Unveiling the drivers of islamic bank profitability : fundamental and macroeconomic factors in Asia

Purpose: This research aims to analyze the influence of fundamental and macroeconomic factors on the profitability of Islamic banking in Asia during 2019–2023. Methodology/Approach: This empirical study uses a quantitative descriptive approach analyzed through panel data regression using Eviews software version 12. The sample consists of 18 Islamic banks selected through purposive sampling from the 100 largest Islamic banks in Asia based on total assets during the 2019–2023 period, resulting in 1,080 monthly observation data obtained from the financial statements of each bank. Findings: The results show that CAR, BOPO, DPK, DER, and inflation have a significant effect on Return on Assets (ROA) partially, while GDP is not significant. Simultaneously, all variables affect ROA with a determination of 99.9%. Practical and Theoretical Contribution/Originality: This study highlights the importance of operational efficiency (low BOPO), capital management (CAR), DPK optimization, debt structure management (DER), and inflation control in enhancing the performance of Islamic banking in Asia. Although GDP is not significant, monitoring economic conditions remains essential to anticipate indirect impacts on profitability. Research Limitation: The findings are limited to the analysis of data from 2019–2023, and the study may not fully capture long-term trends or external factors affecting Islamic banking profitability.