Empirical tests of theories of financial market integration and segmentation
have predominantly focussed on developed OECD countries and the emerging
markets of Asia Pacific. This paper uses a unique panel of equity market
indices from the principal Southern African Customs Union (SACU) markets. The
paper tests the hypothesis of market integration using a cointegration
approach. Markets that are found to be integrated are then tested for evidence
of Granger causality through an error correction mechanism. Results obtained
using VAR modelling techniques are compared to those using an ARDL model. While
results lend support to existing trade, macroeconomic and developmental
linkages and effects between and within the countries, there is some evidence
for the presence of a regional factor common to African Emerging Markets that
explains causality from Namibia to South Africa. The results support the view
that institution building has progressed, which is considered to be a valuable
contribution to growth promotion policies in SSA and market integration
throughout financial markets in the SADC community.