| Abstract: |
We experimentally test the impact of expanding access to basic bank accounts
in Uganda, Malawi, and Chile. Over two years, 17%, 10%, and 3% of treatment
individuals made five or more deposits, respectively. Average monthly deposits
for them were at the 79th, 91st, and 96th percentiles of baseline savings.
Survey data show no clearly discernible intention-to-treat effects on savings
or any downstream outcomes. This suggests that policies merely focused on
expanding access to basic accounts are unlikely to improve welfare noticeably
since impacts, even if present, are likely small and diverse. |