The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic pushed an additional 78.3 million people into extreme poverty, increasing the total to 182.4 million in 2020, according to a study from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The pandemic has also exposed how far countries are from achieving many of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This webinar explored the catalytic role of financial inclusion to attain the SDGs and support more inclusive development. It also highlighted the importance of a One ADB approach to strengthen financial and digital infrastructure, promote financial literacy and education especially for women, and strengthen the partnership between regulators, the private sector, and multilateral financial institutions. 

The webinar was part of the Learnings for Economics and Policy Analysis (LEAP) Series organized by ADB's Southeast Asia Department. LEAP features online presentations to strengthen the economic and policy analysis skills of the department's staff in preparing research and project documents. LEAP aims to encourage participants to discuss the latest developments in the region and share country experiences and perspectives.

Speakers

• Christine Engstrom, Director, Private Sector Financial Institutions, ADB
• Shigehiro Shinozaki, Senior Economist, ADB
• Yoonee Jeong, Senior Digital Technology Specialist, ADB
• Poornima G.W. Jayawardana, Financial Sector Specialist, ADB
• Moderator: James P. Villafuerte, Senior Economist, ADB