Moderating Effect of Interest Rate on the Relationship between Camel Rating Model and Financial Stability of Commercial Banks in Kenya

The study sought to assess the moderation effect of interest on the relationship CAMEL rating system and financial stability of commercial banks in Kenya. The paper originates from the Doctoral dissertation of the first author in which the co-authors served as supervisors. Causal research design was utilized and a census of forty-one commercial banks in Kenya was undertaken for the period 2013 to 2019. Information asymmetry theory and liquidity shiftability were utilized. Interest rate insignificant moderated the nexus between CAMEL rating variables and financial stability with the exception of asset quality. Interest rate only moderated asset quality and financial stability nexus significantly. It was recommended that the Central Bank of Kenya set interest rates in view of the prevailing economic situation. The study further puts forward the recommendation that commercial banks should strive towards reducing non-performing loans which can be through the setting up of effective credit risk management systems. Credit monitoring can be done in order to ensure that loans granted are utilized for the intended purposes. In time of difficult financial conditions, loan restructuring can be considered.