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Why do banks hold capital in excess of regulatory requirements? A functional approach

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Listed:
  • Dietrich, Diemo
  • Vollmer, Uwe

Abstract

This paper provides an explanation for the observation that banks hold on average a capital ratio in excess of regulatory requirements. We use a functional approach to banking based on Diamond and Rajan (2001) to demonstrate that banks can use capital ratios as a strategic tool for renegotiating loans with borrowers. As capital ratios affect the ability of banks to collect loans in a nonmonotonic way, a bank may be forced to exceed capital requirements. Moreover, high capital ratios may also constrain the amount a banker can borrow from investors. Consequently, the size of the banking sector may shrink.

Suggested Citation

  • Dietrich, Diemo & Vollmer, Uwe, 2004. "Why do banks hold capital in excess of regulatory requirements? A functional approach," IWH Discussion Papers 192/2004, Halle Institute for Economic Research (IWH).
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:iwhdps:iwh-192
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    incomplete contracts; minimum capital requirements; bank capital; disintermediation; pro-cyclicality;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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