of the Islamic microfinance sector and identifies possible challenges to its growth.

NGO MFI Transformations:  This brief reviews seven areas in which those embarking on a transformation should research and seek legal counsel’s advice.

Rural Connectivity Options for Microfinance Institutions:  This paper reviews possible limitations of connectivity solutions as they relate to MFI’s requirements.

Country-Level Savings Assessment Tool:  This Technical Guide explains the areas of analysis covered in a CLSA, the methodology used, and how the CLSA can be tailored to meet the needs of the commissioning agency.