Bank Use of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Information in Lending Decisions

Abstract

This chapter uses a survey of personnel in Libyan commercial banks, including general managers and credit managers, to investigate how banks perceive and process social responsibility and sustainability information declared by potential borrowers in their credit applications and other documentation. In particular, the chapter considers how the backgrounds and experiences of key bank staff in lending decisions may bias toward or against lending with the disclosure of potential borrower information on social responsibility and sustainability. We also consider the impact of institutional features, particularly the stance of government, in shaping these perceptions and links with action via regulation and the possible influence of business ethics through industry associations.