Zombie bank meaning

A zombie bank is a financial institution that is insolvent but continues to operate due to government support.


Zombie bank definitions

Word backwards eibmoz knab
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "zombie" is a noun, and the word "bank" is also a noun. Together, "zombie bank" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division zom-bie bank
Plural The plural of the word "zombie bank" is "zombie banks."
Total letters 10
Vogais (4) o,i,e,a
Consonants (5) z,m,b,n,k

Understanding what a zombie bank is crucial, as it has significant implications for the financial sector and the economy as a whole. A zombie bank refers to a financial institution that continues to operate despite being insolvent or near insolvency. Essentially, these banks are kept alive artificially through government support, bailouts, or other forms of assistance.

These zombie banks may appear to be functioning normally on the surface, continuing to accept deposits and issue loans. However, they are essentially "undead" entities, with their balance sheets being propped up by external interventions rather than genuine profitability. This situation can be harmful as it prevents resources from flowing to more productive and solvent institutions.

Causes of Zombie Banks

There are several factors that can lead to the emergence of zombie banks. One common reason is a financial crisis that leaves many banks with toxic assets and insurmountable levels of debt. In an effort to prevent a complete collapse of the financial system, regulators may decide to keep these banks operational with government support.

Consequences of Zombie Banks

The presence of zombie banks can have detrimental effects on the economy. These institutions may continue to lend to unviable businesses, thereby propping up zombie companies as well. This can prevent the necessary process of creative destruction, where inefficient firms are allowed to fail, making way for more productive enterprises.

Additionally, zombie banks can distort competition in the financial sector, as they are not operating on a level playing field. Healthy banks may find it challenging to compete with institutions that are effectively being kept alive artificially. This can lead to inefficiencies in the allocation of capital and resources.

Addressing the Issue

To tackle the problem of zombie banks, regulators may need to take decisive action. This could involve conducting stress tests to identify weak banks, implementing stricter regulations to ensure capital adequacy, or even allowing certain institutions to fail in an orderly manner. By addressing the issue of zombie banks proactively, regulators can help safeguard the stability and efficiency of the financial system.

In conclusion, understanding the concept of zombie banks is essential for policymakers, regulators, and market participants. By recognizing the signs of such institutions and taking appropriate measures, it is possible to mitigate the risks associated with these undead entities and promote a healthier financial environment for all.


Zombie bank Examples

  1. During the financial crisis, many feared their bank would turn into a zombie bank.
  2. The government had to intervene to prevent the collapse of a zombie bank.
  3. Investors lost confidence in the banking system due to the presence of zombie banks.
  4. Some economists argue that propping up zombie banks only delays the inevitable.
  5. The zombie bank continued to operate despite being insolvent.
  6. Examining the balance sheet of a bank can reveal signs of it becoming a zombie bank.
  7. Regulators struggle to deal with the problem of zombie banks in the economy.
  8. The concept of a zombie bank poses a risk to the stability of the financial system.
  9. A zombie bank can have a ripple effect on the entire banking sector.
  10. Addressing the issue of zombie banks requires decisive action from policymakers.


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  • Updated 28/03/2024 - 20:38:20