Risk, efficiency and financial performance in the GCC banking industry: Islamic versus conventional banks

PurposeThe aim of this paper has twofold: (1) to explain and compare the financial evolution of Islamic and conventional banking sector in the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) countries before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and (2) to explore the key success factors that might affect Islamic and conventional banks performance before and mainly during COVID-19 pandemic period.Design/methodology/approachOrbis Bank Focus database and annual financial reports are used to collect financial information of Islamic and conventional banks in GCC countries over four years: 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. Descriptive statistics, T-test, multiple regression, and 2SLS and GMM models are employed to analyze the financial structure and performance of Islamic and conventional banks before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period.FindingsResults of this study reveal that (1) there is a significant difference between Islamic banks and conventional banks during the crisis of COVID-19, where the conventional banks have presented a higher level of financial performance and financial liquidity than their Islamic counterparts, (2) conventional banks have revealed higher capacity to manage their financial risk during the crisis period, and (3) a high level of non-performing loan, high inflation rate and high percentage of non-important cost have a negative impact on the financial performance of Islamic banks mainly during the pandemic period of COVID-19. However, the result indicates that a high level of liquidity risk increased the performance of Islamic banks but this impact falls sharply during the pandemic period.Originality/valueThis study provides information that supports investors, regulators and executive managers in GCC countries. A well-structured balance sheet would improve the financial performance and risk management of the banking sector in GCC countries, especially in times of crisis and pandemics.

The presence of Islamic banks with the concept of profit sharing has created new competition in the national banking business. Since its inception, Islamic banks have been required to improve their performance to compete with conventional banks, which have long dominated the market share. This study aims to compare Islamic and conventional banks' financial performance in Indonesia for the 2016-2020 period. The research method used is comparative research with a quantitative approach. The research sample consisted of Islamic and conventional banks, each taken by the five largest banks based on asset value. Samples were taken using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection techniques using documentation. The data type used is secondary data in the form of financial ratio reports obtained through the official OJK website. Data analysis techniques used descriptive and comparative analysis in the form of independent sample t-test and Mann-Whitney test. The results of this study indicate that Islamic banks have better performance than conventional banks in terms of the CAR ratio. However, when viewed from the ratio of NPL/NPF, ROA, NIM/NOM, BOPO, and LDR/FDR, Conventional Banks have a better performance. Based on the results of the different tests, it was found that there was no significant difference between the performance of Islamic banks and conventional banks when viewed from the CAR ratio. However, when viewed from the ratios of NPL/NPF, ROA, NIM/NOM, BOPO, and LDR, there are significant differences between the financial performance of Islamic and conventional banks.

Purpose – Thus the motivation for this research is focused to investigate the econometric outcomes of human, social and organizational capital on the performance of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) conventional and Islamic banks.Design/methodology/approach – Design/methodology/approach The study uses a panel data analysis of Islamic and conventional banks across the GCC region. To assess these elements, the model of Value-Added Intellectual Coefficient (VAIC) was used to measure the intellectual capital and the key indicators, return on assets (ROA) along with return on equity (ROE) have been used for financial performance.Findings – The results show that the impact of intellectual capital on performance is significant for both types of banks but to a different extent. In contrast to conventional banks, human capital and structural capital have a predominant effect on Islamic banks, indicating a greater reliance on knowledge-based resources and ethical banking principles by Islamic banks. In contrast, traditional banks show a more balanced share of each component of intellectual capital. The results further indicate the instrumental importance of intellectual capital for the financial stability and operational efficiency of above mentioned banking models.Originality/value – Comparing intellectual capital management in Islamic and conventional banks in the GCC, this study provides insights for managers, policymakers and investors to improve sustainable strategies..Research Implications – This study highlights the role of intellectual capital investment in improving financial performance in both Islamic and conventional banks. The study recommends policy makers to develop regulations to promote the growth of intellectual capital, especially in Islamic banking. Future research can explore external factors such as economic conditions and technology on this relationship and extend it to other regions.

This study aims to determine whether there are significant differences in the financial performance of Islamic banking and conventional banking listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) using five financial ratios, namely, Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Non Performing Loan (NPL), Return on Asset (ROA), Operating Expenses Operating Income (BOPO), and Total Asset Turnover (TATO). The method used in this research is descriptive quantitative. The data analysis technique used is the Independent Sample T-test to see if there is a significant difference between the financial performance of Islamic banking and conventional banking. The results of this study indicate that there are significant differences in CAR and TATO ratios between Islamic banks and conventional banks. While in the ratio of NPL, ROA, and BOPO there is no significant difference between Islamic banks and conventional banks. When viewed based on the average value (mean), the financial performance based on BOPO conventional banks are better than Islamic banks. However, when viewed from the CAR, NPL, ROA, and TATO ratios, the financial performance of Islamic Banks is better than that of Conventional Banks.

Purpose Intellectual capital (IC) plays a pivotal role in the high-tech and knowledge-based economic sectors. With the emergence of FinTech, which, with respect to the banking sector, is merging high-tech with the k-economy, there is an emerging need to highlight the importance and understand the dynamics of bank IC. With respect to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economies, where FinTech has become de rigueur, banking is bifurcated into Islamic and banking sectors. Through comparative empirical analysis, the purpose of this paper is to examine IC efficiency in Islamic and conventional banks with a view to elucidating the impact of IC, in aggregate and decomposed into its components, on an operational, financial and market performance of Islamic banks juxtaposed with conventional banks. Design/methodology/approach Using data collected from 59 banks for five years (2012-2016) involving 295 observations, an independent variable derived from the modified value added IC (MVAIC) components are regressed against dependent bank performance indicator variables [Return on Assets (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE) and Tobin’s Q (TQ)]. Two types of control variables complete the regression analysis in this study: bank-specific and macroeconomic. Findings The findings elicited from the empirical results demonstrate that there is positive relationship between IC efficiency and financial performance (ROE) and market performance (TQ) in Islamic banks. In conventional banks, however, there is a positive relationship between IC and operational performance (ROE) and financial performance (ROE). Originality/value The model in this paper presents a valuable analytical framework for exploring IC efficiency as a driver of performance in dual-sector banking economies characterized by co-existence of Islamic and conventional financial institutions. In addition, this paper highlights bank management lacunae manifesting in terms of the weak nexus between: IC and asset efficiency (ROA) in Islamic banks and IC and market value (TQ) in conventional banks.

Purpose The purpose of this study is to assess and contrast the impact of various factors, including both bank-specific and macroeconomic factors, on the financial performance of Islamic and conventional banks (I&CB) in countries with a dual banking system. Design/methodology/approach A general least square model is applied to a large data set of 103 I&CB operating in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, comprising unbalanced annual panel data spanning the period from 2015 to 2020. The financial performance index (FPI) derived from capital adequacy, asset quality, management efficiency, earnings, and liquidity (CAMEL) ratios is used as the dependent variable. Findings Key factors, such as overhead expenses, gross domestic product (GDP) and retained earnings, exert a substantial influence on the financial performance of both I&CB. Moreover, the findings suggest that certain parameters, including deposits, inflation and cellular banking usage, significantly impact on the financial performance of conventional banks, while bank size specifically affects the financial performance of Islamic banks. Research limitations/implications While this study provides valuable insights, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations. The research focuses on a specific region (MENA) and may not be universally applicable to other geographical areas or banking systems. The study’s findings are based on historical data and might not fully reflect current or future market conditions. Additionally, the choice of variables and methodology may introduce bias or limitations, as with any empirical study. The theoretical implications of the research paper lie in the distinct ethical principles that constitute the foundation of Islamic finance. The ethical opposition to Riba is poised to have extensive implications, influencing market stability, commercial and economic impact and contributing to responsible banking practices within the Islamic banking sector. The study suggests that adherence to these sacred principles not only aligns with ethical considerations but also fosters social responsibility within Islamic banking institutions. This holds significance for broader societal and economic impacts, as responsible banking practices contribute to sustainable and equitable economic development. Practical implications The study underscores the significance of efficient overhead cost management for conventional banks, particularly in the context of a rapidly evolving digital banking environment. The call for adaptation and innovation in operational strategies aligns with the broader principles of efficiency and effectiveness emphasized in Islamic finance. Social implications In essence, the theoretical and practical implications of the study surpass the narrow focus on financial performance, resonating with the broader societal and economic landscape within the Islamic banking sector. The integration of ethical principles not only reinforces the unique identity of Islamic finance but also positions it as a model for responsible and sustainable banking practices in the MENA region and beyond. Originality/value CAMEL ratios are used to build an FPI to evaluate bank performance, providing a more precise and comprehensive assessment compared to traditional return ratios like return on assets or return on equity. Second, the authors conduct a thorough analysis covering factors across bank-specific, financial and macroeconomic dimensions. Thus, the study stands out by not only examining bank-specific factors but also by considering external factors such as GDP, interest rates and the development of the financial sector. The focus on the MENA region allows us to offer generalizable findings, highlighting distinctions between I&CB and considering a period with boom years (2015–2019) and a recession year (2020).

Purpose: This article investigates the differences in the financial performance of full-fledged Islamic and conventional banks operating in Pakistan. This study also examines the impact of some inter-bank financial factors on the performance of both full-fledged Islamic and conventional banks. Design and Methodology: Annual financial data of 7 banks including (4 full-fledged Islamic and 3 conventional) were extracted from the state bank of Pakistan from 2006 to 2019. To investigate the performance differences between Islamic and conventional banks this study adopts Ordinary Least Square methods. Findings: Results of the study show that ROA for both types of banks is not indifferent to each other. However, the ROE of Islamic banks outperforms conventional banks in Pakistan. The results of the inter-bank factors indicate that LDR has a significant and negative impact on the performance of conventional banks, whereas positive in the case of Islamic banks. The result of the number of employees and branches suggests that opening new branches and recruiting new employees will positively affect the performance of Islamic banks in Pakistan. Implications: These results are beneficial for policymakers of both full-fledged Islamic and conventional banks and the investors of the country. Keywords: Islamic banking, Conventional banking, Profitability, Pakistan

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the differences in the credit profiles of Islamic and conventional banks in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and attempts to identify the factors responsible for those differences.Design/methodology/approachFinancial data sourced from the Bankscope database for a sample of 25 Islamic and 56 conventional banks headquartered in the GCC region between 1987 and 2014 are used. The credit risk of Islamic versus conventional banks is compared using a variety of univariate (mean difference test and correlation analysis) and multivariate tests (pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) regressions with robust standard errors and year fixed effects, regressions with interaction variables and logistic regressions).FindingsPooled OLS regressions find that Islamic banks have lower credit risk than conventional banks. Robustness checks using logistic functions and interaction variables confirm this result. Using multiple econometric specifications, we also find that higher capitalization, greater liquidity and cost inefficiency contribute to the lower risk profile of Islamic banks.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is unable to disaggregate data for banks offering both Islamic and conventional banking services and hence does not include conventional banks with Islamic windows. In addition, there are differences across countries even within the GCC region as to what is considered Sharia’h-compliant and what is not.Practical implicationsThe results are of potential interest to not only researchers, but also market participants, regulators and legislators. The methods used in this study could be extended to other two-tiered banking systems and, in the case of Islamic and conventional banking, to other markets.Originality/valueThe authors use a unique sample of banks headquartered in the GCC countries, whose banking markets are similar, if not homogeneous, thus excluding operations of multinational banks. By focusing on the Gulf region, differences in the credit profiles of Islamic and conventional banks can be examined without the confounding effects of unobserved factors like culture, accounting regime or regulatory environment.

This study aims to analyze and compare the financial performance of Islamic banks and conventional banks in Indonesia using library research methods. Data sources come from related literature such as scientific journals, articles, previous research reports, and relevant online sources. Bank financial performance is measured through several ratios including capital ratio (CAR), asset quality (NPL), liquidity (LDR), profitability (ROA and ROE), and efficiency (BOPO) which are calculated based on the bank's financial statements. The results of the analysis show that in general the financial performance of both types of banks is in a healthy condition and meets regulatory standards. However, there are differences in performance in several ratios individually. Conventional banks tend to have better performance in CAR, NPL, BOPO, and ROA ratios, indicating better capital quality, assets, operating costs, and profitability. Meanwhile, Islamic banks show better liquidity performance (LDR) and asset growth. However, the difference in performance is not yet fully statistically significant. In general, the financial performance of conventional banks is superior. However, the performance of Islamic banks also experienced an annual increase. To improve competitiveness, Islamic banks need to continue to make improvements, especially in terms of capital, cost management, credit quality, and increasing fee-based products. Both types of banks have developed and operated harmoniously without causing significant financial turmoil. The results of the study are expected to provide a stronger picture of the comparison of the financial performance of Islamic and conventional banks in Indonesia.

Islamic banks are recognised as entities which support social objectives as well as economic development of the country. Financial performance of the global Islamic banking and finance has shown promising growth as equal to well-established conventional banks. The study aims to investigate the effect of asset quality and operational efficiency on the financial performance of Islamic banks in Malaysia. The study uses panel data analysis, whereby the annual reports of 16 Islamic banks in Malaysia are analysed over a ten-year period from 2010 to 2019. The independent variables of the study are asset quality and operational efficiency. The dependent variable of the study is financial performance proxied by Return on Asset (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE). Multiple regression models consisting of random-effect model and fixed-effect model are employed to analyse the data of the study. The findings of the study show that both asset quality and operational efficiency of Islamic banks have a significant influence on the financial performance proxied by ROA and ROE. Hence, the findings of the study evince the importance of proper management practices in protecting the wealth, as well as the financial performance of the Islamic banks.

Banking is one of the essential elements of economic sustainability. Indonesia has two banking systems: banking with conventional principles and banking with sharia principles. Differences in the regulation of the system can affect the results of the bank's performance. So, it is necessary to analyze the comparison of bank performance to determine the significance of the differences. This research aims to present the findings of a financial performance analysis carried out on Islamic and conventional banks' financial statements in 2016-2020. This study analyzes by looking at financial performance ratios consisting of Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Return on Assets (ROA), Return on Equity (ROE), Operating Costs, and Operating Income (BOPO), and Financing Deposit Ratio (FDR). ) using SPSS. 36. The results obtained are significant differences between CAR, ROA, ROE, BOPO, and FDR of conventional and Islamic banks. Islamic banks' CAR, ROE, BOPO, and FDR values are better than conventional banks, while conventional banks' ROA is better than Islamic banks.
 Keywords: Conventional Banks, Financial Performance, Islamic Banks

Purpose – This study aims to explore the extent of risk disclosure (RD) among conventional banks (CBs) and Islamic banks (IBs) listed on stock markets in the Gulf cooperation council (GCC). It also examines the influence of RD on the banks’ financial performance as measured by return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE). Design/methodology/approach – This study uses content analysis to examine RD in the annual reports of 16 CBs and 14 IBs in the GCC for a sample of 240 firm-year observations over the period 2007 to 2014. Findings – The study shows no significant differences between the RD reported in the annual reports of CBs and that of IBs. On average, a CB reported 234 sentences while an IB disclosed 244 sentences of RD in its annual report. The authors also find that both types of banks had an upward trend over the periods. While the means of RD reported by CBs have significantly improved over the period, the RD reported by IBs has not. Similar results are also found when the authors compared the RD pre- and post-financial crisis period. Finally, the authors find that there is a significant association between RD and both models of financial performance (ROA and ROE) for IBs, after controlling other variables. However, RD has a significant association with only ROE for CBs. Research limitations/implications – The bank selection was restricted to publicly traded banks in the GCC. Other financial institutions and different types of industries were not considered. Further research could determine whether the results obtained in this study could be generalized to different industries in the GCC and or in other countries. Practical implications – This study provides evidence on the significant association between RD and the financial performance of CBs and IBs in GCC countries. This study could be helpful to regulatory authorities in encouraging banks to adopt the best practice of RD and thus promote banks’ transparency. Originality/value – This is the first known study to examine the RD practices of both types of banks and their association with banks’ financial performance in five-GCC countries (Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain), based on a longitudinal analysis of year-end annual reports, covering eight years period from 2007 to 2014.

PurposeThis study aims to explore the extent of risk disclosure (RD) among conventional banks (CBs) and Islamic banks (IBs) listed on stock markets in the Gulf cooperation council (GCC). It also examines the influence of RD on the banks’ financial performance as measured by return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE).Design/methodology/approachThis study uses content analysis to examine RD in the annual reports of 16 CBs and 14 IBs in the GCC for a sample of 240 firm-year observations over the period 2007 to 2014.FindingsThe study shows no significant differences between the RD reported in the annual reports of CBs and that of IBs. On average, a CB reported 234 sentences while an IB disclosed 244 sentences of RD in its annual report. The authors also find that both types of banks had an upward trend over the periods. While the means of RD reported by CBs have significantly improved over the period, the RD reported by IBs has not. Similar results are also found when the authors compared the RD pre- and post-financial crisis period. Finally, the authors find that there is a significant association between RD and both models of financial performance (ROA and ROE) for IBs, after controlling other variables. However, RD has a significant association with only ROE for CBs.Research limitations/implicationsThe bank selection was restricted to publicly traded banks in the GCC. Other financial institutions and different types of industries were not considered. Further research could determine whether the results obtained in this study could be generalized to different industries in the GCC and or in other countries.Practical implicationsThis study provides evidence on the significant association between RD and the financial performance of CBs and IBs in GCC countries. This study could be helpful to regulatory authorities in encouraging banks to adopt the best practice of RD and thus promote banks’ transparency.Originality/valueThis is the first known study to examine the RD practices of both types of banks and their association with banks’ financial performance in five-GCC countries (Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Bahrain), based on a longitudinal analysis of year-end annual reports, covering eight years period from 2007 to 2014.

Purpose This paper aims to comprehensively compare how Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) adoption affects Islamic and conventional banks’ financial performance. Design/methodology/approach The study uses an ESE index to measure the SDGs. The ordinary least square regression and two-step system GMM techniques are used extensively to analyze the panel data, which is analyzed using Stata software. The annual reports of Islamic and conventional banks are used to collect data. Findings The findings reveal that SDGs adoption is positively and significantly related to the financial performance of Islamic banks while negatively to conventional banks. This distinction results from Islamic finance’s innate moral and social tenets that are compatible with sustainability objectives. The findings significantly add to our understanding of the financial dynamics of Islamic and conventional banking and the conversation about the financial institutions’ role in promoting sustainable development. These findings have ramifications that provide stakeholders, financial institutions and legislators with a foundation upon which to think when incorporating sustainable practices into banking processes. Originality/value This research first measures and then compares the impact of SDGs on the returns of Islamic and conventional banks. The ESE index is generated to capture the variations of the sustainability performance of Islamic and conventional banks.

The real sector and the financial sector have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic for approximately 2 years. It condition makes the banking financial sector pay attention to the level of operational expenses efficiency and be careful in channeling financing in order to reduce the occurrence of bad financing caused by defaults from customers. Analysis of the capabilities of Islamic banks in Indonesia in terms of operational cost efficiency and managing problematic financing in conditions before and during the Covid-19 pandemic so that the ability of Islamic banks to manage their financial performance will be known is the aim of this research. Saturated sampling was the technique for sampling this research from the research population of 14 Islamic commercial banks in Indonesia. Documentation is used as a technique in collecting data from the combined financial reports of 14 Islamic commercial banks. Data before the pandemic can be seen from the 2018-2019 financial reports, while 2020-2021 data during the pandemic. Paired sample t-test with Jamovi media was used as a data analysis technique. The findings of this research show that during the Covid-19 pandemic, the level of efficiency and non-performing financing of Islamic banks has decreased, meaning that the financial performance of Islamic banks is better and operating costs are more efficient, problem financing is reduced, so that the potential for increased profitability is higher. Keywords: operating expenses and operational income, non-performing financing, financial performance, Islamic banking, covid-19.