The Polish banking sector in the European Union – commonalities and differences

This chapter examines the relation between the changes in the Polish banking sector and European Union (EU) membership. It identifies both similarities and differences among the group of countries which are seemingly homogenous in respect of their banking sector’s efficiency. The chapter discusses key developments in the Polish banking sector following EU accession. It presents a literature review regarding the integration process and banking efficiency. The chapter describes the methodology and look at the data. Major changes occurred in the ownership structure of the Polish banking sector. In terms of assets, banks with a majority of foreign capital dominated in the banking sector in Poland in 2004–2016. The European Union Single Market creates a place without internal regulatory obstacles to financial services and the movement of capital. The objective of maximizing profits not only requires that financial services be produced at a minimum cost, but it also demands that revenues be maximized.