Financial markets provide for the efficient allocation of resources within the economy. Financial integration is a phenomenon in which financial markets in neighbouring, regional and/or global economies are closely linked together. In periods of economic growth, being integrated can lead to greater long-term economic benefits. However, in periods of poor growth, being integrated can actually make things worse. If having access to a broader base of capital is a major engine for economic growth, then financial integration is one of the solutions because it facilitates the flow of capital from...