Half of Uzbek Women Now Have Financial Accounts, Says World Bank

Uzbekistan has made significant strides in closing the gender gap in access to financial services, according to the Global Findex 2025 report by the World Bank. The share of women with a financial account, either through a bank or mobile platform, rose sharply from 28% in 2017 to 50% in 2024.

The report surveyed 141 economies during 2024. It highlights Uzbekistan’s growing access to mobile technology and financial services.

In 2024, 56% of the adult population in Uzbekistan had either a bank or mobile account, up from just 34% in 2017. Uzbekistan is among the 75% of adults in low- and middle-income economies who now own a financial account. This figure is up 6 percentage points since 2021.

The use of mobile wallets has grown significantly. In 2024, 24% of adults used mobile money services, compared with only 5% in 2017. These services are particularly important in rural areas, where traditional banks have limited reach. Smartphone ownership remains lower among poorer adults and women. However, Uzbekistan is closing these gaps faster than many neighbouring economies.

Digital payments are also becoming more common. Over the past 12 months, 34% of adults in Uzbekistan made at least one digital transaction.

Compiled every few years since 2011, the Global Findex report covers over 120 countries and is based on nationally representative surveys. The 2025 edition is built on data collected throughout 2024.