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Bequests, Taxation and the Distribution of Wealth in a General Equilibrium Model

Author

Listed:
  • Christian Kleiber
  • Martin Sexauer
  • Klaus Wälde
Abstract
This paper examines the role of bequests and of taxation on bequests for the distribution of wealth. We investigate a model with overlapping generations and heterogenous households where parents derive utility directly from their bequests. Using the coefficient of variation as the measure of inequality, bequests per se diminish the inequality of wealth since they raise private savings and hence average wealth holdings more than the variance of wealth. From a policy perspective, taxing bequests and redistributing government revenue lump-sum among the young generation further decreases wealth inequality.

Suggested Citation

  • Christian Kleiber & Martin Sexauer & Klaus Wälde, 2006. "Bequests, Taxation and the Distribution of Wealth in a General Equilibrium Model," CESifo Working Paper Series 1723, CESifo.
  • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_1723
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    bequest; taxation; wealth inequality; OLG model; analytical solution;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • H23 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Externalities; Redistributive Effects; Environmental Taxes and Subsidies

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