CNBV Urges Enhanced Risk Management and Anti-Money Laundering Measures
The microfinance sector in Mexico could have a greater impact on the population it serves if aspects such as risk mitigation best practices and anti-money laundering measures are reinforced, according to Ángel Cabrera Mendoza, President of the Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV).
Background on Microfinance in Mexico
Microfinance in Mexico involves providing financial services, including credits, savings, and insurance, aimed at addressing individuals and microenterprises excluded from the traditional banking system. The goal is to alleviate poverty and foster local development, with a strong presence in the south-southeastern region of the country.
Sector Consolidation and Growth
The microfinance industry in Mexico is experiencing consolidation, with increased growth but fewer institutions participating. A decade ago, ProDesarrollo had 81 affiliated institutions; recent data show fewer than 50 entities.
- This reduction is attributed to structural factors, such as the sale of institutions acquired by competitors and the cessation of operations due to financial difficulties.
- Remaining institutions have professionalized, diversified funding sources, and strengthened their commitment to best practices for sustainability.
Growth Indicators Amidst Institutional Decline
Despite the decrease in institutions, ProDesarrollo affiliates show growth indicators overall. As of the second quarter, the portfolio balance for the network was 92,912 million pesos, an 8% increase from the same period last year, serving 5.78 million people with active financing.
- Iván De la Cruz, General Director of Avanza Sólido (a ProDesarrollo affiliate), highlighted that the credit portfolio has grown steadily from 2019 to 2025, with over a 50% increase in the balance.
- The moralization index for the second quarter of 2025 was 3.1%, a slight increase from 3% in the same period of 2024.
De la Cruz emphasized that, over time, all key indicators have improved: greater credit placement, better coverage, and more professional risk management of the overdue portfolio (currently at 3.1%).
Territorial Coverage and Digital Advancements
ProDesarrollo’s territorial coverage is noteworthy, as it currently serves 96% of the country’s municipalities with 2,601 branches—an increase of 173 from 2024.
The sector has also made progress in digitalization, with over 50% of affiliates operating through digital applications and 45% implementing digital onboarding processes.
De la Cruz stressed that the challenge lies in ensuring this transformation is truly inclusive.
Key Challenges and ProDesarrollo’s 25-Year Milestone
The main challenges for the microfinance sector include maintaining human and territorial treatment through digitalization, reinforcing institutional governance, diversifying funding sources (currently concentrated in own resources), and investing in data intelligence.
ProDesarrollo has celebrated 25 years of existence since 2008, documenting the numbers of its affiliated entities. These include multiple-purpose financial societies, banks, popular financiers, and savings and loan cooperatives.
Analyzed data confirm a trend of sector maturation, expressed through improved institutional practices, sustained territorial expansion, and more robust financial management—even in adverse scenarios like the pandemic. Gender, territory, and credit type segmentation have been crucial in identifying persistent gaps and developing targeted strategies.
