Searching: Research & Analysis

SmartAid Index 2014

This Technical Guide is aimed at funders interested in analyzing their effectiveness in financial inclusion. It describes the methodology of the SmartAid Index and explains how to use SmartAid.

AFD Group SmartAid Report 2013

Once considered a failing activity within its rural and agriculture operations, microfinance at AFD has become an integral focus area within the financial sector development program, supported by a strong team of technical experts.

The Art of the Responsible Exit in Microfinance Equity Sales

This paper seeks to explore the concept of a responsible exit along four strategic decisions: the timing of the equity sale, buyer selection, the governance and use of shareholder agreements to achieve social objectives, and how social and financial returns are balanced when selecting among bids.

Portfolio Reviews: Resource Guide for Funders

This Technical Guide presents the portfolio review as an evaluation method that can help funders learn from what they fund.

Branchless Banking in Pakistan: A Laboratory for Innovation

This Brief highlights key challenges and opportunities that are likely to shape the branchless banking market in Pakistan in the near term.

Advancing Savings Services: Resource Guide for Funders

This resource guide is intended to gather in one source the issues funders need to consider when focusing on the expansion of voluntary savings mobilizations.

The Role of Funders in Responsible Finance

This Brief addresses the recent movement toward responsible finance, which has shaped the industry's belief that financial service providers have a responsibility to deliver financial services in a way that is transparent, fair, safe, and likely to generate benefits for poor clients.

Emerging Lessons of Public Funders in Branchless Banking

This paper highlights emerging lessons from the public funders that have been engaged in branchless banking. The goal is to help other funders consider the role they might play in this area. Branchless banking offers the potential to fundamentally transform the way low-income clients can access financial services.

Microfinance Investment Vehicles Disclosure Guidelines

The purpose of this publication is to establish clear guidelines for MIVs reporting to investors. The recommended disclosures include key information on MIVs’ profiles.

Performance-Based Agreements

This Technical Guide presents the rationale for the use of performance-based agreements and suggests ways to incorporate performance-based targets and incentives into existing loan and grant agreements.