Finance and inequality : theory and evidence, Vol. 1 of 1

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Finance and inequality : theory and evidence

Author:	Demirguc-Kunt, Asli; Levine, Ross;	Collection Title:	Policy Research working paper ; no. WPS 4967
Country:	World;	Date Stored:	2009/06/18
Document Date:	2009/06/01	Document Type:	Policy Research Working Paper
Language:	English	Major Sector:	Finance
Rel. Proj ID:	1W-Program Research Proposal In Finance -- -- P107616;	Region:	The World Region
Report Number:	WPS4967	Sub Sectors:	General finance sector
SubTopics:	Access to Finance; Economic Theory & Research; Debt Markets; ; Inequality	Volume No:	1 of 1

Summary: This paper critically reviews the literature on finance and inequality, highlighting substantive gaps in the literature. Finance plays a crucial role in most theories of persistent inequality. Unsurprisingly, therefore, economic theory provides a rich set of predictions concerning both the impact of finance on inequality and about the relevant mechanisms. Although subject to ample qualifications, the bulk of empirical research suggests that improvements in financial contracts, markets, and intermediaries expand economic opportunities and reduce inequality. Yet, there is a shortage of theoretical and empirical research on the potentially enormous impact of formal financial sector policies, such as bank regulations and securities law, on persistent inequality. Furthermore, there is no conceptual framework for considering the joint and endogenous evolution of finance, inequality, and economic growth.


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