Influence of Loan Approval Practice on Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kisii County, Kenya

Authors

  • Rodgers  Nyanumba Nyabuti Student, Department of Accounting and Finance, Kisii University.
  • Andrew Nyangau Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Finance, Kisii University.
  • Mactosh Onwonga Senior Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Finance, Kisii University.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58425/ajfbm.v4i1.366

Keywords:

Loan approval, financial performance, commercial banks, Kisii County, online banking platform

Abstract

Aim: This study examined how specific digital loan approval practices such as automated credit scoring, digital customer onboarding, electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) procedures and the use of mobile and online banking platforms impact the financial performance of commercial banks in Kisii County.

Methods: A descriptive survey design was employed.  Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample size of 107 employees. Closed-ended questionnaires were used in collecting primary data from 107 employees across 16 banks. Annual reports were extracted from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). Financial performance data was triangulated from the responses given from 2016 to 2020. The study used descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple and hierarchical regression analysis.

Results: The results revealed a significant negative relationship between loan approval practices and financial performance. This indicating that inefficient or overly strict approval processes contributed to lower financial outcomes for the banks.

Recommendation: The study recommended strengthening digital loan approval processes by enhancing the integration of credit rating assessments and credit bureau checks. Improvements to technological infrastructure are needed to ensure smooth access to updated credit data, addressing concerns about transparency and fairness.

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Published

2025-06-14

How to Cite

Nyabuti, R. N., Nyangau, A., & Onwonga, M. (2025). Influence of Loan Approval Practice on Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kisii County, Kenya. American Journal of Finance and Business Management, 4(1), 10–21. https://doi.org/10.58425/ajfbm.v4i1.366