9. Practical implications
Banks have existing internal control systems and observe some of the principles. The study found that financial reporting and involvement of high class auditors was the practice of all the banks. Some banks are no longer in business leading to the involvement of only eight banks which was not the situation in Spain some few years ago. Practically, the result provides much confirmation as to how effective internal control systems could help minimize credit risk. This brings on board a new dimension of establishing the relationship between credit risk and operational risk because most risk management research classifies internal controls under operational risk. Bank management should not only consider internal controls as an operational risk issue but also credit risk. Again, it is not enough just to have the control mechanisms in place but the full implementation thereof. Shareholders should be wary of independent board members for their lack of motivation to protect the interest of shareholders (agency problem).
10. Social implications
Banks through financial intermediation keep the economy running. Banks owe it a social responsibility to stay in business. The failure of banks affects depositors through the loss of investments which brings serious externalities on other banks. When one bank fails, the confidence of public in banks is seriously impaired.The study emphasizes the social capital banks gain through effective and reliable internal control systems especially when material internal control weaknesses are reported.
Acknowledgments
iWe would like to acknowledge Frank Gyimah Sackey (University Rovira and Virgila) and Vincent Kyere Nartey (University of Bonn) for their support and assistance towards the completion of the work.