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Research on the impact of public data openness on urban-rural income inequality

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  • Zou, Guohao
  • Fan, Cunbin
  • Yang, Chufeng

Abstract

Whether public data openness can help realize data elements' value-creation potential, improve urban-rural integration, and reduce urban-rural income inequality requires further investigation. Using panel data from 226 Chinese cities (2010–2021), this study examines whether public data openness reduces income inequality and promotes urban-rural integration. A staggered difference-in-differences model was applied to analyze its impact and mechanisms. Findings reveal that public data openness significantly reduces urban-rural income inequality by lowering institutional transaction costs and enhancing information search matching efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Zou, Guohao & Fan, Cunbin & Yang, Chufeng, 2025. "Research on the impact of public data openness on urban-rural income inequality," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 79(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:79:y:2025:i:c:s1544612325004568
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2025.107193
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