Loan Loss Reserves and Bank Stock Returns : Evidence from Asian Banks

This study examines the effects of the loan-loss-reserves-to-gross-loans ratio, a proxy for credit risk, on bank stock returns for a sample of 42 listed Asian banks during the period 1999-2007. By applying a panel data analysis that includes a control for market returns, book-to-market ratio, size, and country-specific factors, the results show that the ratio has a negative and significant influence on bank stock returns. Overall, the results suggest that credit risk remains a major threat to Asian banks. In addition, while loan loss reserves are needed for mitigating credit risk, investors do not consider them as good news or a credible signal concerning bank intentions to resolve problem loans