4  For the Metropolitan Statistical Area, the poverty rate increased from 12.5 percent to 15.6 percent between 2007 and 2009 (for one-year estimates, see U.S. Census Bureau (2007), American Community Survey (Washington: Census Bureau); and U.S. Census Bureau (2009), American Community Survey (Washington: Census Bureau)) The unemployment rate in the area rose from roughly 4.5 percent to about 11 percent between December 2007 and June 2009 (Bureau of Labor Statistics and Haver Analytics).
I must say – quite an impressive trend, illustrating the scale of opportunities that alternative funding sources hold. Financial innovations may also enhance financial inclusion. World Bank data indicates that over 1,7 bn people globally still do not enjoy access to the formal financial system.