A study of 53 countries during 1980-95 finds that financial liberalization increases the probability of a banking crisis, but less so where the institutional environment is strong. In particular, respect for the rule of law, a low level of corruption, and good contract enforcement are relevant...

The paper examines the effects of increased financial integration on the economy and, specifically, the welfare of depositors and the business sector. A simple model of a small open economy with a fragile banking sector and imperfect capital mobility is developed. Increased international...

We study how foreign bank penetration affects financial sector development in poor countries. A theoretical model shows that when foreign banks are better at monitoring highend customers than domestic banks, their entry benefits those customers but may hurt other customers and worsen welfare....