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Minimum Wages and Work Pressure

Author

Listed:
  • Markus Nagler
  • Erwin Winkler

Abstract

A large literature investigates the employment effects of minimum wages, with comparatively little evidence on other adjustment margins. In this paper, we analyze the impact of a nationwide introduction of minimum wages in Germany on employer-induced work pressure, using detailed worker-level survey data. Applying a difference-in-differences approach, we show that the introduction of minimum wages increased work pressure in occupations more exposed to the minimum wage. The increase in work pressure cannot be explained by compositional changes in terms of demographics, job complexity, or hours worked.

Suggested Citation

  • Markus Nagler & Erwin Winkler, 2026. "Minimum Wages and Work Pressure," CESifo Working Paper Series 12460, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_12460
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J28 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Safety; Job Satisfaction; Related Public Policy
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J32 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Nonwage Labor Costs and Benefits; Retirement Plans; Private Pensions
    • J33 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Compensation Packages; Payment Methods
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • H80 - Public Economics - - Miscellaneous Issues - - - General
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being
    • I38 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs
    • K31 - Law and Economics - - Other Substantive Areas of Law - - - Labor Law

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