Maturity transformation risk factors in Islamic banking: Implication of Basel III liquidity regulations

Abstract

Purpose - Maturity transformation risk is one of the leading causes of the global financial crisis. While endorsing the new Basel III liquidity reforms, the Islamic Financial Services Board has suggested a modified NSFR ratio as a structural measure for the maturity transformation function of Islamic banks, allowing for their unique balance sheet structure. The purpose of this paper is to analyze various firm-specific and macroeconomic factors that may significantly affect the maturity transformation risk of these banks. Design/methodology/approach - Using an annual data set of 55 full-fledged Islamic banks from 11 different countries over a period from 2006 - 2015, this study utilizes a two-step system generalized method of moments estimation technique on an unbalanced panel data. Findings - The empirical results reveal bank size, capital, less-risky liquid assets, risky liquid assets, external funding dependence and market power as significant bank-specific factors in determining maturity transformation risk. However, the authors find no evidence for the effect of bank credit risk on maturity transformation risk in Islamic banking system. Originality/value - This is the first study that focuses on the measurement of maturity transformation risk and its determinants in Islamic banks in a cross-country context, with regards to new liquidity regulatory requirements as proposed by Islamic Financial Services Board (IFSB) in conjunction with Basel III.