The Role of Electronic Banking Services in Enhancing Bank Profitability: An Analytical Study of a Sample of Private Iraqi Commercial Banks
The study aims to demonstrate the extent to which the level of electronic banking services reflects the banking profitability indicators of a sample of private banks (Baghdad, Al-Ahli, and the Middle East) listed on the Iraq Stock Exchange. The study identified a problem: To what extent do electronic banking services affect profitability indicators in the selected sample banks? Are the bank's electronic banking services compatible with the banking industry's economic reality and technological developments? The study reached several conclusions, including that electronic banking services, especially ATMs, points of sale, and electronic card services, have positively impacted profitability indicators in some banks, including the National Bank of Iraq and the National Bank of Baghdad. Their importance has diminished or had no positive impact on the National Bank of the Middle East. Expanding the National Bank's digital infrastructure has reduced costs and increased operational efficiency, improving profitability.
Regarding compatibility with economic and technological realities, these services are fully aligned with global trends in the banking sector. This transformation has become inevitable in the current era, as financial institutions strive to provide convenient, fast, and secure services to customers, enhancing their competitiveness in the market. Furthermore, leveraging digital infrastructure helps banks keep pace with global economic transformations that are driving a reduction in reliance on cash and stimulating digital transactions.