We host different speakers at our Economic Theory & Policy Seminar. 

Upcoming topics and speakers will be posted below.

09. March 2026, 16:00 until 17:30

Economic Theory & Policy Seminar / F. Kindermann (Univ. Regensburg) / Unequal life span and redistribution

Seminar

Fabian Kindermann will give a talk at our Economic Theory and Policy Seminar.

 

Fabian Kindermann (University of Regensburg)

“Unequal life span and redistribution” 
(joint with Sebastian Kunz)

Inequality in life expectancy across individuals is large, and it shows a strong correlation with income. But does this critical dimension of inequality, extending beyond income and wealth, call for additional fiscal redistribution? In this paper, we explore how systematic differences in life expectancy and health influence optimal fiscal redistribution. We propose a parsimonious modeling framework that allows us to immediately point to the mechanisms that shape the optimal fiscal tax and transfer system when individuals differ in their life expectancy. Theoretically, we demonstrate that heterogeneity in life expectancy alone prompts a utilitarian government to redistribute from individuals with shorter to those with longer life expectancy.  However, if we consider that health status may also impact on the ability to enjoy late life consumption, this redistribution can be reversed. We then develop and calibrate a quantitative life-cycle model with heterogeneous agents that differ in income and health to study optimal fiscal redistribution through the pension system.

Calendar entry
Event location
TU Wien
1040 Vienna
Wiedner Hauptstr. 8-10, Seminarroom: Sem.R. DA green 04 (Freihaus Building, 4th floor, green area)
Organiser
ECON
Julia Hutter
julia.hutter@tuwien.ac.at
Public
Yes
Entrance fee
No
Registration required
No
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