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Financial Inclusion and Economic Development : A Review of the Data and Evidence

Author

Listed:
  • Saniya Ansar
  • Leora Klapper
  • Dorothe Singer

Abstract

This paper reviews the impact of financial inclusion on economic development outcomes. It highlights the benefits of financial inclusion, including greater savings, improved resilience to economic shocks, and higher levels of economic empowerment, among others. It looks deeper into both the effects of financial inclusion on marginalized groups, like women and the poor, while also examining the impacts of different types of financial instruments, like digital payments and financial accounts. The paper further explores the role that government payment programs and regulatory actions can play in inducing greater financial inclusion, highlighting the need for more policies, products, and incentives to promote greater adoption of financial services for sustainable development.

Suggested Citation

  • Saniya Ansar & Leora Klapper & Dorothe Singer, 2025. "Financial Inclusion and Economic Development : A Review of the Data and Evidence," Policy Research Working Paper Series 11021, The World Bank.
    • Handle: RePEc:wbk:wbrwps:11021
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    References listed on IDEAS

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