A new data set on competition in national banking markets

Abstract

We estimate the degree of competition in the banking sectors of 148 countries over the period 1997-2010 using three methods: the Lerner index, the adjusted Lerner index, and the profit elasticity. Marginal cost estimates required for all methods are obtained using a flexible semi-parametric methodology. All three indices show that competitive conditions in banking deteriorated during the period 1997-2006, improved until 2008, and deteriorated again thereafter. Levels of competition differ across regions and income groups, but there is gradual convergence over time. Banking system is less competitive in sub-Saharan Africa and low income countries and more competitive in Europe and Central and South Asia and OECD countries.