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Poverty and wellbeing impacts of microfinance: What do we know?

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  • Mathilde Maîtrot
  • Miguel Niño-Zarazúa

Abstract

Over the last 35 years, microfinance has been generally regarded as an effective policy tool in the fight against poverty. Yet, the question of whether access to credit leads to poverty reduction and improved wellbeing remains open. To address this question, we conduct a systematic review of the quantitative literature of microfinance's impacts in the developing world, and develop a theory of change that links inputs to impacts on several welfare outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Mathilde Maîtrot & Miguel Niño-Zarazúa, 2017. "Poverty and wellbeing impacts of microfinance: What do we know?," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2017-190, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2017-190
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