Regional financial efficiency and its non-linear effects on economic growth in China

Abstract This paper examines regional financial efficiency and economic development in China. We find significant differences in financial efficiency among the eastern, central, and western regions of China and a non-linear relationship between financial efficiency and economic growth. We find that financial efficiency promotes economic growth only when it reaches a certain level (financial threshold). It increases capacity for the accumulation and allocation of financial resources where it exceeds the threshold. Rapid inancial development can provide a superior financial environment and improved conditions for economic growth to promote the continuous improvement of the Chinese economy.