Risk-taking, Ownership and Excess Reserves in the Ghanaian Banking System

Abstract

This study looks at the effects of ownership structure and the risk-taking behaviour of banks in Ghana. Using data from 21 banks during 2000–2010, the study employs random effects panel data regressions. The results show that banks prefer to hold high excess reserves instead of lending to borrowers when they perceive the markets to be risky. Locally owned banks tend to be more efficient in managing their risk than foreign-owned banks, while closed corporations tend to perform better in managing risk than locally owned banks. JEL Classification: G21, G31, G28, O16