Vliv digitalizace na bankovní sektor ve vybraných zemích Evropské unie

Abstract

This master’s thesis examines the impact of digitalization on selected operational and financial indicators of the banking sector in ten European Union countries over the period 2007–2024. The theoretical part defines the functioning of banking in the EU and the Czech Republic and describes the process of digitalization, including associated risks and the FinTech sector. Beyond the analysis of trends in the monitored indicators, the practical part is primarily based on the LSDV (Least Squares Dummy Variable) regression model with fixed effects and lagged variables. This analysis explores the impact of internet banking usage on the physical infrastructure of banks, cost efficiency (CIR), and return on assets (ROA). While the influence of digitalization on the structural transformation of the banking sector—specifically the reduction of branches and employees—proved to be fundamental, the results regarding financial performance and efficiency are less straightforward. The conclusion of the thesis provides a critical evaluation of the findings, considering methodological constraints and the limits of interpretation.