Publication

This publication assesses the claim that microfinance is a tool for the empowerment of women in developing countries. In order to do so, the authors examine whether access to an individually-held commitment savings product leads to an increase in female decision-making power within the household. The publication finds positive impacts, particularly for women who have below-median decision-making power in the baseline. The authors furthermore argue that a shift toward female-oriented durable goods purchased in the household is observable.