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Window dressing of regulatory metrics: Evidence from repo markets

Author

Listed:
  • Bassi, Claudio
  • Behn, Markus
  • Grill, Michael
  • Waibel, Martin

Abstract

This paper investigates both the magnitude and the drivers of bank window dressing behavior in euro-denominated repo markets. Using a confidential transaction-level data set, our analysis illustrates that banks engineer an economically sizeable contraction in their repo transactions around regulatory reporting dates. We establish a causal link between these reductions and banks’ incentives to window dress and document the role of the leverage ratio and the G-SIB framework as the most relevant drivers of window dressing behavior. Our findings suggest that regulatory action is warranted to limit banks’ ability to window dress.

Suggested Citation

  • Bassi, Claudio & Behn, Markus & Grill, Michael & Waibel, Martin, 2024. "Window dressing of regulatory metrics: Evidence from repo markets," Journal of Financial Intermediation, Elsevier, vol. 58(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jfinin:v:58:y:2024:i:c:s1042957324000147
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jfi.2024.101086
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Banking regulation; Window dressing; Repo markets; Leverage ratio; G-SIBs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C23 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • G14 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Information and Market Efficiency; Event Studies; Insider Trading
    • G18 - Financial Economics - - General Financial Markets - - - Government Policy and Regulation
    • G21 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Banks; Other Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
    • G28 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Government Policy and Regulation

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