The Influence of Green Credit on the Operating Performance of Commercial Banks in China

Using panel data from 35 listed banks' annual reports and corporate social responsibility reports from 2009 to 2022 as a sample, this study empirically examines the impact of green credit on the performance of commercial banks and takes China Merchants Bank as the case analysis object. Based on the theory of green finance, this paper discusses the function mechanism of the effect of green credit on commercial banks by empirical method, heterogeneity analysis and robustness test. Then, using the specific business data of China Merchants Bank in the field of green credit and its business performance data, the paper further reveals the specific impact of green credit on the business performance of the bank. The research shows that commercial banks have improved their asset income ability through green credit, significantly enhanced their operating efficiency in social responsibility and risk control, and positively impacted the overall operating effect. Finally, this paper suggests that green credit can positively promote commercial banks' performance and point out a new path for the sustainable development and social responsibility of commercial banks. This research has not only contributed to theory but also provided important reference for practice.