Factors that affect the net interest margins in the banking industry: Analysis of Turkish banks

IIn this paper the macro and bank level factors such as interest rate risk, size and the structure of assets and liabilities that affect the net interest margins of banks operating in Turkey are examined. This study differs from similar studies in that it examines the TL and foreign currency denominated net interest margins separately and uses dynamic panel data. The foreign currency and Turkish Lira results show some differences with respect to certain macro and bank level factors. Overall, volatility and maturity mismatch are important criterias in determining the net interest margins. One important finding is the power of deposits in determining the net interest margins. Another important finding is that unlike foreign net interest margins, TL net interest margins are not sensitive to the market interest rates.