As the communities most affected by the recent devastating tsunami courageously begin to rebuild their lives, microfinance institutions (MFIs) can play a powerful part in the path to recovery. Since the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, MFIs have been tirelessly providing and coordinating...

"Financial sector development fosters economic growth and reduces poverty by widening and broadening access to finance and allocating society's savings more efficiently. The author first discusses three pillars on which sound and efficient financial systems are built: macroeconomic stability and...

Cover -- Contents -- Foreword -- Acknowledgments -- Abbreviations and Glossary -- Overview -- 1 Conceptual Framework, Stylized Facts, and the Role of the Government -- 2 The Use of Long-Term Finance by Firms and Households: Determinants and Impact -- 3 The Use of Markets for Long-Term Finance --...

Several countries such as Japan, Brazil, Thailand and Turkey have achieved universal health coverage (UHC) and are proof of how UHC programs can serve as vital mechanisms for improving the health and welfare of the country's citizens. The UHC strives to ensure that no family is forced into...