Economies with digitally enabled financial systems are experiencing the most rapid advancement in financial inclusion. Thus, companies in the industry, including digital payment providers, should prioritize digitally underserved regions in their global development efforts to improve fair financial access worldwide.
Based on the 14th annual Global Financial Access Survey (FAS) by the International Monetary Fund, financial access proved resilient amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Microfinance institutions notably supported vulnerable segments, while traditional touchpoints declined in favour of surging digital payments. This trend, propelled by digital financial services, contributed to sustained levels of inclusion in 2022.