Financial Capability and Inclusion in Haiti : Result of a Demand-Side Survey

Financial capability, as defined by the World Bank Group (WBG) in this report, is the capacity to act in one's best financial interest, given socioeconomic and environmental conditions. Improving financial capabilities has become a priority for policy makers seeking to promote financial inclusion, financial stability, and the smooth functioning of financial markets. In response to a request from the Central Bank of Haiti (Banque Centrale de la Republique d'Haiti) (BRH), the World Bank has conducted a financial capability and inclusion survey. The BRH has identified the low levels of financial capabilities and financial inclusion as priority areas for reform. This survey constitutes a key diagnostic tool that aims to guide the authorities in developing a detailed implementation action plan for improving financial capability and inclusion levels. The report covers following main areas: chapter one provides a brief overview of the methodology used and the composition of the sample. Chapter two assesses the level of financial inclusion in Haiti, including a more detailed look at the uptake of individual products, and chapter three assesses varies aspects of financial capability in Haiti. Chapter four summarizes the findings and makes recommendations for the development of an action plan for financial education