Board diversity and financial performance: A data-driven analysis of listed commercial banks in Vietnam

The role of board members has become increasingly important in corporate governance, particularly in the banking sector, which is a key part of the economy. This study aims to examine how the characteristics of boards of directors affect the financial performance of commercial banks listed in Vietnam. The analysis is based on data from 26 listed commercial banks over a sixteen-year period (2008–2023). Quantitative regression methods are used to assess the impact of board diversity on financial performance. The findings show that certain board characteristics—such as gender, level of education, presence of independent directors, and government ownership—have a negative effect on the performance of banks in Vietnam. However, the study also finds that state-owned banks tend to perform better, likely due to easier access to resources and government support during economic downturns. These results provide useful insights for listed banks in Vietnam to improve their board structure, which is crucial for enhancing financial performance.