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Revisiting efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs): an application of network data envelopment analysis

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  • Mohammad Nourani
  • Nurhafiza Abdul Kader Malim
  • Md Aslam Mia

Abstract

In order to achieve financial inclusion objectives of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provide continuous financial support to the unbanked population, microfinance institutions (MFIs) must attain efficiency in their operations. Hence, the main purpose of this study is to examine various efficiencies of MFIs based on their goals and operational mechanisms. By utilizing a unique production process and network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) technique, we estimated three different types of efficiencies (operational, financial and outreach) of 90 MFIs from 2013 to 2018. It was discovered that the overall efficiency of the MFIs was not up to the required standard and it became even worse when the financial and social outreach efficiencies were considered. However, operational efficiency (ability to generate intermediaries) was relatively better and remained high among the regulated MFIs. On the contrary, the financial and social outreach efficiencies were found to be better among the unregulated MFIs. Moreover, our results also highlight the divergence in efficiency between regions, legal status and regulatory environment; with projection analysis suggesting a simultaneous reduction in input, and an increase in output of inefficient MFIs to facilitate their attainment of efficiency. Policy implications are subsequently discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Mohammad Nourani & Nurhafiza Abdul Kader Malim & Md Aslam Mia, 2021. "Revisiting efficiency of microfinance institutions (MFIs): an application of network data envelopment analysis," Economic Research-Ekonomska Istraživanja, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 34(1), pages 1146-1169, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:reroxx:v:34:y:2021:i:1:p:1146-1169
    DOI: 10.1080/1331677X.2020.1819853
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    Cited by:

    1. José L. Fernández Sánchez & María D. Odriozola & Elisa Baraibar‐Diez, 2024. "How the method for delivering loans impacts on the economic efficiency of microfinance institutions," Global Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, vol. 15(S1), pages 92-102, March.
    2. Blanco-Oliver, A.J. & Irimia-Diéguez, A.I. & Vázquez-Cueto, M.J., 2023. "Is there an optimal microcredit size to maximize the social and financial efficiencies of microfinance institutions?," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 65(C).
    3. Qian, Yu & Xu, Zeshui & Qin, Yong & Gou, Xunjie & Skare, Marinko, 2023. "Measuring the varying relationships between sustainable development and oil booms in different contexts: An empirical study," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 85(PB).
    4. C. Adegboye*, Abidemi, 2023. "Financial Market Environment And Efficiency Of Microfinance Banks In Nigerial," Ilorin Journal of Economic Policy, Department of Economics, University of Ilorin, vol. 10(1), pages 1-14, June.

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