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Poverty continues to be one of the most significant problems in Latin America. Since the contribution of market-based solutions to alleviate poverty has recently been discussed, this thesis compares microfinance as an established service to inclusive business as an emerging business model. This comparison examines how each business model specifically contributes to poverty alleviation and what their respective strengths and weaknesses are. Although the direct impact of both models on the poverty alleviation of individuals is positive, particularly for the inclusive business model, the overall concept is facing increasing viability and effectiveness problems.

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Marius Haibel studied Economics and International Affairs at the University of St. Gallen and Singapore Management University. He is German and has been working on multiple projects in Switzerland, Costa Rica, the United Kingdom and Ireland. He wrote this book during a business consulting project with FUNDES Internacional in Costa Rica.

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