La función del trading financiero en el crecimiento económico del Ecuador

Abstract

This research analyzes the role of digital commerce in Ecuador's economic growth, an activity that has gained relevance due to digitization, dollarization, and the absence of a local stock exchange. Its justification lies in the need to understand its real impact, given that it operates mainly outside the formal financial system, raising questions about capital flight, tax evasion, and macroeconomic stability. The study identifies the main financial assets traded by operators in Ecuador and the execution mechanisms, explores the challenges and opportunities of trading to contribute to economic growth, and assesses its effects on the country's macroeconomic indicators. A qualitative approach was adopted with a non-experimental design and a descriptive-analytical scope, using five semi-structured interviews with experienced operators and specialists in the financial sector in Ecuador. The results reveal that the trader profile is that of a young person with higher education who trades on international markets through digital platforms, preferring the foreign exchange market, cryptocurrencies, and stock indices. Significant regulatory gaps, high levels of tax evasion, and difficulties in accurately measuring capital flows are observed.It is concluded that, although trading represents an opportunity for financial diversification, its sustainable contribution to economic growth requires a clear regulatory framework, digital financial education, and better measurement and taxation mechanisms.