This is the International Finance Corporation (IFC) annual report for FY2000, which outlines its increased gross approvals, led by a record of new investments in Sub-Saharan Africa
the realization of its second-highest-ever annual net income
and, the significant resurgence in commercial bank lending through its syndications program. However, during the period IFC also felt the push of reformers, and critics, and the effects of a changing market place. Responsive to changing needs, IFC looks at how to bridge the digital divide which threatens the developing world
at ways to strengthen domestic financial markets
at how to address basic infrastructure
and, at how to improve access to health care and education, as well as how to improve environmental, and social sustainability. IFC's single largest sectoral focus remains the financial sector, which amounted to forty six percent of new approvals, though strategic priorities were further refined to align its activities with market realities, by building business, and creating job opportunities. Moreover, it has pioneered corporate environmental and social responsibility, by moving the private sector to actively promote economic development. IFC activities during FY2000 are presented, and, through case studies, shows the range of projects, by region and investment type. Finally, IFC's financial review describes performance, funding management, capital earnings, as well as risk management, and credit risk.