Operational Risk Management And Performance Of Cooperative Microfinance In Thailand

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study aims to examine the operational risk management (ORM) impact on cooperative microfinance performance by identifying specialization as a moderator with respect to the relationship between ORM and cooperative microfinance performance. Methodology: The survey questionnaires were distributed to 455 respondents, all of whom were senior officers of saving and credit cooperative microfinance service providers (MSPs) in Thailand, using a quantitative technique. The data analysis was performed employing SmartPLS software version 3.0 and the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) method. Main Findings: The result indicates that cooperative microfinance performance is significantly affected. Here, specialization moderates the relationship between ORM and cooperative microfinance performance. Research limitations/implications: The survey used a cross-sectional design by only examining credit and saving cooperative MSPs. It employed a quantitative method and relied on a single mode of data collection. The implication of this study will be important for policymakers like the Bank of Thailand and the Ministry of Finance in Thailand when it comes to developing microfinance policies and programs. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study is unique in that it examines the impact of ORM on cooperative microfinance performance and recognizes specialization as a moderator.