Financial integration of GCC banking markets: A non-parametric bootstrap DEA estimation approach

In this paper, we investigate banking sector integration in the Gulf Cooperation Council during the period 1998-2009. The integration inference was derived by testing the convergence of cost efficiency scores. These efficiencies were measured using a smoothed bootstrap procedure that ensures consistency and unbiasedness. The convergence was examined using two tests: a beta convergence test and a sigma convergence test. The two tests show significant convergence, particularly during the transitional period 2003-2009, that witnessed substantial reforms. Therefore, we conclude that integration and harmonization measures taken by the Gulf Cooperation Council Governments have had a significant impact on efficiency and homogeneity of these countries' banking markets.