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Investment Incentives and the Discounting of Depreciation Allowances

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  • Lawrence H. Summers

Abstract

This paper examines the discounting of depreciation allowances both theoretically and empirically. Economic theory suggests that depreciation tax shields should be discounted at the after tax riskless rates. However, a survey of 200 major corporations indicates that they employ much higher discount rates to depreciation allowances. Typical discount rates are in the 15 percent range. This finding suggests that "frontloaded" incentives like the ITC provide maximal stimulus to corporate investment.

Suggested Citation

  • Lawrence H. Summers, 1986. "Investment Incentives and the Discounting of Depreciation Allowances," NBER Working Papers 1941, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:1941
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    1. Roger H. Gordon & James R. Hines, Jr. & Lawrence H. Summers, 1987. "Notes on the Tax Treatment of Structures," NBER Chapters, in: The Effects of Taxation on Capital Accumulation, pages 223-258, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    2. Ruback, Richard S., 1986. "Calculating the market value of riskless cash flows," Journal of Financial Economics, Elsevier, vol. 15(3), pages 323-339, March.
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