Remittances

The migration of high-skilled workers, sometimes referred to as 'brain drain', is usually seen as negative for origin countries. New research suggests this is an incomplete story—highlighting the channels through which emigration can benefit these countries: the 'brain gains'.

Fintech has the potential to enhance financial inclusion and welfare for low-income migrants, but its benefits may be limited for migrants with lower financial literacy.

Income increases for international migrants from the Philippines fostered economic development and investments in education in migrant-origin communities.

International migration can be transformative for low-skilled workers and their families, and governments can play important roles to ease the visa intermediation process, lower upfront costs, and ensure safer migration

Mobile money agents need additional support to transform lives in poor rural areas

International labour migration and related remittances increase human capital attainment in rural areas, and over the long run trigger a shift of jobs out of farming towards the service sector

Remittances can lower inequality and may help mitigate some of the negative impact of shocks on the poorest

Mobile money makes transfers easier, increases rural consumption and reduces poverty, but places pressure on migrant workers to increase remittances