Overview

Chu's research is focused on business and low income sectors, particularly in the use of commercial platforms to deliver what has traditionally been considered public responsibilities. In the last three decades, business models have emerged to meet the underserved needs of the lowest 3 income quintiles of the world, often comprising ~70% of the population of emerging market countries. These can be found in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, basic utilities, financial services (include fintech, microfinance and impact investing.) Chu is interested in the key factors behind the success (and failure) of business models focused on low-income sectors and the conditions under which they create (or destroy) financial returns and social value, and are capable of generating systems change.