Background of the Study
Integrated loan risk management has become a cornerstone in modern banking operations, particularly as financial institutions strive to minimize credit losses and maintain portfolio quality. First City Monument Bank (FCMB) has embraced an integrated approach to managing loan risk by combining traditional credit assessment techniques with advanced data analytics and predictive modeling. This integration enables the bank to continuously monitor borrower performance and macroeconomic indicators, thereby facilitating early identification of potential defaults (Okeke, 2023). The system encompasses automated credit scoring, real-time portfolio tracking, and stress testing, which collectively help in adjusting lending strategies and provisioning for anticipated losses.
This proactive risk management framework is designed to reduce non-performing loans (NPLs) by enabling timely interventions—such as restructuring or additional monitoring—thereby preserving asset quality and enhancing profitability. The integration of multiple data sources and analytical models has led FCMB to adopt a holistic view of credit risk, balancing aggressive growth objectives with prudent risk controls (Adebayo, 2024). Additionally, regulatory reforms and the global push for stronger risk governance have further motivated the bank to invest in such integrated systems, aligning with international best practices.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in the effective execution of integrated risk management. Data integration from disparate systems, the calibration of predictive models, and the need for continuous staff training are issues that can affect overall performance. This study aims to evaluate the impact of integrated loan risk management systems on reducing defaults, examining both the technological and operational aspects that contribute to improved loan performance and enhanced financial stability at FCMB.
Statement of the Problem
Although FCMB has implemented an integrated loan risk management system, defaults continue to be a concern due to several challenges. One major issue is the inconsistency in data quality across legacy systems, which hinders the accurate calibration of predictive models (Ibrahim, 2024). Integration difficulties may lead to delays in risk identification, resulting in late interventions that fail to prevent loan defaults. Moreover, rapid changes in the economic environment can outpace model adjustments, leaving the bank exposed to unforeseen risks.
Another problem is the variability in staff expertise; despite ongoing training programs, discrepancies in risk interpretation and decision-making can occur. This inconsistency undermines the full potential of the integrated system and may contribute to higher-than-expected default rates. Additionally, the financial cost of continuously updating and maintaining these systems poses a significant challenge, as it can divert resources from other critical areas of risk management.
The study, therefore, seeks to investigate the key factors that limit the effectiveness of integrated loan risk management in reducing defaults at FCMB and to propose targeted strategies to overcome these challenges.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on FCMB’s risk management practices over the past three years using internal credit data, risk reports, and interviews with risk managers. Limitations include data availability and external economic influences.
Definitions of Terms
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