Finance and Inequality

Finance and Inequality
ISBN-10
1513526545
ISBN-13
9781513526546
Category
Business & Economics
Pages
50
Language
English
Published
2020-01-17
Publisher
International Monetary Fund
Authors
Mr.Martin Cihak, Ms.Ratna Sahay

Description

The study examines empirical relationships between income inequality and three features of finance: depth (financial sector size relative to the economy), inclusion (access to and use of financial services by individuals and firms), and stability (absence of financial distress). Using new data covering a wide range of countries, the analysis finds that the financial sector can play a role in reducing inequality, complementing redistributive fiscal policy. By expanding the provision of financial services to low-income households and small businesses, it can serve as a powerful lever in helping create a more inclusive society but—if not well managed—it can amplify inequalities.

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