Paper

The Evidence-Based Story of Savings Groups: A Synthesis of Seven Randomized Control Trials

Examining the role of savings group in improving the lives of their members
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This paper consolidates the results from seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of savings groups (SGs) in seven countries. It reflects upon the commonalities and differences of the results and places them within the broader body of evidence about the role of SGs in the lives of their members. The studies found several positive impacts, as well as a number of opportunities for improvement and refinement of SG programming. Findings include:

  • SG members tend to be relatively wealthier and more socially and financially active than non-members, although overall the programs reach the very poor;
  • The studies show increased savings where measured, and findings suggest that these do not occur at the expense of consumption spending or reductions in expenditures;
  • The results however suggested limited or no evidence of impacts on business, social, health, and education outcomes. These findings present a challenge to practitioners to consider adding services to SGs as a means of increasing measurable impact in these areas.

About this Publication

By Gash, M. & Odell, K.
Published