Microfinance Banana Skins 2014 describes the risks facing the microfinance industry as seen by an international sample of practitioners, investors, regulators and observers. This survey was conducted in January and February 2014 and is based on 306 responses from 70 countries. It updates previous surveys carried out in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012.

This year's report reflects the increasing complexity of a maturing industry. The title of the report, “Facing reality” refers to the fundamental structural changes that are taking place in the industry. It recognises the increasing diversity of microfinance service providers as well as the possibility that insufficient focus is being placed on the strategic development required to realise the sector’s financial inclusion potential. Achieving sustainable growth, whilst addressing the concerns of overindebtedness raised in this report, will require reaching out to new client segments with appropriate products.