An event study analysis of international ventures between banks and insurance firms

The current study examines the effects on shareholders wealth as a result of the bank–insurance interface. Using a global sample of financial intermediaries and an event-study framework the findings reveal significant abnormal returns surrounding the announcement of bank–insurance ventures. A control sample using financial institutions that do not pursue bank–insurance deals shows negative abnormal returns with much higher magnitude in absolute terms. When the sample is separated on the basis of the bidder's nature, then bank-bidders earn significant positive returns, while the insurance-bidders experience significant losses. The analysis further unveils either statistically significant negative returns or insignificant values for bank–insurance divestments. Finally, profitability, size and functional diversification are all found significant in determining abnormal returns over various intervals.