The paper has significant methodological and data transparency issues, particularly in its interpolation of annual data into quarterly data without addressing potential distortions. The application of the QARDL model lacks justification, and the study does not adequately control for endogeneity or omitted variable bias. Additionally, the Granger causality results may be misinterpreted as causal relationships rather than mere associations. I recommend that the authors thoroughly address these issues to enhance the study’s methodological robustness and ensure greater clarity and reliability in its conclusions.
