Examining the Relationship between Green Banking Initiatives and Financial Performance of Banking Sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain

Abstract

Abstract : This thesis explores the intricate relationship between green banking initiatives, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, and financial performance within Bahrain's banking sector. The primary objective is to explain how green banking practices and ESG considerations influence banks' financial outcomes directly and through the mediating effect of green banking's perceived value. The research employs a robust quantitative methodology, leveraging Structural Equation Modeling with Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) to analyze data collected from 198 banking professionals in 14 banks operating in Bahrain via a structured questionnaire. This sophisticated approach enables examining multiple relationships between variables and assessing both direct and indirect effects. The study's originality stems from its comprehensive examination of green banking initiatives within the specific context of Bahrain, a nation actively pursuing sustainable development goals. It also introduces the concept of green banking perceived value as a mediating factor, offering fresh insights into how customer perceptions influence the relationship between green practices and financial performance. The findings reveal a detailed picture of green banking's impact in Bahrain. Environmental performance, social performance, governance, environmental policies and goals, and green processes and procedures influence banks' financial performance. Interestingly, green lending and green products/services do not demonstrate a direct significant impact on financial performance. The study also uncovers the crucial mediating role of green banking's perceived value in the relationship between certain green initiatives and financial performance, underscoring the importance of customer perceptions. Moreover, the research indicates a high level of implementation across various green banking initiatives and ESG factors in Bahrain's banking sector. Based on these findings, the study recommends that banks prioritize initiatives showing direct positive impacts on financial performance while continuing to develop others for long-term benefits. It emphasizes the need for increased focus on communicating green initiatives to enhance customer-perceived value. Developing new metrics to capture green banking initiatives' long-term and indirect benefits is also suggested. The study provides valuable insights that can help develop procedures promoting sustainable banking practices. It is an attempt to contribute to the growing knowledge of sustainable finance. It offers practical implications for banking professionals and management in Bahrain and beyond, smoothing the way for more sustainable and financially viable banking practices in the region.