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Precautionary risk-reduction and saving decisions: Two sides of the same coin?

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  • Peter, Richard
  • Hofmann, Annette

Abstract

We provide new results about the comparative static effects of income risk and interest rate risk on optimal risk-reduction and saving decisions. We combine arguments from the risk apportionment literature with monotone comparative statics. Risk reduction and saving are Edgeworth-Pareto substitutes for (mixed) risk averters and Edgeworth-Pareto complements for (mixed) risk lovers. For changes in income risk, risk reduction and saving are Nth-degree risk complements for risk lovers. For changes in interest rate risk, risk reduction and saving are Nth-degree risk substitutes for risk averters. The individual's risk attitude and the source of risk thus co-determine the effects of risk changes on optimal. We also discuss several extensions including multiple loss states, higher-order risk reduction, stochastic dominance, non-separable utility, and inflation risk.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter, Richard & Hofmann, Annette, 2024. "Precautionary risk-reduction and saving decisions: Two sides of the same coin?," Insurance: Mathematics and Economics, Elsevier, vol. 118(C), pages 175-194.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:insuma:v:118:y:2024:i:c:p:175-194
    DOI: 10.1016/j.insmatheco.2024.07.001
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Changes in risk; Precaution; Risk apportionment; Monotone comparative statics; Income risk; Interest rate risk;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty
    • D90 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - General
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • E21 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Consumption; Saving; Wealth
    • G22 - Financial Economics - - Financial Institutions and Services - - - Insurance; Insurance Companies; Actuarial Studies

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