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Estimating the Size of Bequests in Japan: 1986-1994

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  • Shimono Keiko
  • Ishikawa Miho

Abstract

In this paper, we present a simple method for estimating the amount and the size of bequests, which is applicable to other countries as well, because it needs only four different kinds of published aggregate data. We estimate the amount of bequests in Japan for 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992 and 1994 - the period of the Japanese bubble economy and the subsequent recession. Bequests, however, have continued to increase with ageing population from 40 to 60 per cent of net household assets and 30 to 40 per cent of national wealth even in the current recession. Our study confirms the Importance of bequest, even although only one in four Japanese has an intended bequest motive. [D39, E21, H31]

Suggested Citation

  • Shimono Keiko & Ishikawa Miho, 2002. "Estimating the Size of Bequests in Japan: 1986-1994," International Economic Journal, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 16(3), pages 1-21.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:intecj:v:16:y:2002:i:3:p:1-21
    DOI: 10.1080/10168730200000018
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