Reading test №2

Reading passage
A. In many developing countries, access to traditional banking remains limited. However, the rapid spread of mobile phones has opened up new possibilities for financial services. In Kenya, a mobile-based system has been introduced that allows users to transfer money using simple text messages. This innovation has made financial transactions accessible to millions of people who previously had no bank accounts.
B. The service enables users to store funds digitally on their phones and send money to others quickly and conveniently. It has already attracted a large number of users, with many transactions involving small amounts. Experts believe that such systems could significantly transform the way people manage money, particularly in regions where banking infrastructure is weak.
C. Using the system is straightforward. Customers deposit cash through authorised agents, who then update the user’s mobile account. Money can be sent by entering the recipient’s phone number and confirming the transaction with a secure code. The recipient can later withdraw the funds from another agent by verifying their identity.
D. The popularity of mobile money services has been driven by the widespread availability of mobile networks, even in rural areas. In places where banks are scarce, mobile operators are effectively providing an alternative financial system. There are also plans to expand the service to include additional features, such as paying wages directly to employees and enabling small loans.
E. This type of service is attracting global attention. International organisations and companies see it as a way to improve money transfers, especially for people sending funds across borders. Compared to traditional transfer services, mobile-based solutions are often faster and more affordable, making them particularly appealing to low-income users.

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Questions 1–4

Do the statements on the next page agree with the information given in Reading Passage 1?

1.Mobile banking services are widely available in all developing countries.

2.The mobile money system allows people without bank accounts to transfer money.

3.Most transactions involve large amounts of money.

4.Users must visit a bank branch to withdraw money.

Questions 5-8

Choose FOUR correct answers from A–F.

Which FOUR features of the mobile money service are mentioned?

Choose 4 options.

Questions 9–12

Which paragraph (A–E) contains the following information?

9.How users send and receive money

10.The impact of mobile networks in rural areas

11.Growing international interest in the system

12.The role of the service in replacing traditional banking

Questions 13–16

Answer using NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS.

13.Where do users deposit cash?

0 / 3 words

14.What do users enter to send money?

0 / 3 words

15.What must users confirm transactions with?

0 / 3 words

16.What type of workers may receive payments through the system in the future?

0 / 3 words