Financial Inclusion Data and Indicators

With a growing global interest in measuring financial inclusion, a number of global financial organizations have developed a number of indicators related to measuring the level of financial inclusion at state level to be compared to other countries and to follow global trends in this regard. These indicators have two main sources: supply-side data, which can be obtained through regulators responsible for relevant sectors, and demand-side data, which can be obtained through the implementation of relevant field surveys.

In order to achieve the Palestinian national vision that Palestine Monetary Authority seeks to achieve, namely, financial stability and economic growth in Palestine, financial inclusion rates are being strengthened through the development of the Palestinian financial sector to meet the financial needs of citizens, integrate as many of them into the formal financial system, and protect their financial rights. This contributes to improving living conditions, promoting the social well-being of citizens and reducing poverty and unemployment rates.

Palestine Monetary Authority has developed indicators to measure levels of financial inclusion, specifically those related to the banking financial sector and electronic payment services. The importance of these indicators comes as a key reference for measuring the progress made in implementing the National Financial Inclusion Strategy Action Plan in Palestine, which is based on three main dimensions: access to and use of financial services and products, and the level of financial capacity of citizen.