Contemporary Trends in European Cooperative Banking: Sustainability, Governance, Digital Transformation, and Health Crisis Response

Cooperative banks have a unique business model based on democratic foundations, proximity to members, limited profit-seeking, and prudent management. This book explores recent trends affecting cooperative banks, such as their role in sustainable finance, digital transformation, consolidation of Fintech players, and governance structures. It also discusses the specific role of cooperative banks in the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The cooperative banks' business model is truly unique in the financial market. It is characterized by democratic foundations, such as the one-head-one-vote principle, proximity to the members and the community they serve, a limited profit-seeking nature, and prudent management. However, these principles are applied in various organizational structures and economic and regulatory contexts, making cooperative banks significantly different from one country to another. This book aims to expand our existing knowledge on the European cooperative banking sector by analyzing recent trends affecting cooperative banks.

Firstly, the book delves into the crucial role of cooperative banks in the policy and societal movement towards sustainability. It explores how these banks are embracing sustainable finance practices and contributing to the broader goal of environmental conservation and social responsibility. The digital transformation journey of cooperative banks is also examined, highlighting the challenges and opportunities they face in the era of technological advancements.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the need to evolve the governance structures and processes of cooperative banks to foster (and, in some cases, restore) democracy and transparency in decision-making. It discusses the challenges faced by cooperative banks in maintaining their independence and autonomy while adapting to changing market conditions and regulatory requirements.

Lastly, the book engages in a thoughtful debate about the specific role of cooperative banks in the economic crisis that has followed the unfolding of the Covid-19 pandemic. It examines how these banks have responded to the needs of their members and the communities they serve, and explores the potential for cooperative banks to play a more active role in promoting economic resilience and social well-being.

This book is of interest to scholars, professors, students, and practitioners of banking and finance. It will build on the existing research in the field and explore the latest trends and developments in the cooperative banking sector. By examining the unique characteristics and challenges of cooperative banks, this book provides valuable insights into the future of financial services and the role that these institutions can play in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

Weight: 519g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030981938
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022