Paper

The Microfinance Experience in Latin America and the Caribbean

An overview of microfinance in Latin America and comparisons with Asia
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This paper provides a snapshot of the microfinance experience in Latin America and compares the same with Asia on certain key performance indicators.

The paper briefly covers the following aspects:

  • Evolution of microfinance in Latin America and important trends in the industry;
  • Comparison of Latin American microfinance institutions with their Asian counterparts on certain key performance indicators;
  • Economic and social importance of the micro-enterprise sector in Latin America;
  • Evidence of inadequate credit for the Latin American micro-enterprises.

The paper concludes with a description of the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) support programs for the microfinance sector, in general, and for microfinance, in particular. Some of the key initiatives of IDB for micro-enterprises include:

  • Social entrepreneurship program;
  • Multilateral Investment fund;
  • Global micro-enterprise and credit programs;
  • Policy dialogue and dissemination of best practices.

About this Publication

By Ramirez, A.
Published