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Local credit in Brazil: The role of digital connectivity and education

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  • Norden, Lars
  • Ribeiro, Thiago

Abstract

We investigate the effects of digital connectivity and education on local credit to small businesses and individuals in Brazil, using multivariate panel data regression analysis. By examining how broadband access and basic education influence local credit, we aim to understand how these factors help to mitigate informational asymmetries and transaction costs. Our findings indicate that both higher digital connectivity and better educational levels are significantly associated with higher credit availability at the municipality and regional levels. We contribute to the broader discussion about financial inclusion and offer policy implications on how to improve access to credit in emerging economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Norden, Lars & Ribeiro, Thiago, 2025. "Local credit in Brazil: The role of digital connectivity and education," Emerging Markets Review, Elsevier, vol. 65(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ememar:v:65:y:2025:i:c:s1566014125000147
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ememar.2025.101265
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Credit; Digital connectivity; Education; Financial inclusion; Fintech;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G20 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - General
    • G32 - Financial Economics - - Corporate Finance and Governance - - - Financing Policy; Financial Risk and Risk Management; Capital and Ownership Structure; Value of Firms; Goodwill
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • O54 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Latin America; Caribbean

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