Determinants of Buffer Capital for Banks in India

Abstract

This study has examined the impact of bank-specific indicators on the buffer capital of banks in India. The impact of key variables return on assets, credit deposit ratio, return on equity and the ratio of non-performing loans to total loans on buffer capital has been examined for banks in India. Using dynamic panel data regression, the results reveal that non-performing loans to total loans, return on assets and return on equity have a positive impact on buffer capital. It is revealed that the banks keep extra capital cushion with an increase in risk elements. Also, the credit deposit ratio is having a negative but significant impact on buffer capital. The results further reveal persistency in buffer capital across all models. The role of the cost of capital in the determination of buffer capital has also been examined. The results can be used by bank policymakers in the formulation of various reformation packages.