Financial inclusion and sustainability: Superintendency of Banks reveals progress and challenges in vulnerable groups

The Superintendency of Banks (SB) presented this Wednesday the report “Towards an inclusive and sustainable financial system 2025”, in which it exposes significant advances, but also persistent gaps in the participation of vulnerable groups within the Dominican financial system. The study, based on surveys of financial intermediation entities and users, indicates that although progress has been made in physical accessibility, gender-focused inclusion, and the use of digital channels, obstacles persist that limit equal opportunities.

Accessibility and perception of people with disabilities

The document reveals that 84% of financial institutions have ramps or adapted infrastructure, while 45% have accessible websites and barely 20% inclusive mobile applications.
Despite these limitations, the surveyed people with disabilities expressed feeling safe using alternative channels such as the mobile application (74%) and online banking (70%). The institution highlighted that “behind each indicator there are people who deserve real opportunities for inclusion and participation in economic development”, underlining the importance of promoting public policies that strengthen trust and equity.

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Gender-focused Inclusion

The report shows progress in female participation in the financial system:

• Women represent 48% of debtors.
• 48% of entities have gender equality policies.
• A 20% allocates a specific budget to these initiatives.

However, only 14% offers products designed exclusively for women, highlighting an opportunity to expand and adapt the financial offerings. International initiatives such as the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code (WE‑Fi Code) have contributed to positioning the country as a regional benchmark in gender-disaggregated data and gap reduction.

Perception of users, migrants and older adults

The general perception of users is positive:

• 84 % expresses confidence in their financial institution.
• More than 90 % ensures to be satisfied with the products and the treatment received.

However, 26% of women report facing additional requirements when applying for financial services. Among migrants, 48% report that additional documentation is required, although 77% fully trust their entity. Regarding older adults, 16% claim to have been rejected due to their age, and their participation is concentrated in traditional products, with low digital adoption.

Sustainability in the financial sector

The report also highlights progress in sustainability:

• 45% of institutions have policies related to the topic.
• 39% offer green products, such as loans for solar panels or electric vehicles.

Despite this, 43% of users are unaware if their entity has these options, which highlights the need for greater dissemination and education.

A Call to Deepen Inclusion

The SB reiterated that strengthening universal accessibility, financial education, and technological innovation is essential to ensure equal opportunities, especially for people with disabilities, women, migrants, and senior citizens. The presentation of the report coincides with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a date that invites reflection on the importance of building a more inclusive and sustainable financial system for all.