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Survival of the Fittest? An Analysis of Self-Employment Duration in Britain

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  • Taylor, Mark P

Abstract

This paper uses data from the British Household Panel Survey to investigate the duration of self-employment spells in Britain. The results suggest that 40 percent of self-employment ventures started since 1991 have not survived their first year in business. Evidence is produced showing that a substantial proportion of self-employment spells are not terminated through bankruptcy but through moves to alternative employment. The fittest, in terms of self-employment survival, are those with no previous unemployment experience but with some work experience, who quit their previous job, and who entered self-employment with some initial capital.

Suggested Citation

  • Taylor, Mark P, 1999. "Survival of the Fittest? An Analysis of Self-Employment Duration in Britain," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 109(454), pages 140-155, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecj:econjl:v:109:y:1999:i:454:p:c140-55
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    References listed on IDEAS

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