Monetary policy and bank lending in euro area since the outset of the global financial crisis

Abstract

In this article, we present the impact of the monetary policy stance of the European Central Bank (ECB) since 2007 on bank lending in the euro area and compare the effects of the main measures: interest rate changes, liquidity provision, and asset purchase programmes. We also analyse the channels through which monetary policy might influence the banking system and narrow our focus to the individual countries. The main results indicate stimulating impact of ECB's policy stance on bank lending that extends its influence mainly through interest rate cuts further supported by the liquidity provision and asset purchase programmes. However, we also find considerable differences across the member states, often depending on the state of the banking system and loan demand in the member state. The results support the variety of monetary policy measures introduced by the ECB, as each played its own role in supporting the banking system and encouraging bank lending in the euro area.