Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/46019 
Year of Publication: 
2010
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 5159
Publisher: 
Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
This paper investigates a relationship between economic governance and the dual objectives of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs): poverty reduction and financial viability. Using an unbalanced panel of 531 MFIs the important role of other institutions such as country-level business registry departments in facilitating targeting of poor clients is illuminated. Comparing the estimates of Hausman-Taylor and Fixed Effects Vector Decomposition allows us to scrutinize and at least partially correct the effects of both time invariant and slow changing endogenous variables. We find that credit information availability and lesser time in securing property enhances the chances of MFIs in achieving their poverty reduction objective. Product diversification leading to economies of scope also enables MFIs to reach poor clients. On the basis of the above, it is imperative for government and development partners to channel their efforts towards provision of an enabling atmosphere that will enhance the achievement of microfinance social objectives.
Subjects: 
microfinance
dual objectives
economic governance
property rights
credit information
JEL: 
G21
G39
L20
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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