Why Financial Development & Financial Inclusion MicroMasters?

The link between financial development and sustainable economic growth is complex. The complexity of the relationship between financial development and economic growth requires an assessment of the factors affecting the relationship to determine the most effective policies. In this MicroMasters, we provide you with the various factors determining financial development in terms of the structure of the financial sector, its contribution to the economy, and financial inclusion in developing countries.

The course presents a framework for financial market development, identifying the main players and instruments, as well as highlighting the obstacles that could impede the development of such markets as well as policies that encourage the development of financial markets. The course introduces financial inclusion as an integral dimension of financial development—a perspective that has only recently received attention. The course reviews the indicators currently used to measure financial inclusion, its macroeconomic impact, and the main policy strategies usually pursued to encourage inclusion. The course makes use of extensive case studies, group work, and workshops to ensure that participants gain practical experience that is useful for their jobs.

Through this comprehensive MicroMasters, you will identify a framework for financial market development and financial inclusion and why they matter to economic growth and development. Measure the degree of financial development and inclusion for a country or countries using a wide range of standard indicators, and use benchmarking to compare a country to its peers.