Global Microfinance Investment Congress 2008

The growth of microfinance services over the past two decades has been dramatic. Currently, an active portfolio of USD 30 billion reaches over 150 million people; specialists envisage that this number could be multiplied by four within the next few years. Today, banks and others in the private sector are increasingly attracted to microfinance markets throughout the world. Future growth will require increased imbrications with traditional capital markets and the optimization of capital allocation to Microfinance Institutions will become an even more important component in preparing the sector for this next phase of growth.

For these reasons, PlaNet Finance has launched a cycle of specialized conferences, aimed at an audience of investors in the sector, entitled "Global Microfinance Investment Congress".

This first edition of the GMIC took place in Paris at the International Conference Centre "Centre International des Conférences" on the 21st and 22nd of January, thanks to Euroclear’s support. It gathered 300 of the most significant microfinance and international market actors.

The introduction was made by Bernard Kouchner, French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Philippe de Fontaine Vive, President of the EIB, Jacques Attali, President of PlaNet Finance and Pierre Francotte, Euroclear CEO. The Paris GMIC gathered more than 60 panellists internationally reputed in key topic areas such as capital investment, evaluation, microfinance investment strategy, and investment fund strategies.

Workshop on more far-reaching topics such as the evolution of MFI rating practices, or the impact of new technologies on microfinance, will enable the sharing of experiences and best practices.