Don't Just
Ask the Experts
Research is a central activity of the Foundation. Of course, we're eager to hear from expert bodies. It's important that we understand their constraints, problems and views on how we address the changing needs of an increasingly connected world. But equally vital, if not more so, are the challenges and priorities of the people most affected by the obstacles to safer, fairer financial inclusion.
We work pro-actively, approaching communities, corporate bodies, regulators and government, but we're also keen to hear from and support universities, schools and individuals who are interested in carrying out their own studies.
This page will show news on current studies, invitations to participate and a dedicated contact form for your suggestions and questions related to relevant research.
What's stopping you?
Complete a quick survey to tell us the problems you're facing
We're eager to understand the obstacles and frustrations facing small businesses in regions where it's difficult to access international payments. To help gather data we've developed a simple on-line survey. If you're in an affected region, we'd very much like to hear from you. The survey should take no more than five minutes of your time, and all of your answers are secure, confidential, and can't be linked back to you.
Take the Survey
Become an EPF Researcher
If you're interested in volunteering, either personally or on behalf of an organisation, to conduct research into financial inclusion topics, then use the form below to introduce yourself and start a dialogue.
Selected Research
A selection of papers from authoritative sources
Financial Inclusion in Africa: An Overview
By Asli Demirgüç-Kunt and Leora Klapper
While the overall picture of financial inclusion has improved over much of Africa, more remains to be done. Less than a quarter of adults have a formal account with a financial institution. Meanwhile, SMEs report access to finance to be a major obstacle.
Read the White Paper
Financial inclusion report 2018-19 (UK)
HM Treasury/Department for Work and Pensions
Financial isolation isn't confined to emerging regions. Even in established countries like the UK, sectors of society can find themselves cut off from banking and affordable credit. This study by HM Treasury and DWP examines the current situation and outlines initiatives to improve inclusion.
Read the White Paper
Global Trends in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM)
International Institute for Sustainable Development
Artisanal mining presents serious problems, both in environmental damage and the exploitation of its workers. But it also provides a vital income stream to millions of people who would otherwise be condemned to poverty. This study provides important background to our article on the future for artisanal gold miners.
Read the White Paper
Counter-terrorism, bank de-risking and humanitarian response: a path forward
Stuart Gordon and Sherine El Taraboulsi-McCarthy
While robust measures are vital to counter money-laundering and funding of terrorism, the human cost of heightened diligence means that the widespread cure may be more damaging than the disease. EPF believes that sound alternatives to de-risking are urgently required, and may already exist. This paper details four relevant case studies.
Read the White Paper
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in AML and KYC
Infosys
One of the principal drivers fuelling financial de-risking is the rising cost of compliance, particularly in the areas of AML and KYC. This paper, produced by Infosys, looks at how automated systems can reduce this obstacle.
Read the White Paper
Note that all external content referenced from this site reflects the views of its authors, not necessarily those of Ethical Payments Foundation CIC. Though we make these papers available in good faith, we make no guarantee that their information is accurate.
