Using a dynamic panel model for more than 15 000 banks from 148 countries from 1988 to 2010, we investigate the interaction between size, growth and profitability of banks. For our total sample, we cannot reject the hypotheses that the variability of bank profitability and the level and...

The work examines the relationship between central bank independence and accountability. The authors do this by using an indicator for central bank accountability based on the laws of 16 central banks. Central bank accountability is identified as having three distinct features, namely, the...

The work examines the relationship between central bank independence and accountability. The authors do this by using an indicator for central bank accountability based on the laws of 16 central banks. Central bank accountability is identified as having three distinct features, namely, the...

This report studies the reaction of the level and volatility of the euro-dollar exchange rate to statements of ECB officials during the first years of EMU. We focus on statements on monetary policy and the (potential) strength of the euro. We find that the Bundesbank has dominated the news...

The recent wave of mergers and acquisitions in the European banking sector has raised concerns that bank profitability will rise because of less competitive market conditions. This paper analyses the relationship between concentration, competitiveness, efficiency and profitability in the...

Contemporary views often support the idea that a high level of central bank independence, together with a clear mandate for it to restrain inflation, are important institutional devices for maintaining price stability. The meaning and policy implications of central bank independence are...

Contemporary views often support the idea that a high level of central bank independence, together with a clear mandate for it to restrain inflation, are important institutional devices for maintaining price stability. The meaning and policy implications of central bank independence are...

We examine the effect of factional demographic faultlines between two naturally occurring factions within Dutch pension fund boards on conflict management within these boards. Data on 313 Dutch pension fund boards confirm that factional demographic faultlines are positively related to...