Investigating the Impact of Strategic Agility on Performance and Competitiveness in the Banking Industry

Amir Nejad, Mohammad Sina; Barimani, Sogand; Chaloei Ashrafi, Alireza

doi:10.22034/oajre.2025.525035.1114

Investigating the Impact of Strategic Agility on Performance and Competitiveness in the Banking Industry

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Mohammad Sina Amir Nejad ¹

Sogand Barimani ²

Alireza Chaloei Ashrafi ²

¹ Master's Degree, Business Management (Strategic Management Orientation), Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran.

² Master's Degree, Business Administration (Marketing Orientation), Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran.

10.22034/oajre.2025.525035.1114

Abstract

The banking industry today faces technological advancements, environmental changes, and intense competition. In this context, strategic agility has been recognized as one of the most important determinants of long-term organizational success. This paper aims to investigate the impact of strategic agility on performance and competitiveness in Iranian commercial banks. The statistical population of this study includes managers and experts working in state-owned and private commercial banks in 2024. Stratified sampling was used, and data were collected via a standardized questionnaire and analyzed using SmartPLS4 software. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypotheses. Results indicate that components of strategic agility—such as rapid responsiveness, organizational flexibility, innovation, and organizational learning—have a significant positive effect on both bank performance and competitiveness. Additionally, the mediating role of performance in the relationship between strategic agility and competitiveness is confirmed. Findings show that banks with higher levels of strategic agility have achieved better positions in the dynamic competitive environment. Finally, recommendations for improving strategic agility and increasing competitiveness in banks are presented.

Keywords

Strategic agility

Organizational performance

Competitiveness

Banking

Structural equations