LFS was invited to conduct a feasibility study for a SME bank in a small country in Southeast Asia. The following services were provided:
- Analysis of the country’s macroeconomic and political situation, and conclusions regarding possible implications for a SME Bank
- Assessment of the legal and regulatory framework for a microfinance institution or an SME Bank, including a recommendation for the type of institution to be created under such conditions
- Initial discussions with regulators and other relevant industry stakeholders on the creation of a specialized microfinance institution or SME Bank
- Assessment of the size and structure of competition, description of main players and competitors in the SME finance industry
- Market study of the SME sector and its demand for and supply of financial services, including a survey
- Identification of potential investment partners for a specialized SME Bank
- Establishment of a five-year business plan for a specialized SME Bank
