India’s present growth rate for its microfinance sector has been recorded at 130 percent, with prospects of continued growth and increased demand in coming years. Microfinance Institutions (MFI) in India have been responsible for Rs 10,000 crore (approx. USD 2.23 billion) in loans to low-income individuals and small businesses. Currently a sector consisting of about 135 MFI’s throughout the country, the government of India has begun introducing tighter norms for the capital adequacy ratios (CAR) of its microfinance lenders, which are expected to be enacted within the coming year. Continue Reading »

Jamaica is experiencing an economic turnaround from its past financial problems. After almost a decade of stagnation, Jamaica’s economy is showing signs of revival. Growth briefly resumed in the country before being hampered somewhat by the external shocks of hurricanes Dean (2007) and Gustav (2008). GDP increased by 1.5% from 2004 to 2006, and inflation has also been steadily decreasing since. Although the natural disasters shocked large parts of the economy, especially in agriculture, the country still shows signs of a progressive economic trend. A number of additional factors, both external and within Jamaica’s private sector and institutions not only contribute to its growing economy, they also form an environment that is very conducive to the creation of small enterprises. Continue Reading »