Abstract

ALVAREZ GONZALEZ, Evelina; HERNANDEZ ROMERO, Oliverio  and  VIVAR MIRANDA, Rufino. Development of the microfinance sector in Mexico: depth and breadth indicators 1996-2012. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2015, vol.6, n.1, pp.19-31. ISSN 2007-0934.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the development of the microfinance sector in Mexico from 1996-2012, using depth and breadth indicators in order to know about what levels of poverty are affecting the microfinance institutions and how is behaving the market of borrowers. The study was conducted with a sample of 120 Mexican MFIs. A methodology of quantitative analytical type with control and study groups was used; the variables considered in depth were: sex, loan size and location; for breadth: number of active borrowers. The results indicate that the levels of poverty on which are working the MFIs is low on its majority. As for the number of borrowers a positive growth can be seen, this makes clear the process of expansion and constant change of the sector. It can be concluded that MFIs as a tool have the potential to promote economic development in disadvantaged areas, in some cases and if used properly can succeed. However, it is still an area with many research lines pending in this context, the challenges facing the sector are numerous and their survival depend on them for years to come.

Keywords : breadth; depth; microfinance; poverty.