Development Finance and Financial Stability in Iraq: A Dynamic Analysis of Asset Quality and Lagged Effects (2015–2024)

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Department Financial and Banking sciences, University of Al-Muthanna,Samawah,Iraq

Abstract
The study examines the relationship between development finance and financial stability in Iraq over the period 2015–2024 using an analytical, empirical, and structural approach that integrates both theoretical foundations and practical evidence. The research relies on time-series data obtained from the Central Bank of Iraq, focusing on indicators of development financing and banking sector stability. The results indicate that development finance in Iraq has generally been sufficient, particularly following the expansion of targeted lending and investment programs. However, financial flows exhibit noticeable volatility across the study period, reflecting changes in monetary policy, economic conditions, and institutional performance. The analysis shows that the impact of development financing on financial stability is not immediate, but rather appears with a lag due to the long-term nature of funded projects. Findings also suggest that variations in financial stability are closely associated with changes in asset quality within the banking system. Improvements in indicators are largely driven by liquidity injections rather than deep structural reforms. Overall, the study concludes that liquidity constraints, rather than structural constraints, are the main drivers of observed fluctuations. Accordingly, it recommends a more flexible policy framework supported by strong regulatory oversight to enhance the effectiveness of development finance and ensure sustainable financial stability in Iraq.

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