Peru reports divergent trends in inequality and financial inclusion

A new national survey on inequality perception (ENADES 2026) conducted by Oxfam in Peru and the Institute of Peruvian Studies (IEP) reveals that 84% of Peruvians believe the country is governed by a few powerful groups for their own benefit. The study indicates that 51% of respondents identify political actors, such as parties and Congress, as these powerful groups, while 36% point to economic actors like large corporations. Furthermore, 55% of citizens feel the country is governed from Lima without considering regional interests, and only 27% believe they have the capacity to influence national decisions.

In contrast, the 2026 Financial Inclusion Index (IIF) by Credicorp’s Banco de Ideas shows significant progress in digital finance. Approximately 69% of Peruvians now use a mobile wallet, one of the highest rates among the eight countries evaluated in the study. The report highlights that Peru’s financial inclusion level has risen to 47.7 points, up from 37.9 in 2021, with 29% of the population reaching the highest level of financial inclusion compared to 15% five years ago.