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How socially sustainable multinational banks promote financial inclusion in developing countries

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  • Ubeda, Fernando
  • Mendez, Alvaro
  • Forcadell, Francisco Javier
  • López, Belén

Abstract

This paper investigates the impact of multinational banks (MNBs) implementing socially sustainable practices on financial inclusion in developing countries. We argue that the specific characteristics of the MNBs, when combined with socially sustainable practices, contribute to building trust and reducing risks in developing countries where they operate. This positive externality causes improvements for the underprivileged in three dimensions of financial inclusion: their demand for bank accounts, their propensity to save, and their access to credit. A sample of 152 multinational banks in 32 developing countries and 37,952 individuals proves the positive effect of sustainable practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Ubeda, Fernando & Mendez, Alvaro & Forcadell, Francisco Javier & López, Belén, 2024. "How socially sustainable multinational banks promote financial inclusion in developing countries," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 124260, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:124260
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    ESG criteria; sustainable banking; financial inclusion; multinational banks; SDGs; social sustainability;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • O16 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Financial Markets; Saving and Capital Investment; Corporate Finance and Governance

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