Review of MAGI Assessment Experiences in South East Asia: November 2003-September 2004

This report consolidates the key results of assessment of 11 partner MFIs of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) during the period 2003 to 2004. The assessment was part of the process of accreditation in Microfinance Alliance for Global Impact (MAGI), an alliance of high performing microfinance partners of CRS.

The report profiles the MFIs and examines their outreach, staff productivity, product and service quality, financial performance and management, governance and ownership, equity, planning and organization and human resources. Findings include:

• MFIs have succeeded in reaching out to poor clients;
• MFIs are cost efficient in delivering credit to borrowers;
• Most of the MFIs have achieved 100 percent operational self-sufficiency and are profitable;
• Majority of the MFIs are under leveraging their equities, which implies that their operations can be expanded further.

The report identifies common challenges faced by the MFIs and suggests areas for institutional strengthening.