The Sicilian Economy: An empirical analysis of Sicilian enterprises = The Sicilian Economy: An econometric analysis of Sicilian enterprises

This thesis covers the historical, economic, and business dynamics of Sicily, pointing out the root causes of the persistent economic problems and searching for new opportunities. Despite its rich cultural heritage and its strategic importance, Sicily has always been affected by economic disparities in comparison with mainland Italy. This work investigates the historical trend of the island, analyzing how the post-unification policies have contributed to its economic stagnation. It then assesses Sicily's economic performance over the last 30 years, focusing on key indicators such as GDP, employment, and foreign trade, with particular attention to the tourism sector's role in regional development. At the core of the research is an econometric analysis of 58,000 Sicilian companies from 2013 to 2022, analyzing trends in revenues, profitability, indebtedness, and sectoral dynamics in order to find patterns of success and determinants of business growth. This report compares provincial and sectoral dynamics, outlines economic disparities, and pinpoints potential strategies for revitalization. It integrates historical, economic, and business perspectives into one overall analysis regarding the strengths and weaknesses of Sicily. The thesis provides an overview of how to achieve sustainable economic growth, underlining the need for innovation, investment in infrastructure, and strategic policies to achieve the full economic potential of the island in Italy and Europe.