CSR Disclosure and Bank’s Financial Performance Nexus: Evidence from Pakistan.

Abstract

Present research intends to evaluate the nexus among the corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and financial effectiveness of banking industry in Pakistan. This investigation applies a quantitative research approach using panel data from a sample of Pakistan’s commercial banking institutions over timeframe limited from 2009 to 2020. The outcomes of mixed effect model visualize that there is inverse significant association among CSR disclosure ROE. Whereas no statistically significant linked in the context of short-term financial performance, by using a proxy of ROA. The results suggesting that the focus on CSR events and initiatives may have a detrimental effect on financial effectiveness. It is generally acknowledged that CSR offers numerous non-financial benefits, such as enhancing social media campaigns and luring ethical investors from both domestic and foreign markets. In developing countries context (i.e., Pakistan), we can conclude that the “cost of the CSR initiatives” and “shift of focus view” can affect the performance of banking industry. The lack of a positive correlation among corporate social responsibility (CSR) and financial performance in the Pakistani financial services sector can be attributed to a lack of interest and engagement in socially conscious investing. These findings indicate that the adoption of socially responsible investment has not gained significant cultural traction in Pakistan. The results emphasize the importance of banks, regulators, and stakeholders reassessing the balance between social responsibility and financial performance, considering the possible negative consequences of revealing CSR initiatives.