A qualitative analysis of bank credit risk disclosure: Evidence from the Canadian and Italian banking sectors

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze bank credit risk disclosure practices in two different geographical contexts characterized by a homogeneous regulatory framework (Canada and Italy), by means of a qualitative content analysis methodology. We employ an innovative approach, which allows us to investigate both the qualitative and quantitative profiles of disclosures. Unlike an entirely quantitative approach, this comprehensive methodology allows us to analyze in depth the disclosure practices of Canadian and Italian banks and detect their commonalities, differences, points of strength, and weaknesses. Our results show that although there are some variations in the disclosure practices of Canadian and Italian banks, the quality of their disclosures is not significantly different. Among the most relevant differences, it emerges that while Italian banks provide more comprehensive disclosures, Canadian banks offer a more holistic view on credit risk. We contribute to the scant literature on credit risk disclosure by identifying room for improvement for both Canadian and Italian banks.