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In emerging economies, microfinance institutions (MFIs) have begun to play an increasing role by providing financial services to the poor and small enterprises. However, usury laws are becoming generalized in those countries. This study shows that interest rate ceilings do not really protect small enterprises and ultimately damage microfinance institutions. To be sustainable and thereby reach a larger number of clients, microfinance institutions need to price loans in a realistic way. One way to protect borrowers is to stimulate competition among MFIs by promoting transparency over interest rates.