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Income inequality convergence: Evidence from the World Inequality Database

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  • Kyungmin Kim

    (Keimyung University)

Abstract

This paper analyzes the hypothesis of inequality convergence for the subsamples of developing and developed countries over the period 1980-2020 using the World Inequality Database (WID.world). To that end, I apply club convergence techniques, which allow for transitional heterogeneity. The results from the analysis of the top 10 percent income share reveal that there are different factors driving inequality across countries other than technological change and globalization. In contrast, the evolution of the top 1 percent income share follows a more synchronized pattern across developed and developing countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Kyungmin Kim, 2022. "Income inequality convergence: Evidence from the World Inequality Database," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 42(4), pages 1858-1873.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-22-00486
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Income inequality; convergence; clubs;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D3 - Microeconomics - - Distribution
    • O1 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development

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