We conducted a study to examine how microenterprises in Bangladesh adopt digital platforms and what drives their participation. The research revealed that peer networks and platform representatives are crucial in the creation of awareness and trust. Retailers with prior digital experience usually onboard independently, whereas others depend on platform representatives for step-by-step guidance and to connect with new markets.
Indonesia continues to advance financial inclusion at a steady pace. The 2025 National Survey on Financial Literacy and Inclusion (SNLIK) reports that 80% of men and women now have access to formal financial services. This indicates a positive parity in financial access. However, this surface-level equality conceals structural disparities. Financial literacy, according to the SNLIK, remains comparatively low, with women’s literacy at 65% versus 67% for men. These numbers are even lower among informal workers and homemakers and range between 49% and 63%.
The G20 Empowerment of Women Working Group recognizes gender gaps in financial inclusion as a key concern, and the topic has now gained prominence in the broader G20 agenda. Indonesia’s Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (MoWECP) sought to support the Government of Indonesia’s meaningful participation in this dialogue. The MoWECP appointed MSC (MicroSave Consulting) to develop a policy note on women’s financial inclusion. The note will guide Indonesia’s delegation at the upcoming G20 2025 Summit in South Africa and inform evidence-based discussions to strengthen women’s financial health and well-being worldwide.
The 2024 G20 Summit in Brazil introduced financial health and well-being as key global priorities. This marked a shift from access-focused metrics toward outcome-driven indicators that reflect individuals’ ability to manage financial stress, build resilience, and achieve long-term stability. This policy note presents evidence-based recommendations that go beyond access and usage in alignment with the agenda. It focuses on outcomes that enhance women’s financial health and well-being.
The policy note is structured around four interconnected pillars:
The development process involved several stages, which included an extensive desk review, analysis of G20 members’ initiatives and policy priorities, and identification of international good practices. The paper underwent peer review by development partners such as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate (UN-SGSA), J-PAL Southeast Asia, and Women’s World Banking. It was further refined through consultations with key Indonesian stakeholders, such as the MoWECP, the Ministry of National Development Planning (BAPPENAS), the Bank of Indonesia, the Financial Service Authority (OJK), the National Islamic Finance Committee, Women20, Business20, and G20 EMPOWER representatives.
The final policy note provides strategic recommendations to strengthen women’s financial inclusion and financial health in Indonesia. It also highlights potential areas for collaboration through the G20 platform. MSC reaffirms its commitment to support the Government of Indonesia through this initiative in its efforts to advance inclusive financial systems that empower women and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Link to the policy note document in English: Policy Note G20
MSC conducted research in 17 emerging markets to uncover regional financial trends that affect women-owned microbusinesses. We developed the SCALE financial health framework to assess and improve the financial health of women-owned microbusinesses.
We launched the report during the Financial Inclusion Week (FIW) session on 9th October 2025, where we shared crucial findings that emphasize the need to move beyond access and focus on resilience and security. The discussion also underscored that gender-specific data drives innovation, financial health enhances risk protection, and holistic design supports household and business stability. Watch this video to learn more.
Written in collaboration with PayNearby, this whitepaper offers a data-driven roadmap for accelerating the journey from assisted digital payments to true financial inclusion. Drawing on field insights and national trends, it addresses access, digital literacy, trust, and infrastructure, and points out actionable ecosystem enablers to empower last-mile users toward sustainable digital adoption at scale.