Paper Title
National Culture and Bank Performance in Arab Economies During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract
This study addresses a significant gap in the literature by examining the influence of national culture on bank performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite increasing recognition of cultural factors in organizational dynamics, empirical research on how these factors specifically affect the banking sector's response to crises is notably lacking. Utilizing data from 145 banks across 22 countries in the Arab region, this research investigates the impact of three primary cultural dimensions—uncertainty avoidance, individualism/collectivism, and power distance—on bank performance amidst the pandemic. The findings shed light on the nuanced relationships between cultural predispositions and bank resilience during times of crisis, highlighting the importance of cultural factors in shaping strategic responses and risk management practices within the banking industry. The findings underscore that banks operating in societies characterized by high uncertainty avoidance and power distance tend to exhibit relatively stronger performance during the pandemic. Conversely, banks situated in individualistic (or collectivist) cultures are prone to experiencing weaker (or stronger) performance amid the crisis. It also underscores the significant influence of uncertainty avoidance, collectivism, and power distance on bank performance during the pandemic, highlighting these cultural dimensions as primary determinants. Moreover, the robustness of the results is confirmed through rigorous supplementary analyses, including the incorporation of additional variables, alternative sample assessments, and addressing potential endogeneity concerns. Understanding these dynamics is essential for informing policymakers, regulators, and banking professionals seeking to bolster the sector's resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges. By elucidating the role of national culture in influencing bank performance during crises, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the interplay between cultural contexts and organizational outcomes, offering valuable insights for navigating the complexities of global financial markets in times of uncertainty. Keywords - National Culture; Bank Performance; COVID-19, Arab Economies