The Foundation, partner of the 1st edition of the Impact Finance Barometer

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation is a partner in the first edition of the Impact Finance Barometer, launched at the Zero Exclusion, Zero Carbon, Zero Poverty Global Forum on September 2, 2021. This publication, coordinated by Convergences, is the result of a collaborative effort bringing together impact finance experts, analysts, investors, and microfinance institutions. It compares different visions of impact investing and financial inclusion around the world.

With the theme "financing social and environmental transitions," this Barometer presents key figures from the sector and the levers for developing inclusive finance that serves people and the planet. How can funding be redirected toward an impactful project? How can investors and project leaders connect? Is there a common measure of impact?

This edition also looks back at the challenge of financial inclusion in the face of the Covid-19 crisis, and in particular the impact of this crisis on microfinance institutions.

Edouard Sers, Director of Risks & Impact at the Foundation, spoke on this subject at the 3Zero World Forum:

“The Covid-19 crisis has had a significant impact on the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation’s partner microfinance institutions (MFIs), an impact that should be nuanced depending on the region and the countries affected. The two main financial consequences of the crisis have been a generalized increase in credit risk, which has impacted profitability (especially in 2020) and, consequently, an impact on equity. At the beginning of the year, 60% of the MFIs surveyed thought they needed new equity. By mid-2021, the latest surveys we conducted show that one in five MFIs is still looking for a solution to adequately recapitalize. On the other hand, there has been no widespread liquidity crisis, and despite the loss of profitability for many, the sector has generally demonstrated responsibility by maintaining jobs. We therefore remain optimistic given the sector’s great resilience. In order to support its partners, the Foundation continues to develop its financing and technical assistance offerings.” It also regularly shares the findings of its Covid-19 Observatory based on surveys conducted in partnership with ADA And Inpulse to collect the feelings of the actors on the ground.

Discover the Barometer here .

Discover the report from the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation: “The impact of the Covid-19 crisis on microfinance institutions. Findings and perspectives” ".