The Interdependence Between Financial Stability and Financial Inclusion: A South African Perspective

Abstract

Financial stability and financial inclusion are important goals, and both are promoted in the Financial Sector Regulation Act of 2017. This contribution considers whether there exists a possible tension between the South African Reserve Bank (with its financial stability mandate) and the Prudential Authority and Financial Sector Conduct Authority (with their mandates to promote financial inclusion). Selected definitions of the concepts of financial stability and financial inclusion are analysed. Academic contributions addressing the nexus between financial stability and financial inclusion, and empirical studies on this nexus, are explored. An analysis of the Financial Sector Regulation Act considers the financial-stability and -inclusion mandates implemented by the Act and how these measures can work with or against each other. The findings are analysed in a discussion on the connection between financial stability and financial inclusion. Recommendations are made to ensure that financial regulators and institutions simultaneously pursue the goals of financial stability and financial inclusion.