Risk Management in Microfinance Institutions

Abstract

Microfinance is fast becoming a household name globally due to its acceptance as a means of reaching those that were not served by the conventional big banks. The survival of microfinance institutions in any country depends majorly on the overall political and economic environment of such a nation. However, the greatest challenge the microfinance institutions will face globally in pursuance of its financial intermediary role is how best to manage its credit and risk exposures in comparison with the rising competition, sophistication and turbulent economic and social environment especially in developing nations. After examining different concept of microfinance and risk management, this paper focus on those peculiar risks associated with microfinance business and suggested how regulators and operators in the sector can best guide against distress or imminent collapse while striking a balance between profitability and unhealthy risk exposure.