Heads of microfinance institutions (MFIs) emphasize the difficulty in lowering interest rates without access to cheaper funds, suggesting a dedicated credit guarantee scheme or refinance facility. With current rates between 21% and 24%, there is regulatory pressure to reduce them. Alternatives include revamping existing credit guarantee schemes and introducing an interest subvention scheme.
US stocks today: US stocks end higher as investors turn to earnings season
US markets ended higher with the S&P 500 near record levels, driven by SK Hynix’s strong Nasdaq debut and renewed momentum in AI-linked chip stocks.