Bank Specific Factors and Liquidity of Commercial Banks in Kenya

Despite reporting increased level of liquidity among the commercial banks in Kenya, recent instances of bank failures that have led to the receivership of three banks, have sparked renewed interest in the liquidity of financial institutions. This stems from the uncertainty faced by many depositors about the stability of certain entities within the industry. Given the important role that banks play in any economy, it is crucial to understand the influencing factors of liquidity as a key determinant of bank stability. Thus, this study specifically sought to evaluate whether bank size, profitability, capital adequacy and capital structure affect liquidity in commercial banks in Kenya. The population for this study was 38 licensed commercial banks as at December 2022. The data was collected from the annual reports of commercial banks and Central Bank of Kenya data repository for the period ranging between 2012 and 2022. Both descriptive statistics involving measures of central tendency and distribution as well as inferential statistical analysis were employed. Specifically, the study employed panel regression model to investigate bank specific factors affecting liquidity among commercial banks in Kenya. From the descriptive statistical analysis, the research found that between 2012 and 2022, bank size, profitability, capital adequacy and capital structure had statistically significant effect on bank liquidity in Kenya. The study concluded that bank size, profitability, capital adequacy and capital structure have a significant effect on bank liquidity in Kenya. In light of the study's compelling finding the study recommends that it is paramount for all banks to strengthen their liquidity management strategies. Commercial banks in Kenya should focus on enhancing their profitability as a strategic measure to bolster liquidity management. Banks should adopt prudent financial practices that lead to sustained profitability, such as optimizing loan portfolios, controlling operating costs, and exploring diversified revenue streams. The study also recommends that commercial banks in Kenya prioritize the maintenance of a strong capital adequacy ratio as a fundamental aspect of their liquidity management strategies. Banks should collaborate closely with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with capital adequacy requirements while also considering voluntary capital buffers to further fortify their financial strength. Lastly the study recommends commercial banks to develop comprehensive liquidity risk management strategies. These strategies should encompass a thorough analysis of their current financing mix, taking into account the proportion of equity, debt, and deposits.