The Effect of Macroeconomic Variables, Banking Variables, and Institutional Quality on Banking Lending Power in Iraq

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Faculty of Economics, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

10.22059/ier.2024.368638.1007864

Abstract

The primary aim of this research is to examine the factors influencing the performance of banking loans in Iraq. The study utilizes unbalanced panel data over eighteen years, from 2005 to 2022, focusing on eighteen selected listed banks at the Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) based on data availability. Data sources include annual financial reports from selected banks, the Central Bank of Iraq, and World Bank indicators (WDI) covering banking, macroeconomic, and institutional quality information. The relationship is estimated using a system generalized method of moment (SGMM) approach. The results indicate that certain banking variables such as bank assets, return on assets (ROA), and deposit-to-capital ratio have a positive and significant impact on lending power in Iraq, while the real deposit rate has a negative influence. Among macroeconomic variables, the inflation rate, real exchange rate, and liquidity growth have significant adverse effects on lending power, while economic prosperity and GDP growth yield positive effects. During economic booms, bank lending power increases, while it decreases during recessions. The study also highlights the positive and significant impact of institutional quality on bank lending power, indicating the importance of robust legal and regulatory institutions in establishing a stable and predictable financial environment, and fostering confidence among banks to engage in lending activities within the Iraqi economy.

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Iranian Economic Review

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 February 2024

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