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From the Chair
01.12.2001
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From the Chair
01.09.2001
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From the Chair
01.06.2001
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From the Chair
01.03.2001
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From the Chair
01.12.2000
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From the Chair
01.09.2000
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From the Chair
01.06.2000
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Microenterprise and small business leasing - lessons from Pakistan
01.09.1999
Although not well known in poorer countries, evidence from Network Leasing Corporation in Pakistan and from elsewhere suggests that leasing may well have a significant part to play in enabling micro and small enterprises (MSEs) to buy equipment which would otherwise be unavailable to them. Experience so far suggests that leasing is particularly useful for small and larger microenterprises, but the potential for reaching subsistence enterprises is still to be explored and remains untested. This article seeks to answer four questions: What is MSE leasing? Why is MSE leasing of particular interest? What is the experience of Network Leasing Corporation? What is the further potential for MSE leasing? -
Information systems for microfinancial services
01.03.1999
There is a growing awareness of the significance of information to microfinance institutions. Poor information systems have an impact on every aspect of an institution's performance, from operational effectiveness to strategic management. A world-wide survey has been carried out of the information systems currently in use by microfinance institutions, with the aim of discovering whether there were packages available, not yet widely known in the market, which might offer solutions for other institutions. The results so far tend to confirm a number of weaknesses in the sector. Many institutions do not appear to have a strong understanding of information technology and have relatively poor information systems as a consequence. The market for products aimed specifically at microfinance is generally weak, contributing to the problem. No previously unknown packages have been identified at this stage, though a few products merit further investigation. It is suggested that stakeholders in the sector need to look at mechanisms for strengthening this market as a means of improving information systems in microfinance institutions. -
Taking Stock
01.12.1998