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Breaking the Bank? A Probabilistic Assessment of Euro Area Bank Profitability

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  • Mr. Selim A Elekdag
  • Sheheryar Malik
  • Ms. Srobona Mitra

Abstract

This paper explores the determinants of profitability across large euro area banks using a novel approach based on conditional profitability distributions. Real GDP growth and the NPL ratio are shown to be the most reliable determinants of bank profitability. However, the estimated conditional distributions reveal that, while higher growth would raise profits on average, a large swath of banks would most likely continue to struggle even amid a strong economic recovery. Therefore, for some banks, a determined reduction in NPLs combined with cost efficiency improvements and customized changes to their business models appears to be the most promising strategy for durably raising profitability.

Suggested Citation

  • Mr. Selim A Elekdag & Sheheryar Malik & Ms. Srobona Mitra, 2019. "Breaking the Bank? A Probabilistic Assessment of Euro Area Bank Profitability," IMF Working Papers 2019/254, International Monetary Fund.
    • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2019/254
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Katharina Allinger & Julia Wörz, 2020. "The sensitivity of banks’ net interest margins to interest rate conditions in CESEE," Focus on European Economic Integration, Oesterreichische Nationalbank (Austrian Central Bank), issue Q1/20, pages 51-70.

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