This paper reports on the microfinance program of Hatton National Bank Limited (HNB), the largest private commercial bank in Sri Lanka. It reviews the experience of HNB, which has initiated a program offering financial services to the poor while continuing its traditional business operations.

This paper uses international cross-sectional and time-series infrastructure bond risk premium and credit rating history data from the past decade to examine the factors that influence investor risk perceptions and that inflate the cost of borrowing for essential infrastructure. The information...

The pharmaceutical industry is unique because of a close connection between knowledge and final product. As the quintessential science-based industry, pharmaceuticals depend heavily on high level manpower and substantial R&D for innovation. Because these requirements are costly, the industry is...

This study of six industries in eight economies examined the role in building industrial technological capability played by outside sources particularly technology institutions (TIs) such as research and standards organizations and by directed policies such as tax incentives. It concluded that...

Examines how the World Bank Group should harness the information revolution for its mission of poverty alleviation and sustainable economic development. The paper discusses the information revolution, its significance for economies and societies as a whole, the needs of and opportunities for...

Scientific and technological knowledge is increasingly recognized as a keystone of economic growth and social development. This paper reviews the main components of policy reform strategies designed to increase the efficiency of investments in science and techbology, with specific reference to...