Corporate governance and market performance of European banks: analysing differences and similarities between one-tier and two-tier models

Abstract

Due to the relevant role of banks in economies, the subject of corporate governance of banks is attracting growing attention by researchers worldwide. They generally focus on the relationships between board structure and bank performance and risk level. Unfortunately, the results of the studies are somehow contradictory. Thus, this is calling for further investigation on this topic. We have tested the effects of several corporate governance variables (board size, women size, average age and board duration) on bank performance of 46 European banks with one-tier and two-tier corporate governance models. The results show differences and similarities within the two subgroups of banks (i.e., relating to board size, independence and number of female directors). Findings are presented and commented for inspiring policy makers and regulators as well as for driving the management strategy to foster profitability.