ASEAN Capital Market Deepening Drivers
ASEAN Capital Market Deepening Drivers
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This study investigates the drivers of capital market deepening in ASEAN countries from a
sustainable development perspective. It focuses on the influence of stock market returns,
GDP growth rate, inflation rate, and IPO activity on the market capitalization-to-GDP
ratio. Using a panel dataset covering six ASEAN countries from 2010 to 2024, the study
applies the System Generalized Method of Moments (System GMM) to account for
endogeneity and dynamic effects. The results reveal that stock market returns and inflation
rate have a significant positive impact on capital market deepening, while GDP growth
rate and IPO count do not show significant effects. These findings highlight the importance
of financial market performance and monetary conditions in enhancing financial depth in
emerging markets. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to strengthen
capital markets as a means of supporting inclusive and sustainable economic development
in the ASEAN region.
Article Info
• Received :
• Revised :
• Published :
• Pages :
• DOI :
• JEL : G15, E44, O16
• Keywords : Stock Market Return, GDP Growth Rate, Inflation Rate, IPO Count,
Market Capitalization
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1. Introduction
The increasing integration of global financial markets and the ongoing pursuit of
sustainable development have encouraged emerging economies to strengthen their domestic
capital market infrastructure. (Abraham et al., 2020) In the ASEAN region, capital market
deepening has become a strategic priority not only to accelerate economic growth but also
as a mechanism to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) . Capital market deepening reflects a financial system's ability to mobilize domestic
savings and allocate them efficiently to productive sectors, thereby serving as a key channel
for long-term development financing (Arner et al., 2020; Ibrahim et al., 2020). In the midst
of global uncertainties, two critical factors influencing the stability and growth of capital
markets are monetary risk often represented by inflation rates and exchange rate volatility
and market dynamics, such as stock return performance and capital mobilization activities
(Koranteng & You, 2024; Odionye et al., 2023).
According to Bansal et al. (2021), from a sustainable development perspective,
capital market metrics such as equity returns, market capitalization, financial market depth,
and the volume of initial public offerings (IPOs) are frequently employed as reliable
proxies to assess the structural sophistication and operational maturity of a nation’s
financial system. These indicators not only provide critical insights into the strength and
resilience of capital market infrastructure, but also serve as integral instruments for
measuring progress toward broader development objectives. In particular, they contribute
meaningfully to the realization of several key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
including SDG 8, which focuses on fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth
and employment; SDG 9, which emphasizes innovation, industrial development, and robust
infrastructure; and SDG 17, which underscores the importance of global partnerships and
coordinated policy implementation.
Moreover, inflationary volatility remains a critical factor that can erode investor trust,
weaken the attractiveness of capital markets, and disrupt capital mobilization efforts. In
contrast, positive performance in equity markets, as reflected in healthy stock returns, tends
to stimulate investor engagement and enhances the market’s capacity to allocate financial
resources efficiently and productively (Lepetit, 2023). Consequently, a nuanced and
empirically grounded analysis is needed to explore the role of macro-financial risks
particularly inflationary pressures and investor sentiment in driving capital market
deepening across ASEAN countries. This is especially vital for emerging economies within
the region, which continue to face institutional and structural limitations while striving to
align their financial strategies with long-term sustainable development goals.
Amid the growing recognition of the pivotal role that deep and resilient capital
markets play in economic development, many emerging ASEAN economies continue to
grapple with entrenched structural challenges. The ASEAN Investment Report (2024)
highlights that over 32% of regional enterprises perceive financial instability particularly
inflation volatility and currency depreciation as a major impediment to attracting long-term
investment and fostering investor confidence. These concerns materialized sharply in early
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In 2024, capital market indicators across six ASEAN countries showed diverse
patterns. Vietnam led with the highest stock market return (9.5%) and GDP growth
(7.09%), but recorded the lowest IPO activity (1) and a relatively moderate market
capitalization-to-GDP ratio (65%). Indonesia and Malaysia posted negative returns (-7%
and -6%), though Malaysia had the highest IPO count (55) and a strong market depth
(93%). Singapore and Thailand showed modest growth (2%) but maintained deep markets,
with Market Cap GDP at 118.4% and 100%, respectively. The Philippines saw moderate
growth (6%) and stable inflation (3%), but low IPO activity (3). These figures highlight the
structural disparities in market performance, mobilization, and depth across ASEAN,
despite shared regional development goals.
To address this gap, this study adopts a dynamic panel estimation approach using the
System GMM (Generalized Method of Moments) technique to evaluate the effect of stock
market returns, GDP growth, inflation rates, and IPO activity on capital market deepening,
measured by the market capitalization to GDP ratio (Ishioro & Tarurhor, 2022) . The
exclusion of policy or event-related dummy variables allows the analysis to focus on the
structural financial-economic linkages, rather than episodic shocks (Asiedu et al., 2021). By
integrating core indicators of market sentiment, macroeconomic performance, monetary
stability, and capital formation, this research aims to clarify the endogenous drivers of
capital market development in ASEAN countries within a sustainable development
framework. The results are expected to offer policy-relevant insights for enhancing
financial depth and resilience in emerging markets pursuing SDG-aligned growth.
Recent studies have highlighted the significance of market dynamics and
macroeconomic factors in influencing capital market development in ASEAN countries.
The OECD (2024) emphasizes that robust capital markets are essential for mobilizing
resources to achieve sustainable growth, noting the importance of equity and bond markets
in financing corporate investments and infrastructure projects. Similarly, McKinsey (2017)
identifies The advancement of more sophisticated and deeper capital markets across
emerging Asian economies holds the potential to significantly enhance access to long-term
financing for medium and large scale enterprises, as well as critical infrastructure projects.
Such financial deepening is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating economic growth
by facilitating efficient capital allocation and fostering investor confidence. Within this
framework, the development of stock markets becomes a key mechanism for mobilizing
domestic savings, improving corporate transparency, and supporting broader
macroeconomic stability, Shi et al. (2021) find that institutional quality, including sound
monetary policies and regulatory frameworks, significantly affects stock market
development and price volatility in ASEAN countries. Furthermore, the ASEAN
Exchanges report (2024) provides empirical data showing variations in market
capitalization and IPO activities across ASEAN nations, reflecting differing levels of
market maturity and investor confidence. These findings underscore the multifaceted nature
of capital market deepening, influenced by both market performance indicators and
macroeconomic stability.
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While previous studies have explored the relationship between financial development
and macroeconomic performance, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning the
combined impact of market returns, inflation risk, and capital formation activities on capital
market deepening within the ASEAN context (Mail et al., 2020; Setiawan et al., 2020).
Existing research often examines these factors in isolation or within broader macro-
financial frameworks, lacking a focused analysis on their interactive effects on market
capitalization expansion (Mulatsih et al., 2023). Moreover, few empirical studies have
directly assessed capital market deepening as a function of capital mobilization events and
investor expectations, despite their relevance in understanding market confidence and
financial sustainability (Adoms et al., 2020; Qizam, 2021). This gap is particularly
significant in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where well-
functioning capital markets are increasingly recognized as instruments to mobilize long-
term funding aligned with inclusive and sustainable growth.
This research seeks to address a critical gap in the literature by examining, through
empirical analysis, the extent to which monetary risks and market dynamics contribute to
capital market deepening within ASEAN economies a subject that remains relatively
understudied, particularly in the context of advancing sustainable development. Distinct
from many earlier studies that often evaluate financial indicators in isolation or rely heavily
on static analytical models, this study adopts a System Generalized Method of Moments
(System GMM) approach. This advanced econometric technique captures the complex and
evolving interactions between key macroeconomic variables and financial development
indicators over time and across countries.
The innovative contribution of this study lies in its integration of diverse but
interconnected variables namely stock market returns, GDP growth, inflation, and IPO
activity into a single dynamic panel model. By doing so, it not only sheds light on the
mechanics of capital market expansion but also frames its analysis within the broader
narrative of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The methodological
strength of the System GMM lies in its ability to mitigate common empirical challenges,
such as endogeneity and autocorrelation, while incorporating lagged dependent variables to
explore structural persistence and inertia within financial systems in emerging markets.
From a policy standpoint, the study generates evidence-based insights that are highly
relevant for stakeholders such as financial regulators, central banks, and development
agencies. By pinpointing which macroeconomic levers exert the most significant influence
on fostering deeper, more inclusive, and more resilient capital markets, the research offers
practical guidance for policy formulation. This is particularly timely for ASEAN countries
working to harmonize financial sector growth with their national sustainability agendas.
The findings are aligned with key global goals, including SDG 8 (promoting inclusive and
sustained economic growth and decent work), SDG 9 (supporting innovation,
industrialization, and robust infrastructure), and SDG 10 (reducing inequality and
enhancing social inclusion across populations).
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2. Literature Review
The Sustainable Development Theory (SDT), introduced in the Brundtland Report
(1987), defines sustainable development as the pursuit of fulfilling present needs without
compromising the capacity of future generations to meet theirs. This theory emphasizes a
balanced approach that harmonizes economic progress, social equity, and environmental
stewardship. Within the sphere of capital markets, SDT highlights the critical role of
financial systems in channeling resources to support the achievement of the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). A well-developed capital market, often measured through the
market capitalization-to-GDP ratio (Market Cap GDP), reflects a country’s ability to
allocate resources efficiently and mobilize domestic savings toward productive investments
(Jahan et al., 2019). Such markets play a pivotal role in financing infrastructure and
fostering innovation, directly contributing to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and
Infrastructure) (Günay & Can, 2022). At the same time, they provide businesses with
platforms to raise capital, stimulating entrepreneurship, job creation, and inclusive
economic growth aligned with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) (Ibrahim et
al., 2020). Furthermore, the collaborative nature of capital markets, which inherently
involves governments, private sectors, and international stakeholders, resonates with the
partnership-oriented ethos of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) (Stoian & Iorgulescu,
2019; Akenten et al., 2020). Therefore, capital market deepening serves not only as a
financial mechanism but also as a strategic instrument for achieving long-term
sustainability objectives.
Financial Market Theory of Development posits that well-regulated financial markets
are instrumental in channeling private capital flows to spur domestic economic
development, especially in developing countries (Puschmann et al., 2020). This theory
suggests that by providing access to equity and debt financing, capital markets can reduce
reliance on traditional aid and loans, thereby accelerating economic growth and fostering
entrepreneurship. Financial deepening refers to the increased provision of financial services
with a wider choice of financial instruments (Dutta & Meierrieks, 2021). Empirical studies
have established a positive relationship between financial deepening and economic growth,
indicating that a more developed financial sector can lead to higher economic performance
(Soedarmono et al., 2016). In emerging economies, deepening capital markets can mobilize
savings, improve investment allocation, and enhance risk management, thereby
contributing to sustainable economic development.
The Relationship Between Stock Market Returns and Market Capitalization-to-GDP
Ratio
Stock market returns serve as a barometer of investor sentiment and economic
vitality. In emerging economies like those in the ASEAN region, higher stock market
returns often signal robust investor confidence, leading to increased investment and an
expansion of market capitalization relative to GDP.
Empirical evidence has consistently demonstrated a strong and positive association
between the advancement of stock markets and the trajectory of economic growth in high-
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income nations, where this linkage tends to be reciprocal. In these contexts, economic
expansion not only benefits from robust capital markets but also actively contributes to
their further development. However, the pattern appears to diverge in middle-income
economies, where the relationship is more commonly observed as unidirectional—stock
market progress tends to stimulate economic growth, yet the reverse effect is comparatively
limited. This asymmetry may reflect structural differences such as underdeveloped
financial infrastructure, limited investor engagement, and weaker institutional frameworks,
which collectively constrain the feedback loop from macroeconomic performance to capital
market maturation.
Moreover, rising stock prices enhance firms' net worth, improving their balance
sheets and reducing borrowing constraints. This facilitates greater investment and
contributes to economic growth. For instance, in Indonesia, the stock market capitalization
accounted for 45.2% of its nominal GDP in December 2020, indicating a significant role of
the stock market in the country's economy. In the context of the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), vibrant stock markets can mobilize capital towards sustainable initiatives.
The United Nations emphasizes the role of capital markets in financing the SDGs,
highlighting that well-functioning stock markets can attract investments into sectors critical
for sustainable development.
In summary, stock market returns play a crucial role in capital market deepening by
boosting investor confidence, enhancing corporate financial health, and fostering economic
growth, thereby increasing the Market Cap GDP ratio. This dynamic is essential for
ASEAN countries aiming to achieve SDG-aligned growth.
H1: There is a positive and significant relationship between stock market returns and the
market capitalization to GDP ratio in ASEAN countries.
The Relationship Between GDP Growth Rate and Market Capitalization to GDP
Ratio
The GDP growth rate is widely regarded as a core indicator of a nation’s economic
strength and capacity for expansion. Within the ASEAN context, periods of robust GDP
growth are typically associated with rising corporate earnings and strengthened investor
confidence (Asmarani & Ningsih, 2023). This positive economic momentum often
translates into higher stock valuations, which in turn elevate the market capitalization-to-
GDP (Market Cap GDP) ratio, reflecting deeper capital market development. The
relationship between GDP growth and market capitalization is particularly relevant in
advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In particular, SDG 8 (Decent Work
and Economic Growth) underscores the importance of sustained economic expansion and
the creation of productive employment opportunities (Căpraru et al., 2018; Lee & Goh,
2023). A well-functioning capital market, signaled by a strong Market Cap GDP ratio,
serves as a key conduit for mobilizing financial resources toward infrastructure, innovation,
and entrepreneurship—critical drivers of sustainable economic transformation (Asiedu et
al., 2021). Thus, GDP growth not only reflects macroeconomic vitality but also acts as an
enabler of broader developmental objectives when supported by efficient and inclusive
capital markets.
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3. Research Methods
The data collection involved secondary data obtained from reputable sources such as
the World Bank, ASEAN Exchanges, IMF, and national stock exchanges. The main
variables include stock market returns, GDP growth rate, inflation rate, IPO counts, and
market capitalization to GDP ratio. These data were extracted, cross-checked for
consistency, and compiled into a panel dataset ready for econometric analysis. The
measurement of variables is as follows:
1) Market Cap GDP serves as the dependent variable, defined as the ratio of total stock
market capitalization to GDP, reflecting capital market depth.
2) Stock Market Return represents the annual return on the main stock index in each
country.
3) GDP Growth Rate measures the yearly percentage change in gross domestic
product.
4) Inflation Rate captures annual changes in consumer prices.
5) IPO Count records the number of initial public offerings each year. For
normalization and variance stabilization, IPO Count was logarithmically
transformed in the regression model.
To examine the data, this study employs the System Generalized Method of Moments
(System GMM), a dynamic panel estimation technique well-suited to addressing key
econometric challenges such as endogeneity, unobserved heterogeneity, and
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autocorrelation. Unlike traditional estimators, System GMM leverages lagged values of the
dependent variable as internal instruments, thereby reducing bias arising from omitted
variables and simultaneity. Moreover, the use of a robust two-step estimation procedure
enhances the efficiency of coefficient estimates by correcting for potential
heteroskedasticity and serial correlation in the error terms. This methodological approach
ensures a more reliable and consistent assessment of how macroeconomic factors influence
capital market deepening across ASEAN economies. The empirical model is formally
specified as follows:
Where:
Code Variable Description
Y¿ : Market Capitalization to GDP Ratio (Market Cap GDP)
Y i ,t −1 : Lag of Market Cap GDP (Dynamic term)
X 1 ,¿¿ : Stock Market Return
X 2 ,¿¿ : GDP Growth Rate
X 3 ,¿¿ : Inflation Rate
X 4 ,¿ ¿ : IPO Count (Log-transformed)
ε¿ : Error term (includes unobserved heterogeneity after differencing)
To ensure the robustness and validity of the dynamic panel model, this study utilizes
the System Generalized Method of Moments (System GMM) estimator, a technique
specifically designed to handle the complexities of panel data, including potential
endogeneity, unobserved heterogeneity, and dynamic interactions among variables. By
incorporating lagged dependent variables as instruments, the model effectively reduces
biases that may arise from omitted variables and reverse causality. For greater reliability,
the estimation employs the Windmeijer-corrected two-step procedure, which generates
robust standard errors that remain consistent even in the presence of heteroskedasticity and
serial correlation. This correction enhances the precision of coefficient estimates, especially
in studies with relatively small samples. Consistent with recent empirical literature, the
application of robust standard errors in GMM estimations is crucial to preventing
misleading inferences and ensuring the credibility of results (Kripfganz, 2019).
3. Results
The descriptive statistics table is crucial as it provides an initial overview of the
distribution, variability, and scale of each key variable used in the study. It highlights substantial
heterogeneity across countries and time, particularly in stock market returns and market
capitalization relative to GDP, indicating the presence of economic volatility and structural
differences in ASEAN capital markets. These variations justify the use of robust dynamic panel
techniques such as System GMM, while also validating the appropriateness and readiness of the
dataset for further econometric analysis.
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The descriptive statistics reveal notable variation across all key variables in the dataset.
Stock market returns range widely from 32.78% to 48%, with a high standard deviation (14.99),
indicating significant volatility in ASEAN equity markets. GDP growth also shows a broad range
(10% to 15%), reflecting diverse economic conditions among member countries. Inflation rates vary
from 1% to 18.58%, suggesting episodes of both deflation and high inflation. The number of IPOs
spans from 1 to 59, highlighting disparities in capital market activity, while Market Capitalization to
GDP ranges from 15% to 269.9%, underscoring structural differences in financial market depth.
Overall, the data demonstrate the heterogeneity and dynamic nature of ASEAN economies,
reinforcing the need for robust econometric modeling.
To ensure the robustness and credibility of the System GMM estimation, it is essential to
conduct a series of diagnostic tests that assess the validity of instruments, the presence of
autocorrelation, and the reliability of coefficient estimates in the context of a small panel dataset.
The following table summarizes these diagnostic checks, which are critical for verifying that the
model meets the core assumptions of dynamic panel estimation. These tests help prevent biased
inference and confirm that the model appropriately captures the structural relationships among
variables across ASEAN countries.
Table 2. System GMM Diagnostic Tests and Model Validity
Test Type Test Statistic p-value Model Validity Interpretation
To validate the robustness and consistency of the dynamic panel estimation, several
diagnostic tests were conducted. The Arellano-Bond test for first-order autocorrelation [AR(1)]
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yielded a z-statistic of -1.52 with a p-value of 0.129, indicating no significant first-order serial
correlation in the differenced residuals. More importantly, the Arellano-Bond test for second-order
autocorrelation [AR(2)] produced a z-statistic of -1.81 and a p-value of 0.070, which is slightly
above the conventional 5% threshold, suggesting no strong evidence of second-order serial
correlation, a key assumption for the validity of the GMM estimator. The Sargan and Hansen tests
of overidentifying restrictions confirm the overall validity of the instrument set, with p-values of
0.985 and 1.000, respectively, both indicating that the instruments are not correlated with the error
term. Additionally, the Difference-in-Hansen test also returns a p-value of 1.000, supporting the
validity of the subset of instruments used in the level equation. With only seven instruments
employed, the model avoids the problem of instrument proliferation, further enhancing the
credibility of the estimation. These results collectively support the internal consistency and
empirical reliability of the two-step System GMM estimator, even under small-sample conditions
with robust standard error adjustment.
This regression table is crucial because it captures the core empirical findings of the study,
revealing which macroeconomic variables significantly influence the Market Capitalization to GDP
ratio in ASEAN countries. The high significance of the lagged Market Cap GDP coefficient
confirms strong path dependence in market development, while the significance of Stock Market
Return and Inflation Rate highlights their role as key economic drivers. Conversely, the
insignificance of GDP Growth and IPO activity invites further reflection on structural or
institutional factors beyond short-term macro trends. Overall, this table provides the analytical
foundation for interpreting the dynamics of stock market growth and drawing meaningful policy
implications.
Based on the System GMM estimation results, the lagged dependent variable [Link] Cap
GDP shows a highly significant and positive coefficient (1.130054, p < 0.01), indicating strong
dynamic persistence in capital market development across ASEAN countries. The variable Stock
Market Return is also statistically significant at the 1% level, with a positive coefficient of 0.980217
(p = 0.007), confirming that better stock performance contributes meaningfully to increases in the
market capitalization-to-GDP ratio. Meanwhile, Inflation Rate presents a significant positive effect
on Market Cap GDP (coefficient = 2.202419, p = 0.037), suggesting that moderate inflation may
support asset revaluation and investment confidence. On the other hand, GDP Growth Rate is found
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capital markets in this region requires not only favorable macroeconomic conditions, but
also deliberate policy design, financial education, and inclusive innovation.
Discussion
The Influence of Stock Market Returns on Market Capitalization-to-GDP Ratio
A growing body of empirical research demonstrates a strong positive linkage
between stock market returns and the Market Capitalization-to-GDP ratio, implying that
improved equity performance contributes significantly to the expansion of market depth
within ASEAN economies. This outcome is consistent with the financial accelerator
hypothesis, which posits that escalating stock valuations enhance corporate balance sheet
strength, alleviate credit frictions, and ultimately encourage higher levels of investment.
Furthermore, emerging literature has revealed the existence of a bidirectional causal
relationship between stock market dynamics and economic growth across several ASEAN
member states, reinforcing the critical role that equity markets play in fostering
macroeconomic development. This interconnectedness directly supports the objectives of
Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by enabling more
inclusive, resilient, and long-term economic advancement through efficient capital
mobilization (Fong et al., 2020; Asmarani & Ningsih, 2023).
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The findings indicate a positive and statistically significant link between the
inflation rate and the Market CaptoGDP ratio. At first glance, this result might seem
counterintuitive, as inflation is often perceived as detrimental to economic stability.
However, this relationship can be interpreted through the lens of moderate inflation
dynamics, where a controlled rise in prices is often accompanied by monetary expansion,
asset price revaluation, and increased liquidity in financial markets. These factors can
collectively boost market capitalization (Nguyen, 2021). Nonetheless, it is important to
recognize that this relationship is not linear. Threshold effects play a critical role: when
inflation surpasses certain levels, its impact on economic growth and financial market
performance tends to reverse. Empirical evidence suggests that high inflation erodes
investor confidence, distorts price signals, and weakens the foundations of financial
development. Thus, while moderate inflation may stimulate market deepening, excessive
inflation undermines financial stability and growth prospects. In this context, maintaining
price stability emerges as a key policy objective. Stable prices not only safeguard investor
confidence but also support sustainable economic growth. Furthermore, a well-regulated
inflation environment contributes to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10
Reduced Inequalities, as it fosters equitable access to financial markets and promotes
inclusive economic participation (Ehigiamusoe et al., 2019; Bouis et al., 2025).
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Limitations
Like any empirical investigation, this study is subject to several limitations that
warrant consideration. First, the reliance on macro-level panel data may obscure significant
heterogeneities at the firm and sectoral levels. Such granular differences—ranging from
industry-specific dynamics to variations in corporate governance—could provide deeper
insights into the mechanisms that drive capital market development but remain undetected
in an aggregated dataset. Second, although the analysis captures key macroeconomic and
market variables, it does not explicitly incorporate institutional factors such as the strength
of investor protection laws, the quality of regulatory frameworks, or levels of financial
literacy. These elements are widely acknowledged as crucial mediators in shaping how
macroeconomic conditions translate into capital market outcomes. Their omission may
limit the explanatory power of the model, particularly in the context of ASEAN countries
where institutional quality varies considerably. Third, the study’s time horizon (2010–
2024), while sufficient for capturing short- to medium-term trends, may fall short in fully
reflecting long-term structural transformations, especially in fast-evolving economies like
Vietnam and the Philippines. Structural reforms, regulatory shifts, and the gradual
maturation of financial systems often unfold over decades, meaning some effects may not
be fully captured within the observed period. Finally, while the use of System GMM
estimation effectively mitigates issues of endogeneity and autocorrelation, the model
remains susceptible to certain econometric challenges. Instrument proliferation can dilute
the power of the Hansen test and compromise the validity of results, while the possibility of
omitted variable bias cannot be entirely ruled out. These methodological constraints,
although addressed to the extent possible, suggest that the findings should be interpreted
with caution and regarded as a foundation for further inquiry rather than definitive
conclusions.
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