Nexus between ESG scores and financial performance: evidence from the Indian banking sector

Purpose - This research analyzes the impact of “Environmental, Social, and Governance” (ESG) practices on Indian banks’ performances with respect to market and operational performance. Design/methodology/approach - This research examines 28 Indian banks (12 public sector and 16 private sector) from 2021 to 2023, using multiple regression models and a robust generalized least square (GLS) estimation. The models include Tobin’s Q (TQ) and Return on Assets (ROA) as dependent variables, while current and lagged ESG performance scores (sourced from Refinitive database) constitute the main independent variables. Additionally, five control variables specific to banks and the COVID-19 pandemic are also incorporated into the analysis. Findings - The study reveals that ESG practices have a time sensitive impact, meaning that the current year ESG activities have a substantial influence in driving financial performance of Indian banks than past year ESG activities. The benefits derive from past year ESG activities tend to diminish over time. The findings reinforce the necessity for banks to maintain dynamic and evolving ESG framework to remain competitive. Additionally, it is also found that private banks show greater initiative in implementing ESG practices than public banks. Practical implications - This study offers noteworthy inputs for academicians, banks, regulators and other stakeholders. Additionally, this research broadens the understanding of sustainable banking practices in Indian domain across different time horizons, offering an initial assessment of how ESG transparency affects bank performance during the post-mandatory ESG disclosure phase. Originality/value - This research investigates the time-sensitive impacts of ESG-centric practices (considering current and lagged effect) on bank performance, undertaken after the implementation of the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 2020 circular relating to mandatory ESG disclosure for the Indian commercial banks.