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Estimating Discount Functions with Consumption Choices over the Lifecycle

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  • David Laibson
  • Sean Chanwook Lee
  • Peter Maxted
  • Andrea Repetto
  • Jeremy Tobacman

Abstract

We estimate β-δ time preferences and relative risk aversion (RRA) using a lifecycle model including stochastic income, liquid and illiquid assets, credit cards, dependents, Social Security, mortality, and bequests. Preference parameters are identified by cross-tabulating four lifecycle age intervals and four balance sheet moments: the proportion of households carrying (i.e., revolving) credit card debt, average carried credit card debt, average net wealth among households carrying credit card debt, and average net wealth among households not carrying credit card debt. The sixteen moments are approximately matched by (MSM) parameter estimates β = 0:50, δ = 0:99, and RRA = 1:3.

Suggested Citation

  • David Laibson & Sean Chanwook Lee & Peter Maxted & Andrea Repetto & Jeremy Tobacman, 2007. "Estimating Discount Functions with Consumption Choices over the Lifecycle," NBER Working Papers 13314, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:13314
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • E21 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Consumption; Saving; Wealth

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