Digital transformation under the governance of Palestinian banks

Abstract This study aims to understand and evaluate the impact of applying governance principles on digital transformation in Palestinian banks listed on the Palestine Stock Exchange. A questionnaire was distributed to 750 employees from the study population. It included four axes representing governance principles (board of directors’ tasks, board practices and conflicts of interest, disclosure and transparency, and risk management) and a fifth axe representing digital transformation. The study found a strong, statistically significant positive effect of applying governance principles on digital transformation in Palestinian banks. The results also showed the keenness of the boards of directors to discuss the commitment of bank management to implement the provisions and regulations of governance issued by the Palestine Monetary Authority. This helped in developing and approving the necessary policies for risk management and enhanced the effectiveness of oversight of the digital transformation system. This was reflected in increasing customer confidence in the banks’ performance and maintaining the interests of related parties. The study recommended the need to enhance the level of transparency and disclosure regarding governance performance and the progress of digital transformation in banks. It also recommended developing an integrated framework for analyzing and managing risks related to digital transformation. This assists in providing comprehensive training and development programs for practitioners to enhance their capabilities in the field of digital transformation and applying governance principles.