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Financial inclusion is an important driver of inclusive economic growth and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While financial technologies offer significant opportunities to expand access to financial services, many BRICS+ economies continue to face systemic, behavioral, and structural barriers that leave parts of their populations financially underserved.

This policy brief examines financial inclusion strategies across the expanded BRICS+ economies, drawing on FINDEX 2021 data and comparative country experiences to assess differences in financial inclusion development and identify pathways for improvement. The analysis highlights key barriers, including limited financial literacy, urban-rural disparities, mistrust of financial institutions, and gaps in digital infrastructure. It also examines successful approaches to digital identity and financial access in countries including India, China, and Brazil. 

The brief proposes tailored policy approaches based on countries' different levels of financial inclusion and emphasizes that technology alone is insufficient to achieve sustainable progress. It calls for integrated strategies combining digital infrastructure, financial literacy, behavioral interventions, public-private partnerships, and targeted support for underserved populations. These measures can strengthen financial resilience, reduce inequality, and contribute to broader health, education, and sustainable development outcomes.