Research Projects

The Council leads and participates in highly topical, forward-looking research studies, as well as ad hoc and ongoing projects, that provide value to both members and the industry. Through these initiatives, it endeavors to articulate and disseminate the CMEF members’ knowledge and expertise about microfinance and investing. 

Initiatives have included, but are not limited to the following:

• Council Compensation Study: The CMEF has hired a consulting firm to conduct the first-ever comprehensive compensation study for equity MIVs.  Data has been collected from each Council member regarding base and incentive pay, and has been aggregated and analyzed. 
  
  
• 2009 Banana Skins in Microfinance: For the second year in a row, the CMEF has been asked to collaborate with Citi, CGAP and CSFI on the Banana Skins in Microfinance report. The 2008 results and key “take-aways” from a number of roundtable discussions are available on the Citi website. 
  
  

• Capitalization Strategy for MFIs in 2009: The CMEF has conducted a survey of CMEF members and their investee MFIs, examining the effects that the downturn in the global economy has had on the capitalization of MFIs. In addition, the study looked at the capitalization strategies that MFIs pursue, in order to effectively deal with the financial situation and/or take advantage of the opportunities it may present. The study’s findings draw on the results of a questionnaire filled out by the management of approximately 70 MFIs, as well as interviews with Council members and other industry experts.