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Industrial robot adoption and household entrepreneurship

Author

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  • Song, Zhihui
  • Zhao, Xiaoying
  • Peng, Ziqiang
  • Dai, Yixin

Abstract

Using robot-related data from the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) and household survey data from the China Household Finance Survey (CHFS), this study examines the impact of industrial robot adoption on household entrepreneurial decisions. Our results demonstrate that industrial robot diffusion significantly inhibits household entrepreneurship. More specifically, this negative effect is primarily concentrated in opportunity-driven entrepreneurship, while showing no statistically significant impact on necessity-driven entrepreneurship. Heterogeneity tests indicate that the negative relationship between industrial robot adoption and household entrepreneurship is alleviated in households residing in rural areas and those with more highly educated members. Further analysis reveals that industrial robot adoption suppresses household entrepreneurship by reducing innovation opportunities. Our research deepens the understanding of automation's economic consequences and broadens the comprehension of factors influencing household entrepreneurship.

Suggested Citation

  • Song, Zhihui & Zhao, Xiaoying & Peng, Ziqiang & Dai, Yixin, 2026. "Industrial robot adoption and household entrepreneurship," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 93(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:93:y:2026:i:c:s1544612325027096
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2025.109460
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    References listed on IDEAS

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