Tracing the flow of money to reveal spatial effects and inequalities in cash transfer programmes
Published 30 Jan 2026 · Added to radar 5 Nov 2026
Source abstract
Municipal cash transfer programs have emerged as a post-pandemic strategy to combat poverty and social inequalities and promote economic development in urban spaces. While these policies show promise, their impact on neighbourhood inequalities remains unclear. Using a local multiplier methodology with spatial analysis, we assessed the circulation of a cash transfer program using local currency in Maricá, Brazil. We found that a high level of economic concentration persists, even when the social benefits are directed to the most deprived areas within the city, suggesting that complementary policies should be employed to make these programs more effective in reducing intra-urban inequalities.
Abstract metadata supplied by the research index; wording belongs to the original source.Structured record
- Study objective (from source abstract)
- Using a local multiplier methodology with spatial analysis, we assessed the circulation of a cash transfer program using local currency in Maricá, Brazil.
- Source-reported findings
- We found that a high level of economic concentration persists, even when the social benefits are directed to the most deprived areas within the city, suggesting that complementary policies should be employed to make these programs more effective in reducing intra-urban inequalities.
- Methods
- spatial analysis