Dynamic Effects of Financial Institutions on Economic Growth with an Emphasis on Insurance Market; Evidence from Developed and Developing Countries

This study presents new evidence on the effects of life insurance, banking and capital market on economic growth in 18 developed and 20 developing countries using Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) approach to dynamic panel data method for years 2000-2016. The results show that in developed countries life insurance accelerates economic growth, while the effects of private credit on economic growth are negative and the stock market has not had a significant effect on growth. In developing countries, the results indicate that the stock market can increase economic growth, while the effect of private credit is negative on growth and life insurance has not had a significant effect. Overall, the results suggest that the effects of development in financial activities on growth vary based on the time period, income level, and financial development. That is, countries at different levels of development should engage in different financial activities to ensure sustainable growth.