Development Economics: the study of how economic institutions develop

Development economists ask questions like: Does access to financial systems increase economic growth? Do credit subsidies (through Kiva.org) increase efficiency among development projects, or promote equity? What are the barriers to developing the microfinance industry in China?

Microfinance in China: Challenges and Innovations

Microfinance has a short and complex history in the People’s Republic of China. Tightly controlled by the government, the main challenges faced by Microfinance Institutions are regulations preventing capacity building, financing, and expansion. Innovations developed to overcome these barriers include training and linkage programs, online financial capital accumulation, and using land use rights as collateral.

Human Resource Economics: the economics of health and labor

Human Resource economists ask questions like: Does the practice of siesta increase labor productivity?

Siesta for Productivity: The Value of Pause

In an increasingly 24-7 world, businesses in several societies maintain the practice of siesta. In addition, societies with no history of practicing siesta are embracing technologies that enhance flexibility concerning the traditional structure of the workday. The benefits of rest during the work day are beginning to be medically documented, but employers may have realized the benefit in the form of increased productivity, and technology is playing a role in capturing these benefits (without the loss of productivity). Are these benefits substantial? Are they primarily the result of improved employee morale (due to a cultural value being honored), or from an enhancement of physical and emotional well being (due to the value of rest and reflection)?