Title: Transformation and sustainability relationship in Indian microfinance institutions

Authors: Ambika Prasad Pati

Addresses: Department of Commerce, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, Meghalaya, 793022, India

Abstract: In India microfinance industry during the last two decades has witnessed several metamorphoses. Transformation in legal status, maturity and capital structure are prominent among them. As evidences from other economies reveal some relationship of transformation variables with sustainability parameters of MFIs it is also expected in the case of India. In line with global literature this paper tries to explore relationship between transformation and sustainability. Regression analysis of panel data based on ten years' time frame reveals significant relationship. Regulatory changes have helped MFIs to remain sustainable but with a compromise in the size of loan which gives a sign of departure from the social obligations. Regulated and matured MFIs tend to extend higher size loans which indicate a sign of mission drift. Change in capital structure, particularly leverage change has put pressure on overall profitability and sustainability of the institutions.

Keywords: transformation; sustainability; double bottom line; regulatory status; maturity; capital structure; mission drift; microfinance institutions; MFIs; average loan size; ALS; number of active borrowers; NAB; operational self-sufficiency ratio; OSS; India.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSEM.2017.095451

International Journal of Services, Economics and Management, 2017 Vol.8 No.4, pp.250 - 267

Received: 27 May 2017
Accepted: 07 May 2018
Published online: 04 Oct 2018 *

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