Determinants of Bank Profitability in the Post-reform Period: Evidence from India

The present article explores the factors that influence the profitability of Indian banking sector in the post-reform period using the data from 1995 to 2012. The results indicate that operating profits, wage bills, non-performing assets and net interest margin affect the profitability of Indian banks, while the priority sector lending does not have any impact on bank profitability in India. Further, the net interest margin is found to be significantly reducing profitability. Hence, it is suggested that banking sector in India should focus on reducing its operational expenses.