TITLE:
The Determinants of Interest Rate Spreads in Nigeria: An Empirical Investigation
AUTHORS:
Anthony E. Akinlo, Babatunde Olanrewaju Owoyemi
KEYWORDS:
Interest Rate Spread; Determinants; Nigeria
JOURNAL NAME:
Modern Economy,
Vol.3 No.7,
November
29,
2012
ABSTRACT: The paper examines the determinants of interest rate spreads in Nigeria using a panel of 12 commercial banks for the period 1986-2007. The results suggest that cash reserve requirements, average loans to average total deposits, remuneration to total assets and gross domestic product have positive effect on interest rate spreads. However, non-interest income to average total assets, treasury certificate and development stocks have negative relationship with interest rate spreads. In general, the findings that suggest a reduction in cash reserve ratio, high bank overhead costs amongst others will help to moderate the high interest rate spreads in Nigeria.