Using annual time series data (1978-2010), the present paper examines the nexus between financial intermediation development and economic fluctuation in China. The time series properties of the data are analyzed by bounds testing approach, ARDL model and vector error-correction model. The empirical results show that, there is long-term negative equilibrium relationship between financial intermediation development and economic fluctuation margin. However, although the short-term dynamics of volatility in economy growth can make adjustments in light of the long-term equilibrium relationship, it is not enough for economic fluctuation margin to revert to the equilibrium only through the error correction mechanism. Meanwhile, using the Granger causality test based on error correction model, the present paper finds the empirical evidence to support unidirectional Granger causality from financial intermediation development to economic fluctuation margin.

Modern financial development theories suggest that, financial development can promote technological progress and long-term economic growth. Based on the Chinese mainland provincial panel data, the paper tests empirically the relation between financial intermediation development and total factor productivity growth. In terms of the degree-of-freedom of bank loan decision-making, the ratio of loans of private enterprises and individuals to total loans is used to measure the development of Chinese financial intermediation. This paper finds that financial intermediation development significantly promotes total factor productivity growth when controlling for other variables, such as capital formation rate, foreign direct investment, government intervention and the urbanization level