Public policy for financial inclusion

The central theme of this chapter is a wide range of public policy measures and regulation that can contribute to minimising the various barriers to financial inclusion. However, to be effective these need to be set within the context of the wider regulatory regime encompassing the core components of systemic stability, the safety and soundness of financial institutions, and conduct of business regulation for consumer protection. As trust and confidence in financial institutions and the financial system are needed if financial inclusion is to be enhanced, a holistic approach is required, and specific measures designed to enhance financial inclusion need to be regarded as part of the overall regulatory regime.