Sustainable Development Goals and bank profitability: International evidence

Abstract

This article explores the impact of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals on bank profitability. The study considers multiple indicators of Sustainable Development Goals and bank profitability across 28 countries. The findings demonstrate that achieving specific Sustainable Development Goals leads to a significant improvement in bank profitability. More specifically, achieving good health and well-being leads to an increase in bank non-interest income. Providing clean water and sanitation for all also increases bank return on assets. On the other hand, taking strong action to combat climate change results in decreased bank return on assets. Additionally, attaining quality education and promoting affordable and clean energy sources lead to an increase in bank return on equity. The regional findings indicate that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals has varying impacts on bank profitability measures across banks in Europe, Asia, and Africa.