Financial inclusion contributes to economic growth, poverty reduction, and societal development, making it a priority for policymakers and relevant to credit rating and risk assessment in sectors such as banks and sovereigns. S&P Global Ratings considers that emerging and frontier markets are poised for a decade of decisive change during which greater financial inclusion could prove to be a key driver of wealth creation and contribute to social stability. New technology, financial innovation, better financial literacy, prudent public policy goals, and improved affordability will be key enablers of financial inclusion, in our view. We consider that the extension of lending and savings products to unbanked individuals and small businesses in emerging and frontier economies could fuel significant growth in financial services and might expose providers to new credit and operational risks that must be managed.