In this session CGAP will introduce to e-MFP members its new initiative to review the impact evidence of financial services on development outcomes. In the session we will frame why the topic of the impact of financial services continues to be a top priority for various FSPs, policy makers and funders, despite several decades of studies. We will discuss the persistent constraints that have prevented further understanding of this impact, and propose steps required to overcome these constraints. CGAP will present its upcoming workplan to (i) advance our understanding of the impact pathways that financial services have to enable development outcomes and (ii) convene the financial inclusion community to implement a learning roadmap that deepens our understanding of how financial services can more effectively contribute to these development outcomes. It will conclude with welcoming questions, comments, and suggestions from participants.