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Does domestic investment spur economic complexity? Effects and transmission channels

Author

Listed:
  • Marietta Yilen

    (University of Bamenda)

  • Mekam Pouatcha Mathurin Aimé

    (University of Bamenda)

  • Ethel Selamo

    (University of Bamenda)

Abstract

This paper presents the first large-scale study examining the impact of domestic investment on economic complexity, using a dataset of 84 countries spanning four decades (1980-2019). By employing a range of estimation techniques, including SGMM, dynamic panel threshold models, and quantile regression methods, we establish several key findings. First, domestic investment promotes economic complexity above a certain threshold. Second, the nonlinear relationship between domestic investment and economic complexity is influenced by the levels of corruption and socio-economic conditions. Third, we identify economic growth, health, and education as key channels through which domestic investment affects economic complexity. Our results are robust across alternative specifications, methodologies, business cycle fluctuations, and levels of economic development. This study highlights the importance of adopting strategies that enhance domestic investment, reduce corruption, and improve socio-economic conditions to fully leverage the benefits of domestic investment on economic complexity

Suggested Citation

  • Marietta Yilen & Mekam Pouatcha Mathurin Aimé & Ethel Selamo, 2025. "Does domestic investment spur economic complexity? Effects and transmission channels," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 45(3), pages 1240-1259.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-24-00436
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • O1 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development
    • C5 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling

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