汇款的金融技术潜力：基于中美洲的视角.pdf

Electronic copy available at: /abstract=4026374 © 2021 International Monetary Fund WP/21/175 IMF Working Paper Western Hemisphere Department Fintech Potential for Remittance Transfers: A Central America Perspective Prepared by Julia Bersch, Jean François Clevy, Naseem Muhammad, Esther Pérez Ruiz, and Yorbol Yakhshilikov 1 Authorized for distribution by Patricia Alonso-Gamo June 2021 IMF Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to encourage debate. The views expressed in IMF Working Papers are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF, its Executive Board, or IMF management. Abstract This paper analyzes the potential for fintech to facilitate cheaper and more efficient remittances, and to enhance financial inclusion in Central America. Digital remittances remain nascent in the region, primarily reflecting behavioral inertia, small cost advantages of digital over traditional channels, and inadequate financial literacy. Through expanded alliances between traditional and fintech operators, digital remittances can further reduce transaction costs and reach those remote, low-income households in a timely and secure manner. A meaningful expansion of fintech remittances necessitates an enabling regulatory environment for digital financial services, and KYC and AML/CFT requirements proportionate to the value of transfers. JEL Classification Numbers: E42, F24, G23, G28, G53, L11, O54. Keywords: Central America, fintech, remittance transfers, cross-border payments, mobile money, financial inclusi