Linkages Between Financial Variables, Financial Sector Reform and Economic Growth and Efficiency

Author/Editor:

R. B. Johnston ; Ceyla Pazarbasioglu

Publication Date:

October 1, 1995

Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

This paper analyzes the different channels through which financial variables and financial sector reform can affect economic growth and efficiency, using panel data for 40 countries which reformed their financial systems. Financial sector reform is hypothesized to affect economic growth and efficiency through three main channels: the real interest rate representing the interest cost of capital, the volume of intermediation, and financial sector efficiency. The results indicate that financial reforms have structural effects; that financial variables and reforms are important determinants of economic performance; that the impact depends on whether countries did or did not face a financial crisis; and that the “quality” of financial sector reform matters.

Series:

Working Paper No. 1995/103

Subject:

Commercial banks Financial crises Financial sector development Financial sector reform Real interest rates

Notes:

Uses panel data from 40 countries which have reformed their financial efficiency.

English

Publication Date:

October 1, 1995

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451948110/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA1031995

Pages:

32

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