This week s Digital Finance Developments considers accelerators for the digital transformation of the economy, with a focus on digital infrastructure. Increasing public sector attention is likely to shape initiatives to expand access and drive digital service delivery.

The global infrastructure gap to 2040 is $15 trn; EMDEs need to invest 4.5% of GDP per year on infrastructure towards SDGs; Public action: rising clean energy R&D budgets, new U.S. infrastructure deal, greening the BRI, G7 "Build Back Better World.".

A new report from the Institute of International Finance, the Financial Services Forum and the International Swaps and Derivatives Association examines several important issues related to the functioning of the financial markets – in particular, large global banks and dealers – during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations front and center for EM infrastructure.

The April Insurance Update provides targeted updates on IIF insurance activities and events, and highlights relevant IIF publications or related regul.