this report outlines the findings of the economist intelligence unit¿s in-depth analysis of the microfi nance business environment in 54 countries. the index that underlies this report allows countries and regions to be compared across three broad categories: regulatory framework, institutional development and investment climate. the study uses a methodology which was originally developed for latin america and the caribbean in 2007 and was employed for the fi rst time on a global basis in 2009. most of the research for this report was conducted prior to may 2010, although some later developments (up to july) were included where they were particularly signifi cant.