The double bottom line of savings banks and credit cooperatives – Insights into lived practice

Abstract

Credit cooperatives and savings banks not only fulfill economic purposes, but also pursue social objectives. An orientation towards the common good as part of their hybrid target system leads to positive externalities of their business activities for society, such as the stabilization of the financial sector or the support of vulnerable groups. However, an analysis of current literature and a quantitative study on the lived practice of their social mission show that cooperative and savings banks so far only inadequately communicate the implementation of their values and principles to the public. The article thus offers an insight into the social commitment of Austrian banks and discusses potential obstacles to intensified double bottom line accountability.