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The impacts of intellectual capital of microfinance institutions on poverty alleviation

Author

Listed:
  • Chi Tung Luong

    (Foreign Trade University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

  • Van Thi Cam Ho

    (Foreign Trade University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

  • Chi Thi Ha Dang

    (Foreign Trade University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

  • Anh Dinh Tuan Vu

    (Foreign Trade University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

Abstract

This study examines the impact of Intellectual Capital (IC) on poverty alleviation using a panel dataset of 3,114 Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) across 120 countries from 2009 - 2018. Intellectual capital is measured using the Value Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC), which comprises Human Capital Efficiency (HCE), Structural Capital Efficiency (SCE), and relational Capital Efficiency (CEE). The study adopts the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) as the primary estimation technique to address potential endogeneity and dynamic relationships. The findings indicate that overall intellectual capital positively and significantly affects poverty alleviation. However, the impacts of its components are mixed. While relational capital contributes positively to poverty reduction, human capital shows no statistically significant effect, and structural capital efficiency unexpectedly displays a negative association with poverty mitigation. As a result, rather than merely expanding human capital, emphasis should be placed on skill specialization to improve efficiency. Additionally, fostering gradual technological adoption and facilitating knowledge-sharing can help optimize structural capital deployment, ultimately enhancing poverty reduction outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Chi Tung Luong & Van Thi Cam Ho & Chi Thi Ha Dang & Anh Dinh Tuan Vu, 2025. "The impacts of intellectual capital of microfinance institutions on poverty alleviation," HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF SCIENCE - ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF SCIENCE, HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY, vol. 15(5), pages 169-186.
    • Handle: RePEc:bjw:econen:v:15:y:2025:i:5:p:169-186
    DOI: 10.46223/HCMCOUJS.econ.en.15.5.4154.2025
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • I32 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Measurement and Analysis of Poverty
    • O34 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Intellectual Property and Intellectual Capital

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