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Evidence from the dead: new estimates of wealth inequality based on the distribution of estates

Author

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  • Alvaredo, Facundo
  • Berman, Yonatan
  • Morelli, Salvatore

Abstract

This paper examines the estimation of the distribution of wealth using estates left at death. We establish formal conditions for implementing a simplified version of the classic estate multiplier method, relying solely on minimal information about estates and mortality. These conditions are empirically validated, and the simplified approach is applied to produce new long-run top wealth share series for Belgium, Japan, and South Africa, where estate data have previously been underutilized. This method holds potential for expanding the range of countries and years in which wealth concentration can be estimated, especially where estate data exist but the standard method with heterogeneous multipliers is inapplicable.

Suggested Citation

  • Alvaredo, Facundo & Berman, Yonatan & Morelli, Salvatore, 2025. "Evidence from the dead: new estimates of wealth inequality based on the distribution of estates," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 127181, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:127181
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    File URL: http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/127181/
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    mortality rates; public economics; wealth inequality; estate tax;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D30 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - General
    • H20 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - General

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