This book examines the evolving dynamics between banks and firms within the context of alternative finance and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) integration. The book contributes to understanding the bank-firm relationship in light of the changing financial landscape and its implications for sustainable development. The book employs an empirical analysis to examine the bank-firm relationship in the context of alternative finance and ESG performance to assess firms’ riskiness, access to funds and cost of capital.

The book addresses research gaps by comprehensively analysing the impact of alternative finance and ESG on the bank-firm relationship. It assists banks in adapting their financing practices and policies to align with emerging trends, and it offers insights for banks to evaluate and mitigate ESG-related risks effectively. It provides policy implications for promoting responsible lending, supporting the growth of alternative finance, and incentivising ESG integration in the financial sector. Ultimately, it contributes to formulating policies that foster a sustainable and inclusive financial system, and will be of interest to professionals and researchers in finance, alternative finance, and sustainable finance.