Determinants of Bank Performance after Bailout in 2008: An Empirical Analysis on US and UK Banks

This study investigates the determinants of bank performance for 25 banks in both the UK and USA after bailout in 2008. The research encompasses both quantitative research method (panel data models), and qualitative research method (case study approach). The study employs secondary data obtained from Bankscope, Fame, and online resources for both panel data model analysis and case study research. The data was analysed using both descriptive and analytical techniques. The panel data model tried to capture the overall effects of banks performance from 2005-2008. Within this, a distinction is made between pre-bailout, bailout and post-bailout period. This facilitates a comparison to recognize what determines bank performance after government bailout in 2008. It was found that management efficiency in terms of bank cost to income ratio, and liquidity were the most significant determinants, with an inverse relationship to bank performance. GDP growth and Net Interest Margin were found to be positively significant on the whole in determining bank performance, but on further analysis, it was found that the significance for GDP was relevant only at a post-bailout stage, and NIM, at a pre-bailout stage. Bank size and capital were not found to be relevant for the set of bailed out banks. Case study evidence further shows that low-risk acquisitions, corporate culture, and improved liquidity enhance bank performance. In contrast, poor economic environment, poor risk management, and larger bailout funds released to banks result in reduced efficiency and lower bank performance. The findings revealed that there are significant differences in the determinants of profitability before the bailout and after the bailout. GDP growth and NIM were found to be the main drivers causing this variance. In conclusion, the study hopes to give a better insight to not only bank management, but governments, to provide a guideline to assist in enhancing bank performance