How climate change will impact outdoor activities in the US
A new study by MIT researchers shows that climate change will significantly impact outdoor activities in the US, with Florida and other Southeastern states experiencing major drops in
Economics Research
Articles tagged with Economics Research
Sweetened beverage taxes decrease consumption in lower-income households by nearly 50%, UW study finds
A new study from the University of Washington found that lower-income households decreased their purchases of sweetened beverages by nearly 50%, while higher-income households reduced purchases by 18%. The tax was implemented in four U.S. cities and resulted in a significant decline in consumption among lower-income households.
The National Tax Journal is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Musgrave Prize and the 2024 Referee Award
The National Tax Journal recognizes Jason DeBacker, Bradley T. Heim, Anh Tran, and Alexander Yuskavage for their article on paid preparers decreasing tax compliance. The journal also presents the annual Referee Award to Emilie Jackson and Jason DeBacker for their exceptional service as referees.
Climate change is a health emergency too
International experts warn that climate change will have a significant impact on emergency medical services globally, with 62% of respondents saying no assessment or action has been taken. The need for mitigation actions, education, and research is considered crucial in all regions.
The hidden costs of free apps – more than personal data
Researchers found that users pay a price for free mobile apps, including reduced focus, sleep deprivation, and loss of physical contact. Users prefer to make one-time purchases to protect their privacy over using services with hidden costs.
Failed waste policy: We burn more and recycle less than we think
Despite Norway's ambitious circular economy goal, the country incinerates more than 65% of collected waste, with significant gaps in data collection and measurement methods. Researchers propose 18 new methods to improve efficiency, highlighting the need for more accurate reporting on recycling rates.
Understanding how smiling influences relationship building during real-life conversations
A study found that speakers smiled more when listeners smiled more, especially in same-sex conversations. Smile synchronization is essential in creating social bonds and fostering positive feelings.
New world-class research and innovation projects across the UK to support clean, green, sustainable living for all
The UK is investing £170 million in new research and innovation projects to support clean living, tackle climate change, and boost economic growth. The projects will focus on land use transformation, sustainable agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
nTIDE October 2024 Jobs Report: September sees employment gains for people with disabilities amid stabilizing trends
The US employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities rose to 37.5% in September 2024, marking a positive trend after three months of stability. Meanwhile, labor force participation rates remained near historic highs, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and flexibility in the workplace.
How much do avoidable deaths impact the economy?
Two new papers estimate economic value of reducing avoidable deaths worldwide, finding 40 million deaths in 2019 were avoidable. The economic value is equivalent to 23% of annual global income, suggesting health improvements could lead to substantial economic benefits.
Researchers propose a new paradigm for economic performance and sustainability
Researchers introduce the 'prosocial market economy' as a model embedding cooperation, ethical behavior, and sustainability into organizational practices. This approach prioritizes collaboration and collective well-being, fostering long-term economic success and sustainability.
Addressing climate change and inequality: A win-win policy solution
A new study published in Nature Climate Change examines the distributional impacts of climate policies and climate risks. Implementing ambitious climate policies can reduce inequality by redistributing carbon revenues, lowering the Gini index by nearly 2 points.
Public discourse promotes socially responsible behavior
A new study by economists at the University of Zurich finds that engaging in public discourse increases socially responsible market behavior regardless of participants' social norms and values. The researchers conducted three lab experiments with over 2,500 participants and observed a significant increase in trade with fair products wh...
Where flood policy helps most — and where it could do more
A new study reveals the flood insurance program's effects differ greatly among communities, with higher-population and wealthier areas benefiting more from discounts on premiums. Lower-income communities also see benefits, but only in areas with less racial and ethnic diversity, realizing a gain of about $6,000 per household.
Study: Conflicting goals, focus on economic development lead to underperforming streetcar systems
Cities with high-performing streetcar systems prioritize transporting people to desired locations, while those that focus on economic development often experience poor performance. The study highlights the importance of focusing on passenger attraction and coordinated fare policies for successful streetcar systems.
The Vikings were part of a global network trading in ivory from Greenland
Researchers found Vikings traveled extensively for walrus ivory, covering 6,000 km, including interactions with indigenous Arctic populations.
How social structure influences the way people share money
A new study shows that belonging to age-based groups affects finances and health, with kin-based societies experiencing significant improvements in child nutrition. Researchers analyzed cash transfer programs in East Africa, finding that pension payments to seniors reduced malnourishment by 5.5% in kin-based households.
New study reveals impact of chatGPT on public knowledge sharing
A recent study published in PNAS Nexus found that widespread adoption of large language models like ChatGPT led to a significant decline in user activity on Stack Overflow. The study highlights the impact of ChatGPT on public knowledge sharing and its implications for AI's future.
Small accounts, big decisions: How multiple savings impact retirement payout choices
A new study by Dr. Abigail Hurwitz and Prof. Orly Sade found that retirees are more likely to cash out smaller retirement accounts instead of turning them into steady income streams. This behavior can hurt their long-term financial security, leading to less stable income in retirement.
Older people are more swayed by the impulsive actions of others when making financial decisions – new study reveals
A new study published in Communications Psychology found that older adults (60+ years) are more susceptible to social influence when making impulsive financial decisions. In contrast, younger adults tend to stick to their original preference even after seeing others opt for the impulsive option.
WVU researchers say colleges barred from throwing money at student-athletes are offering them multimillion-dollar coaches instead
Researchers found that colleges offer multimillion-dollar coaches instead of throwing money at student-athletes, leading to an arms race in athletics. The study revealed a significant correlation between head coach salaries and team recruitment success, with higher salaries associated with better teams and more victories.
Aversion to inequality drives support for redistribution
Researchers found that people's dislike of both advantageous and disadvantageous inequality influences their support for redistribution policies. Those who strongly dislike both types of inequality are more likely to support policies aimed at reducing income gaps.
UC3M and Universia obtain an ENIA Chair in artificial intelligence in data economy
The UC3M-Universia Chair aims to address the challenges of large tech companies' data use and create a new, transparent and fair personal data economy. Researchers will develop models and algorithms linked to AI that are interpretable and unbiased.
Cancer patients want financial screening early in care, study finds
A Northwestern University study finds that cancer patients prefer their providers assess their financial concerns early in treatment. Most patients (83%) want their providers to reach out regarding financial needs, with 82% preferring this at diagnosis or starting treatment.
People aren’t volunteering as much these days. What gives?
A new study from the University of Georgia finds that economic conditions, especially in disadvantaged communities, contribute to lower volunteering rates. The research suggests that rural areas with higher levels of economic inequality were less likely to volunteer.
Pusan National University researchers develop precise pricing formula for perpetual American strangle options
A team of researchers at Pusan National University developed a pricing formula for perpetual American strangle options (PASOs) using a stochastic volatility model. The formula is accurate and provides a better understanding of the risks and returns associated with PASOs, especially in low-volatility environments.
Global warming's economic blow: Risks rise more rapidly for the rich
A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research confirms that climate change poses significant economic risks to different income groups. The poorest worldwide are particularly vulnerable, but the risk for the wealthy is growing at an alarming rate.
Study reveals lower school attendance on Fridays in England
Researchers at the University of Bath found a significant decrease in school attendance rates on Fridays across England, with a 20% higher absence rate compared to other weekdays. The study suggests that this trend may be linked to beating bank holiday traffic and extended family holidays.
Can green finance effectively reduce carbon dioxide emissions while promoting economic growth?
A study published in Business Strategy and the Environment found that green finance initiatives can significantly reduce CO2 emissions. The researchers also noted that investing in renewable energy is crucial for companies to achieve environmental sustainability.
Smart researchers unveil study linking EV charging stations to increased local business activity
A study by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology found that installing EVCS boosted spending at nearby establishments by 1.4% in 2019, leading to an overall increase of USD 6.7 million. Strategically placed EVCS also stimulated consumer spending in underprivileged areas, creating potential catalysts for economic growth.
Study: EV charging stations boost spending at nearby businesses
A study by MIT researchers found that EV charging stations increase annual spending at nearby businesses by an average of $1,500 in 2019 and $400 from 2021 to 2023. The impact is particularly pronounced for businesses within 100 yards of charging stations and in low-income areas.
New Reichman University study: People in financial distress behave more morally
A new study by Reichman University researchers found that individuals experiencing financial hardship tend to act more ethically, contrary to common beliefs. Despite economic temptation, those in need uphold their moral standards and actually cheat less than more affluent participants.
What’s the frequency? Quarterly reporting aids investors
A new study from the University of Texas at Austin finds that more frequent financial reporting aids investors in predicting future earnings. Quarterly reports lead to better-correlated returns with long-term future earnings, making it easier for investors to forecast and incorporate them into current stock prices.
Lack of competition between petrol stations hits households most in poorest areas
Households in low-income areas face higher petrol price increases when rival fuel stations close compared to high-income areas. Despite new station openings, low-income areas do not benefit from the same drop in prices. The study found that larger chains respond with higher price increases following a rival's exit.
Problem gambling may be on the rise among monthly gamblers in Massachusetts, online surveys suggest
Monthly gamblers in Massachusetts report increased gambling intensity and harms, as well as negative attitudes towards gambling. The proportion of those experiencing problem gambling jumps to 25.6% from 12.7% in 2014.
NSF Grant empowers FAU to explore Caribbean climate crisis with ethnography
Researchers from FAU and UPR will study cultural dimensions of ecological instability in South Florida and Puerto Rico, capturing nuanced ways communities respond to environmental disruptions. The project aims to develop strategies to mitigate harm and enhance adaptability.
Geographic differences in US homicide rates have decreased since the 1970s
A new study by Richard Boylan found that geographic disparities in US homicide rates have decreased since the 1970s, contradicting expectations. Economic and social inequalities between regions have grown, but violent crime rates have fallen, with possible explanations including improved policing and incarceration rates.
Husbands still dominate investment decisions
New research reveals a persistent gender gap in household decision-making, with husbands holding more control over investments and potentially exposing their wives to unwanted financial risks. The study found that this power imbalance can have significant consequences for women's financial well-being and overall security.
New vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from deadly tick-borne disease
A new vaccine created by Mizzou researchers protects cattle from bovine anaplasmosis, a devastating tick-borne disease causing hundreds of millions of dollars in economic losses. The vaccine has been proven to give immunized cattle protection for at least a month and is being discussed with industry partners for future distribution.
Unhealthy commodities—like alcohol and social media—are connected with poor mental health
A study published in PLOS Global Public Health found associations between depression and unhealthy commodities such as alcohol, tobacco, gambling, social media, ultra-processed foods, and air pollution. The review also highlighted links between these commodities and suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.
Women in global fisheries industry fall through the safety net
New research finds women make up 50% of post-harvest fisheries and aquaculture workforce, yet often remain invisible, unpaid or underpaid. The study calls for policy changes to address social justice dimensions of technology development.
How can wealthy nations respond to the baby bust?
A new study analyzes demographic trends, patterns, and consequences of low fertility in high-income countries. Fertility decline poses economic challenges, but a strategic policy response can mitigate most adverse effects. The authors emphasize the importance of designing economies that allow individuals to freely choose their fertilit...
For metro governments, bigger may not be economically better
New research from the University of Texas at Austin finds that metro areas with more separate jurisdictions have higher wages and home values. Jurisdictional competition drives municipalities to choose better policies, leading to a 12% higher economic freedom index and more workers in higher-paying industries.
Pollution drives families to relocate – but only the rich can afford to live in healthier areas
A new study finds that pollution levels significantly impact households' decision to relocate within the US, with poorer families being priced out of healthier areas. Richer households, on the other hand, opt for cleaner environments, earning more than average in their new communities.
Early retirement of coal-fired power plants can be profitable for investors
Researchers at Griffith University found that early retirement of coal-fired power plants can be financially advantageous for investors. The study highlights the potential benefits of accelerating the transition from coal to renewable energy in developing Asian economies., Key findings include: Younger coal plants can potentially be re...
More academic freedom leads to more innovation
A recent study by an international team has established a link between academic freedom and innovative output for the first time. The researchers found that countries with higher levels of academic freedom tend to have more patent applications and citations, indicating a positive correlation between academic freedom and innovation. Con...
The real price of the “zero-price effect”
A study by Tel Aviv University researchers found that homes sold through free classified services received fewer clicks, sold more slowly, and at a lower price than identical homes sold through paid services. This resulted in an average net loss of about 3.5% to 3.8% of the transaction price.
Lehigh University is a core institution of new $26 Million NSF Engineering Research Center
The new ERC EARTH research center will focus on developing sustainable refrigerant technologies and practices to improve quality of life and combat climate change. Lehigh University's team, led by David Vicic, will work on reclamation and repurposing of high-GWP legacy refrigerants.
US Congress members’ wealth statistically linked with ancestors’ slaveholding practices
A new study by Neil Sehgal and Ashwini Sehgal found that US Congress members whose ancestors enslaved 16 or more people had a net worth five times higher than those without slaveholding history. The researchers noted limitations, including lack of information on pre-1776 slavery and potential biases in the dataset.
Illinois researchers develop index to quantify circular bioeconomy
The Illinois researchers developed a new index called the Circularity Index (CI), which measures circularity on a scale from 0 to 1. It includes eight categories: take, make, distribute, use, dispose, recover, remake, and reuse. The CI can be used to evaluate strategies and impacts in bioeconomic systems.
Nighttime light data shows inequities in restoring power after Hurricane Michael
Researchers analyzed nighttime light data to assess power restoration rates in urban and rural areas, finding disparities between socioeconomic status and community type. The study highlights the need for targeted policy solutions to address these disparities and improve disaster recovery.
Larger teams in academic research worsen career prospects, study finds
A new study by Donna Ginther suggests that larger team sizes in academic research negatively impact career prospects. The research found that as the number of authors on papers increases, it becomes harder to discern individual contributions and give credit, affecting job opportunities and research funding.
Empowering women – a key to both sustainable energy and gender justice
A new study shows that empowering women through energy care work can transform community-led renewable energy programmes, promoting gender equality. The research highlights the importance of valuing multiple voices and incorporating diverse practices of care into energy transition policies.
Eco-conscious fashionistas hampered by geographical barriers to return clothing
A new study reveals that eco-friendly activewear companies' post-consumer circular economy policies are hindered by geography, making them ineffective for global customers. The research found that many companies have take-back schemes but restrict them to domestic customers or specific locations, limiting their environmental impact.
Black employees more likely to experience depression after workplace mistreatment
A study by Indiana University Kelley School of Business found that Black employees are more likely to attribute workplace mistreatment to racial prejudice and make a pessimistic attribution. This leads to higher rates of depression compared to white employees. Organisations must create an inclusive workplace to reduce workplace mistrea...
Money trees: WVU researchers looking at local benefits from climate fighting ability in Appalachian forests
A WVU team investigates how different management practices affect Appalachian forest life and carbon sequestration capabilities. Preliminary data reveals changes in species distribution and ecosystem resilience to climate change.
Study quantifies air pollution for NYC subway commuters
A new study quantifies air pollution for NYC subway commuters, revealing disparities in exposure across racial and income groups. The research found that people from lower-income working communities have higher exposures and Black and Hispanic workers experience on average 35% and 23% higher PM2.5 exposure, respectively.
When is too much knowledge a bad thing?
A new study suggests that increased knowledge can backfire when individuals prioritize their own interests over the greater good. The 'knowledge curse' concept, coined by Cornell University economists, highlights the potential for enhanced understanding to hinder cooperation and lead to worse outcomes.
To predict tax revenue, look at corporate earnings
Researchers found that including corporate earnings growth in state budgets improves accuracy, explaining up to 86% of variation in actual revenue collections. This tool is particularly useful for states with diverse industries, and can help avoid midyear cuts and slashing programs later in the year.
Does transparency help or hurt businesses dominated by one-time transactions
A recent study published in the American Economic Review suggests that transparency about past transactions can improve market efficiency when sellers have high profits due to competition. However, it may worsen outcomes when buyers observe previous sales quantities, as sellers are more likely to heavily discount their services.