Informal trade is, in effect, a vital part of the trading system across Africa. It contributes to food security and provides a source of income for millions of people. But governments don’t monitor it and don’t keep it in mind when they’re designing rules for trade. Joachim Jarreau, Cristina Mitaritonna and Sami Bensassi explain how they tracked informal traders in Benin, and how fixing the knowledge gap can help governments design policies that reduce the costs for these less visible operators.

Dowry, a transfer of property at marriage from parents to daughters, is an ancient tradition in many parts of the world. Sonia Bhalotra tells us why the presence of gold in many Indian dowries means that girls in that country are at greater risk when the world’s gold prices rise.