Do corporate social responsibility and gender diversity affect bank efficiency? Evidence from a transitional economy

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and gender diversity on the bank efficiency of Vietnamese commercial banks. In addition to their individual effects, the study explores whether gender diversity moderates the relationship between CSR and bank efficiency. Design/methodology/approach This research covers a panel of 27 commercial banks in Vietnam over a 13-year period from 2010 to 2022 using the Tobit regression method is used. Findings The results indicate that CSR intensity is negatively associated with bank efficiency, consistent with the trade-off and agency-cost views. Conversely, board gender diversity shows a positive and significant effect on efficiency. Importantly, the interaction between CSR and gender diversity is positive, suggesting that gender-inclusive boards transform CSR from a potential cost burden into a stabilizing governance mechanism. These findings remain robust across alternative model specifications and sensitivity analyses. Originality/value This study makes a novel contribution by jointly examining CSR and gender diversity in shaping bank efficiency within a transitional economy. By applying a stochastic frontier-based efficiency framework, it addresses limitations of conventional risk measures and highlights the governance-enhancing role of women directors in amplifying the stabilizing effects of CSR. The findings provide valuable implications for bank managers and policymakers seeking to strengthen governance, CSR effectiveness and financial resilience in emerging markets.