2008 MIX Global 100 Composite: Rankings of Microfinance Institutions

The MIX Global 100 Composite Ranking presents a comparative study of MFI performance based on a number of criteria. It comprises 100 leading, most well rounded, high performing institutions in the sector.

MFIs are screened for profitability and ranked in three areas, namely, outreach, efficiency, and transparency. While each of these three attributes is viewed as a goal in microfinance, this ranking measures the balance achieved by individual MFIs.

The criteria in the study reflect the delicate balance MFIs have to strike between operational performance and service to the poor. Some highlights of the ranking are:

• MFIs from South Asia, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) rank higher;
• India is the only country with 10 or more MFIs in the ranking;
• Banks score proportionately better than institutions of other charter types;
• Mature institutions with more than 10 years experience dominate the list;
• Efficiency remains a challenge for MFIs in the composite ranking;
• Top 100 MFIs show improved results in many performance areas, including outreach;
• Many MFIs have moved rankings between 2007 and 2008.