The Asymmetric Effect of Financial Development on Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Lower and Upper Middle Income Countries

Abstract Subject and purpose of work This study focuses on the effects of financial development on economic growth across two groups of countries with different income levels and aims to control for the roles of the rule of law and human development levels in this relationship. The study sample covering the period 2002-2022 consists of 40 lower-middle-income and 42 upper-middle-income countries selected countries. Materials and methods Analysis was conducted using the method of moment quantile regression, and the validity of the findings tested using simultaneous quantile regression. Results Because of the analysis, the level of human development and the rule of law have a negative impact on economic growth in both country groups. According to the most interesting finding of the study, the effect of financial development on economic growth is asymmetric. Conclusions For both groups of countries, challenges in achieving human development and the rule of law are significant obstacles to achieving inclusive economic growth through financial markets and institutions.