IFC and Mastercard have launched a research report providing insight into the case for Digital Financial Services (DFS) and financial projections from nine microfinance institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. The four-year study includes a set of best practice financial modeling benchmarks that can be used as a valuable guide for financial institutions implementing DFS. 

The report defined income and expenses for a DFS, including key elements for an implementation process and financial model. Key lessons from the report include:

• Importance of a planning stage
• Utilizing financial modeling exercises
• The potential to mobilize savings
• Enlarging direct channel revenues with clever product and service offering