|
on Urban and Real Estate Economics |
| By: | Gabriel M. Ahlfeldt; Nikodem Szumilo; Jagdish Tripathy |
| Abstract: | We quantify the housing-consumption channel in mortgage demand according to which households borrow more following house-price increases since housing and non-housing consumption are imperfect substitutes. To identify this channel, we take a structural approach to mortgage demand and supply, exploiting exogenous variation in house-price growth and a unique dataset with matched transaction- price and mortgage information. We estimate an elasticity of mortgage borrowing to house-prices of 0.82. Counterfactual analysis of the general-equilibrium of housing and mortgage markets shows that, sans housing-consumption channel, mortgage and house-price growth in the UK would have been 50% and 31% lower, respectively, since the 1990s. |
| Keywords: | House prices, mortgage demand, housing consumption, consumption channel, property taxes |
| JEL: | G11 G21 R21 |
| Date: | 2024–08–02 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bdp:dpaper:0044 |
| By: | Garcia-López, Miquel Àngel; Gómez-Hernández, Luz Yadira |
| Abstract: | This paper aims to establish the impact of two medium-capacity transportation systems (MCTS) on housing prices in Medellín (Colombia): Metroplús, a bus rapid transit (BRT) system, and Tranvía, a tramway system. Using repeated cross-sectional data from the Medellín Quality of Life Survey from 2008 to 2018 and difference-in-differences estimators, we find that Metroplús has a negative impact on the growth of rental prices, whereas Tranvía has a positive impact. We do not find any effect on several other outcomes, such as the perception of quality and coverage of the public transportation in the neighborhoods they serve, and the number of private vehicles in the household. |
| Keywords: | MCTS; public transportation; real state prices |
| JEL: | R40 R58 |
| Date: | 2024–09–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ehl:lserod:124523 |
| By: | Lola Blandin (UNCTAD - United Nations Conference on Trade and Development - United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, GAEL - Laboratoire d'Economie Appliquée = Grenoble Applied Economics Laboratory - UPMF - Université Pierre Mendès France - Grenoble 2 - INRA - Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique); Giovanni Vecchio (UC - Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, IEUT - Instituto de Estudios Urbanos y Territoriales - Facultad de Arquitectura, Diseño y Estudios Urbanos); Ricardo Hurtubia (IEUT - Instituto de Estudios Urbanos y Territoriales - Facultad de Arquitectura, Diseño y Estudios Urbanos, CEDEUS SANTIAGO CHL - Partenaires IRSTEA - IRSTEA - Institut national de recherche en sciences et technologies pour l'environnement et l'agriculture); Ignacio Tiznado-Aitken (University of Toronto) |
| Abstract: | Car dependence is a dimension of transport poverty whose subjective components have been limitedly explored. Research on car dependence highlights the incidence of transport costs, assesses the multidimensional vulnerability of car-dependency and the possibility to access valued opportunities. However, people's perceptions and their perceived ability to access destinations may better reflect the way they move in car dependent settings. In this paper, we aim to examine what are the determinants of perceived accessibility and to which extent perceived accessibility influences mode choices in such areas. Based on a survey carried out in four peripheral and periurban municipalities in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago de Chile, we examine how subjective perceptions of accessibility contribute to explain modal choice in the outskirts. Results show that perceived accessibility has a negative net impact on the utilities for both car and public transport, which means that a low perceived accessibility increases the likelihood of choosing motorized modes. Moreover, residents from peripheral municipalities tend to perceive a higher accessibility than households from periurban areas, who are excluded from the public transport system. These findings show the importance of providing nearby opportunities and convenient alternatives to limit car dependency, especially in periurban areas. |
| Keywords: | Mode choice, Perceived accessibility, Travel behavior, Car dependence, Discrete choice, discrete choice mode choice perceived accessibility travel behavior periphery car dependence, discrete choice, mode choice, perceived accessibility, travel behavior, periphery, car dependence |
| Date: | 2024–06 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04659649 |
| By: | Valeria Merlo; Andreas Schanbacher; Georg U. Thunecke; Georg Wamser |
| Abstract: | This paper studies tax-policy interaction and competition among local governments for both mobile and immobile tax bases. We exploit exogenous changes in the local tax setting of German municipalities due to participation in state debt reduction pro- grams to learn about the size, scope and nature of strategic interaction among local governments. Our results suggest strong and significant tax-policy responses both in corporate and property tax rates. Based on these results, we calculate tax-response function gradients in a range of 0.30 to 0.69. Spatial, political, demographic, and administrative municipality characteristics all influence the tax response qualitatively and quantitatively. |
| Keywords: | Local Public Finance, Tax Competition, Yardstick Competition, Spatial Interaction, Tax-Response Functions |
| JEL: | C21 H71 H73 R59 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:mpi:wpaper:tax-mpg-rps-2023-23 |
| By: | Rosa Sanchis-Guarner; Nikodem Szumilo; Antoine Vernet |
| Abstract: | We study the impact of improved rail access on entrepreneurship rates in England and Wales. We use data from the Census spanning 2001, 2011, and 2021 to analyse self-employment rates in granular geographic areas of around 200 residents. Specifically, we study how they respond to changes in the distance to the nearest train station occurring due to 56 new station openings. We find that all else equal, moving 1 km further away from a station reduces self-employment rates by 0.12 percentage points, with the effect dissipating beyond 7 km. Secondary results suggest that access to rail makes it easier to become self-employed while not making it more attractive compared to employment. Our findings suggest that rail infrastructure improvements can support local entrepreneurship and economic activity, contributing to regional development and reducing economic inequality. |
| Keywords: | entrepreneurship, rail, self-employment |
| JEL: | L26 O18 R11 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_11227 |
| By: | Hong, Guangbin |
| Abstract: | High-skilled workers and high-productivity firms co-locate in large cities. In this paper, I study how the two-sided sorting of workers and firms affects spatial earnings inequality, efficiency of the allocation of workers and firms across cities, and the welfare consequences of place-based policies. I build a general equilibrium model in which heterogeneous workers and firms sort across cities and match within cities. I estimate the model using Canadian matched employer-employee data and decompose the urban earnings premium, finding that worker and firm sorting account for 67% and 27% of this premium, respectively. The decentralized equilibrium is inefficient as low-productivity firms overvalue locating in high-skilled cities. The optimal spatial policy would incentivize high-skilled workers and high-productivity firms to co-locate to a greater extent while redistributing income towards low-earning cities, leading to a 6% increase in social welfare. Model counterfactuals underscore the importance of two-sided sorting when evaluating distributional and aggregate outcomes of place-based policies. |
| Keywords: | Two-sided sorting, matching, spatial inequality, place-based policies, optimal spatial policy |
| JEL: | E25 R12 R13 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:clefwp:300864 |
| By: | Fukushige, Tatsuya; Fitch-Polse, Dillon T. |
| Abstract: | This study examined the sustainability of shared micromobility services using data from 48 cities in the US using a 21-day smartphone travel diary and survey data. Population-weighted analysis indicated a much smaller share of transit connection than in prior reported studies, with more reliable data. However methodological decisions could be a cause for such discrepancies suggesting a sensitivity analysis of this same data may be a good next research step. Results also indicated median VMT reduced per micromobility trip to be roughly 0.15 miles for e-scooter share trips and 0.25 miles for bike share (including e-bike) trips. Models of mode substitution confirm prior evidence of factors affecting car substitution including trip distance as the strongest factor. This study also proposed two frameworks for building a sketch planning tool for examining VMT reduction from future micromobility services. This tool could help cities and regions better plan for the micromobility services to achieve real VMT and GHG reduction goals. While more research is needed to employ this framework, it helps motivate a series of additional research topics to inform a decision support tool for shared micromobility planning. View the NCST Project Webpage |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences, Micromobility, shared mobility, bicycles, e-scooters, e-bikes, mode substitution, transit connection, vehicle miles traveled |
| Date: | 2024–08–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt4qr5t2tw |
| By: | Jonghyun Kim; Donghyeon Yu; Hyoji Choi; Dongwoo Seo; Bogang Jun |
| Abstract: | This study introduces a metric designed to measure urban structures through the economic complexity lens, building on the foundational theories of urban spatial structure, the Central Place Theory (CPT) (Christaller, 1933). Despite the significant contribution in the field of urban studies and geography, CPT has limited in suggesting an index that captures its key ideas. By analyzing various urban big data of Seoul, we demonstrate that PCI and ECI effectively identify the key ideas of CPT, capturing the spatial structure of a city that associated with the distribution of economic activities, infrastructure, and market orientation in line with the CPT. These metrics for urban centrality offer a modern approach to understanding the Central Place Theory and tool for urban planning and regional economic strategies without privacy issues. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.19762 |
| By: | Grillitsch, Markus (CIRCLE, Lund University); Stihl, Linda (CIRCLE, Lund University); Hermelin, Brita (Linköping University) |
| Abstract: | Even though place is associated with the local, place-based policy approaches target the regional level of government. Addressing this conundrum, this paper focuses on the local level studying municipalities’ regional development work in different types of regions in three Nordic countries. Through a comparative study across regional and national contexts, the paper identifies the need to clarify the strategies of municipalities in place-based approaches. The results explain the uneven capabilities and structural constraints of municipalities impacting the viability of the subsidiarity principle bringing policy design and implementation closer to citizens. |
| Keywords: | Change agency; regional development; municipalities; place-based policy; subsidiarity |
| JEL: | R11 R58 |
| Date: | 2024–08–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lucirc:2024_010 |
| By: | Hyoji Choi; Frank Neffke; Donghyeon Yu; Bogang Jun |
| Abstract: | This study explores how the relatedness density of amenities influences consumer buying patterns, focusing on multi-purpose shopping preferences. Using Seoul's credit card data from 2018 to 2023, we find a clear preference for shopping at amenities close to consumers' residences, particularly for trips within a 2 km radius, where relatedness density significantly influences purchasing decisions. The COVID-19 pandemic initially reduced this effect at shorter distances but rebounded in 2023, suggesting a resilient return to pre-pandemic patterns, which vary over regions. Our findings highlight the resilience of local shopping preferences despite economic disruptions, underscoring the importance of amenity-relatedness in urban consumer behavior. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.20587 |
| By: | David Haugh; Axel Purwin; Paulo Santiago |
| Abstract: | The education policy framework and New Zealand’s autonomous school system have many strengths and centres of excellence. New Zealand has a deep pool of highly talented and motivated teaching professionals, but the system is performing below potential. Student achievement is declining and equity is not improving, and outcomes are too variable even in the same school. Many of the support elements are lacking, including a sufficiently detailed curriculum, efficient assessment tools, specialist subject teaching practice and curriculum implementation advice, and initial teacher education tailored to the unique demands the system imposes. The Ministry of Education’s operational capacity was pared back too far. Many improvements can be made without increasing total spending. The Ministry should continue to develop its operational support capacities. The government should better spread best practices, and continue efforts to provide a detailed curriculum, an assessment system and education of teachers and training for boards and principals better informed by data, evaluations, education research and the expertise of the system’s experienced actors. |
| Keywords: | early childhood, education, New Zealand, primary, secondary |
| JEL: | I20 I21 I22 I24 I26 I28 I29 H52 |
| Date: | 2024–08–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:oec:ecoaaa:1816-en |
| By: | Josue Ortega; Gabriel Ziegler; R. Pablo Arribillaga |
| Abstract: | The Efficiency-Adjusted Deferred Acceptance (EADA) mechanism corrects the Pareto-inefficiency of the celebrated Deferred Acceptance (DA) algorithm, assigning every student to a weakly more preferred school. Nonetheless, it is unclear which and how many students do not improve their DA placement under EADA. We show that, despite all its merits, EADA never benefits pupils who are either assigned to their worst-ranked schools or unmatched under DA. It also limits the placement improvement of marginalized students, preserving school segregation. The placement of the worst-off student under EADA may be unreasonably bad, even though significantly more egalitarian allocations are possible. Finally, we provide a bound on the expected number of unimprovable students using a random market approach. Our results help to understand why EADA fails to reduce the inequality generated by DA in empirical evaluations of school choice mechanisms. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.19831 |
| By: | Regina T. Riphahn; Irakli Sauer |
| Abstract: | We investigate the wage assimilation of East Germans who migrated to West Germany after reunification (1990-1999). We compare their wage assimilation to that of ethnic German immigrants from Eastern Bloc countries and international immigrants to West Germany who arrived at the same time. The analysis uses administrative as well as survey data. The results suggest that East Germans faced significant initial earnings disadvantages in West Germany, even conditional on age and education. However, these disadvantages were smaller than those of international immigrants, supporting the beneficial role of cultural similarity. The earnings gap relative to West German natives narrowed over time for all immigrants. These findings are robust to controlling for potentially endogenous return migration and labor force participation. Controls for fixed effects reveal that positive assimilation for East German and international immigrants was concentrated among highly educated immigrants. |
| Keywords: | migration, earnings assimilation, internal migration, labor market integration, cultural similarity, Germany, reunification |
| JEL: | F15 J31 J61 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_11233 |
| By: | Hyoji Choi; Jonghyun Kim; Donghyeon Yu; Bogang Jun |
| Abstract: | This study investigates the impact of the 2018 summer heat wave on urban mobility in Seoul and the role of economic complexity in the region's resilience. Findings from subway and mobile phone data indicate a significant decrease in the floating population during extreme heat wave, underscoring the thermal vulnerability of urban areas. However, urban regions with higher complexity demonstrate resilience, attracting more visitors despite high temperatures. Our results suggest the centrality of economic complexity in urban resilience against climate-induced stressors. Additionally, it implies that high-complexity small businesses' clusters can serve as focal points for sustaining urban vitality in the face of thermal shocks within city. In the long run perspective, our results imply the possibility that people are more concentrated in high complexity region in the era of global warming. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.09795 |
| By: | Hirandas, Lekshmy |
| Abstract: | With an aging state population, it is crucial to understand the factors that contribute to road safety among adults aged 65 and older and identify at-risk neighborhoods for targeted interventions. In this context, this report analyzes fatal and serious injury (FSI) trends and patterns among aging road users, including older pedestrians and bicyclists, with a focus on identifying neighborhoods at risk for crashes based on senior FSI rates. 2178 census tracts (32.7%) were deemed as being potential at-risk neighborhoods, as they all exceeded the state average senior FSI rate of 120 per 100, 000 individuals (0.12%). The report also discusses factors that contribute to road safety among older adults, including physical changes associated with aging and the impact of new mobility technologies. By identifying at-risk neighborhoods and exploring factors that contribute to senior road safety, this report aims to inform targeted interventions to improve road safety for older adults. |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences |
| Date: | 2023–07–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsrrp:qt022007tv |
| By: | Friedrich, Jonathan (CIRCLE, Lund University); Stihl, Linda (CIRCLE, Lund University); Grillitsch, Markus (CIRCLE, Lund University) |
| Abstract: | The circular economy (CE) is argued as a possible model for dealing with value chain instabilities in global production networks. Since geographical proximity is central to unlocking circular potential, x-shoring (including concepts like reshoring, resourcing, or friendshoring) is arguably key to this process. Often, spatial restructurings of the CE are embraced without a critical examination of their multi-scalar effects. Nevertheless, spatial restructuring of the economy inevitably produces winners and losers. To navigate the tensions that arise in the context of uneven development and environmental (in)justice, we present a framework for anticipating plausible socio-economic and socio-environmental effects of x-shoring processes across place, scale, and time. We illustrate our framework with insights from the literature on old industrial regions and cases documented in the Environmental Justice Atlas. Our framework represents a holistic approach that integrates interdisciplinary literature from different disciplines. We discuss the ambivalent effects of x-shoring across space, scale, and time, principles for navigating the tensions that arise, and outline research avenues for a thorough exploration of the geography of x-shoring in the CE and beyond. Because of the ambivalence of these processes, we conclude that research must embrace the complexity of these developments by employing integrative, multi-scalar approaches that empower local agency. |
| Keywords: | global production networks; global value chains; trade-offs; circular economy; anticipation |
| JEL: | F63 F64 |
| Date: | 2024–08–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:lucirc:2024_009 |
| By: | D'Al, Francesco; Santarelli, Enrico; Vivarelli, Marco |
| Abstract: | In this paper we integrate the insights of the Knowledge Spillover Theory of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (KSTE+I) with Schumpeter's idea that innovative entrepreneurs creatively apply available local knowledge, possibly mediated by Marshallian, Jacobian and Porter spillovers. In more detail, in this study we assess the degree of pervasiveness and the level of opportunities brought about by AI technologies by testing the possible correlation between the regional AI knowledge stock and the number of new innovative ventures (that is startups patenting in any technological field in the year of their foundation). Empirically, by focusing on 287 Nuts-2 European regions, we test whether the local AI stock of knowledge exerts an enabling role in fostering innovative entry within AI-related local industries (AI technologies as focused enablers) and within non AI-related local industries, as well (AI technologies as generalised enablers). Results from Negative Binomial fixed-effect and Poisson fixed-effect regressions (controlled for a variety of concurrent drivers of entrepreneurship) reveal that the local AI knowledge stock does promote the spread of innovative startups, so supporting both the KSTE+I approach and the enabling role of AI technologies; however, this relationship is confirmed only with regard to the sole high-tech/AI-related industries. |
| Keywords: | KSTE+I, Artificial Intelligence, innovative entry, enabling technologies |
| JEL: | O33 L26 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:glodps:1473 |
| By: | Ferguson, Beth; Sanguinetti, Angela |
| Abstract: | Micromobility—including bicycles, electric bicycles, and electric scooters—is well-suited to address first- and last-mile connectivity with public transit by bridging the gaps of service for riders. This extends the geographic region where residents are likely to access and exit a transit station, facilitating access to more jobs, services, and recreation. However, public use of micromobility depends on a variety of factors. These include availability of secure parking facilities or other environmental design features at and around public transit stations. UC Davis researchers and urban design experts considered these issues in a case study of the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) heavy rail system. The study included environmental audits at 18 BART stations. The study also hosted an online survey of BART and micromobility users and included interviews with government, industry, and community stakeholders. This policy brief summarizes the findings from this study and provides policy implications. View the NCST Project Webpage |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences, access, bicycles, micromobility, public transit, rail transit stations, scooters, surveys |
| Date: | 2024–08–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt4x38j8p1 |
| By: | Fratesi, Ugo |
| Abstract: | Recent papers show that the impact of Cohesion Policy is not uniform in space but larger, smaller or insignificant depending on the regions. These outcomes mostly depend on the characteristics of each territory (conditioning factors). This paper reviews them and investigates, through descriptive statistical techniques, their presence in European regions. European regions are then classified in terms of need on two dimensions: GDP per capita and GDP growth. Results show that most policy favourable conditioning factors are also factors of growth. As a consequence of that, the potential policy impact is often larger in those regions which are less in need of support. In terms of policy consequence, cohesion policy should remain place-based and fully consider the regional specificities, as well the specificities of the various territories inside a region. However, since the conditioning factors for policy effectiveness are less present in regions more in need, acceptting trade-offs will be required, and in particular one between growth and policy effectiveness on one hand and territorial cohesion on the other. Lagging regions will also require interventions creating framework conditions, and those territorial assets which they are missing. |
| Keywords: | Regional Policy, Cohesion, EU, Conditioning Factors |
| JEL: | R58 R11 R12 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:zewdip:300676 |
| By: | Davide Fiaschi; Angela Parenti; Cristiano Ricci |
| Abstract: | This paper studies the evolution of economic activities using a continuous time-space aggregation-diffusion model, which encompasses competing effects of agglomeration and congestion. To bring the model to the real data, a novel discretization technique over time and space is introduced, which is able to disentangle the spatial effects into pure topography, agglomeration, repulsion, and diffusion forces. The estimate for the Italian municipalities' personal income over the period 2008-2019 supports the models' main predictions and outperforms the most common spatial econometric models used in the literature. This work represents a fundamental step in the development of econometric methods for partial differential equations in spatial economics. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.14267 |
| By: | Fazio, Andrea; Giaccherini, Matilde |
| Abstract: | Building on social identity theory, we suggest that natives from stereotyped groups tend to value cultural distance more and think that immigrants are not good for the economy and the fiscal system. We draw upon research showing that overweight and obese individuals suffer from social stigma and discrimination and we investigate the relationship between high body mass and attitudes toward immigrants in Europe. We exploit the appointment of the Belgian Minister of Health to provide causal evidence that stigmatization and stereotyping contribute to negative attitudes toward immigrants. Furthermore, a survey experiment shows that individuals with a higher body mass index prioritize cultural factors over economic ones when facing immigrants. |
| Keywords: | Attitudes toward Immigrants, Social Identity Theory, Stigma |
| JEL: | J14 J15 J71 Z1 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:glodps:1470 |
| By: | Ozbilen, Basar; Gulhare, Siddhartha; Makino, Keita; Jena, Aurojeet; Iogansen, Xiatian; Loa, Patrick; Lee, Yongsung; Malik, Jai; Circella, Giovanni |
| Abstract: | During the early months of the pandemic, stay-at-home orders and concerns about infection catalyzed a shift toward online activities, such as remote work and e-shopping, resulting in a significant decrease in conventional travel. However, as the effects of the pandemic diminished, the pandemic-induced online activities began to subside, and conventional travel started to rebound. The challenge among transportation planners and policymakers is to determine the lasting effects of the pandemic and adjust the policies accordingly. In the same efforts to understand the evolving travel-related activities and inform policymaking, the 3 Revolutions Future Mobility Program at the University of California, Davis, conducted four waves of mobility surveys between Spring 2020 and Fall 2023. Key findings from the analysis of these data reveal that remote work and a combination of remote work and physical commuting (i.e., hybrid work) emerge as an enduring outcome of the pandemic. The pandemic accelerated the rise of e-shopping, both for grocery and non-grocery purchases, with findings demonstrating the critical influence of socio-demographic factors, including age, gender, and income, on e-shopping adoption and frequency. The findings show that socio-demographic factors such as work status, income level, and work arrangements are associated with household vehicle ownership changes and individual vehicle miles traveled (VMT). In particular, an increase in commute frequency reduces the likelihood of vehicle shedding, while amplifying the likelihood of vehicle acquisition. In the meantime, remote workers exhibit lower commuting VMT but higher non-commuting VMT compared to hybrid workers. The findings demonstrate a similarity between the percentage of respondents who used public transit, bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters for commuting and non-commuting trips to some degree between 2019 and 2023. These insights underscore that adapting to shifting activity and transportation patterns is crucial for policymakers and planners to build a sustainable and inclusive post-pandemic future. |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences, Travel Behavior, COVID-19 Pandemic, Remote Work, Hybrid Work, Online Shopping, Shared Mobility, Vehicle Ownership, Vehicle Miles Traveled, Longitudinal Data |
| Date: | 2024–05–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt59x3z9zb |
| By: | Kevin Riehl; Anastasios Kouvelas; Michail Makridis |
| Abstract: | Traffic engineering aims to control infrastructure and population behavior to achieve optimal usage of road networks. Fairness is fundamental to stimulate cooperation in large populations, and plays an important role in traffic engineering, as it increases the well-being of users, improves driving safety by rule-adherence, and overcomes public resistance at legislative implementation. Despite the importance of fairness, only a few works have translated fairness into the transportation domain, with a focus on transportation planning rather than traffic engineering. This work highlights the importance of fairness when solving conflicts of large populations for scare, public good, road-network resources with traffic engineering, and establishes a connection to the modern fairness theories. Moreover, this work presents a fairness framework that serves when designing traffic engineering solutions, when convincing in public debates with a useful, argumentative tool-set to confront equity considerations, and enables systematic research and design of control systems. |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2408.01309 |
| By: | Giller, James; Compostella, Junia; Iogansen, Xiatian; Young, Mischa; Circella, Giovanni |
| Abstract: | Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), also referred to as ridehailing companies, have experienced rapid growth in the past decade. This report focuses on the quickly evolving transportation patterns resulting from the adoption of ridehailing as part of the efforts accompanying the implementation of the Clean Miles Standard (CMS) regulation. Based on the analysis of survey data collected in four California metropolitan regions before the COVID-19 pandemic, this report summarizes the findings from three studies, focusing on (1) the use of ridehailing among traveler groups with different multimodal travel patterns, (2) the substitution of ridehailing for other modes, and travel induced by ridehailing, and (3) the use of pooled ridehailing services, in which multiple passengers share the same vehicle for all or a portion of their trips. The results from these analyses reveal that transit users are more likely to be ridehailing users. Individuals without a household vehicle and identifying with an underrepresented minority group are more likely to use ridehailing for essential (rather than for discretionary trip) purposes. Over 50% of the ridehailing trips replaced a transit, active, or carpooling trip, or created new vehicle miles. Lower-income individuals, people of color, females, and younger individuals are more likely to choose pooled ridehailing over the single-user ridehailing service. Trips that originate in high-density areas are also more likely to be pooled. Furthermore, being a frequent ridehailing user is associated with greater use of pooled ridehailing, whereas not having to pay for a trip (e.g., a work-related trip paid for by an employer) reduces the likelihood of pooling. |
| Keywords: | Social and Behavioral Sciences, Ridehailing, modal substitution, modal replacement, pooled ridehailing, shared ridehailing, Transportation Network Companies (TNC) |
| Date: | 2024–05–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cdl:itsdav:qt1x6982gf |
| By: | Araujo, Inacio F. (Departamento de Economia, Universidade de São Paulo); Haddad, Eduardo A. (Departamento de Economia, Universidade de São Paulo) |
| Abstract: | This study explores changes in regional inequality and examines distinct adjustment patterns among Brazilian states investigating the role played by interregional trade during economic stagnation. We combine structural decomposition analysis with observed demographic changes to identify the main drivers of change in regional inequality. By focusing on different dimensions of integration, we show that changes in intra-regional and international integration were the main drivers of the observed reduction in regional inequality. However, interregional trade was critical to drive changes in regional value-added, acting as an absorber of structural changes for the richer states. |
| Keywords: | Interregional trade; Domestic trade; Regional disparity; Location of economic activities; Economic recession; Input-output analysis. |
| JEL: | C67 F14 O18 R15 |
| Date: | 2024–08–02 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:nereus:2024_007 |
| By: | Albertus, Michael; Gay, Victor |
| Abstract: | How does the process of building state strength affect social order? We examine how improvements in state communication networks and increased state presence impact rural unrest by combining original and detailed parish-level data from pre-revolutionary France on the expansion of the horse-post network with rural rebellion in this period. Using a staggered difference-in-difference framework, we find that the introduction of a new horse-post relay is associated with more local rebellion. We argue that the main mechanism is increased state presence and visibility. New horse-post relays are strongly associated with more rebellion against high-profile state agents – the military, police, and courts – and public buildings that symbolized and hosted state power. We find no evidence that relays fostered broader rebellion against the nobility or Church, or that the effects stem from informational or infrastructural changes occurring con-temporaneously. Our findings have implications for the scholarly understanding of the co-evolution of states and violence. |
| Keywords: | State-building; rebellion, social order, postal network, Western Europe |
| JEL: | N44 P41 R42 |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:tse:wpaper:129643 |
| By: | Yi Zheng |
| Abstract: | To empirically study the policy impact of a National New Area on the local economy, this paper evaluates the effect of the Zhoushan Archipelago New Area on local GDP growth rate and economic efficiency. By collecting input and output data from 20 prefectural-level cities in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces from 1995 to 2015, we estimate the economic efficiency of these cities using data envelopment analysis. Subsequently, we construct counterfactuals for Zhoushan by selecting comparable cities from the dataset, excluding Zhoushan, and applying a panel data approach. The difference between the actual and counterfactual values for GDP growth rate and economic efficiency in Zhoushan is analyzed to determine the treatment effect of the National New Area policy. The research reveals that in the initial four years, the New Area policy enhanced Zhoushan's economic efficiency but negatively affected its GDP growth rate. This influence gradually disappeared after four years. Further analysis suggests that the policy's effect on GDP growth rate varies with the level of economic development in different regions, having a more substantial impact in less developed areas. Therefore, we conclude that establishing a New Area in relatively undeveloped zones is more advantageous. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.17523 |
| By: | Rodríguez-Puello, Gabriel; Hernandez, Leonidas; Romero-Espinosa, Diana; Rowe, Francisco |
| Abstract: | People often move internationally to improve their personal situation. Yet, integration into the host society can be challenging and have negative immediate consequences on individuals' well-being. This paper explores the relationship between international migration and subjective well-being for a sample of European individuals. We use an instrumental variable panel data approach to estimate the monetary cost of individuals' well-being post-migration. Specifically, we estimate that the average cost of an individual willing to accept the potential negative effects of international migration on their well-being. Our results reveal a negative relationship between international migration and subjective well-being. Our estimates suggest that a migrant is willing to accept an average increase of EUR$1, 838 (roughly USD$2, 535) in their monthly overall income to migrate across international borders and endure a negative impact on their well-being as captured by their level of life satisfaction. This negative association is particularly pronounced among established migrants in comparison with recent migrants, and those from lower-middle-income countries. Our work highlights the importance of studying the determinants of well-being for individuals, and contributes evidence to inform policies seeking to improve the local conditions of recent migrants and their adaptation to the new environment. |
| Date: | 2024–07–22 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:osfxxx:ydbxu |
| By: | DANNY COHEN-ZADA (BGU); ITAY ATTAR (BGU); TODD ELDER (Michigan State University) |
| JEL: | C21 C26 C1 I2 I28 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bgu:wpaper:2406 |
| By: | David K. Evans (Inter-American Development Bank; formerly with the Center for Global Development); Amina Mendez Acosta (Consultant) |
| Abstract: | Campaigns to provide information about the returns to additional years of schooling have been lauded as low-cost ways to boost student engagement in school. We review 13 such programs in low- and middle-income countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America. On average, we find that information campaigns that provide information on the returns to education lead to more accurate student beliefs about the average value of further schooling, but also that those beliefs may be revised either upward or downward, depending on the direction of initial bias. We find positive and significant average impacts on school participation (with an average standardized effect size of 0.02) and on student learning (0.05), with significant variation across studies. Three of the studies with large samples show sizeable impacts on dropout rates specifically. Costs tend to be low, so providing information about the returns to additional years of schooling is likely cost-effective. We discuss variation across studies, design decisions, implementation challenges, heterogeneous effects, and ethical considerations. |
| Keywords: | Education, information, returns to education |
| Date: | 2024–08–19 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cgd:wpaper:699 |
| By: | Briana Ballis (University of California, Merced) |
| Abstract: | Racial disparities in infant health conditions have persisted for decades. However, there is surprisingly limited evidence regarding the long-term consequences of these disparities. Using novel linked administrative data from Texas and the shift to Medicaid Managed Care (MMC), I show that MMC-driven declines in infant health worsened cognitive and noncognitive outcomes for Black children, while MMC-driven enhancements in infant health improved noncognitive outcomes and educational attainment for Hispanics. Effects concentrate in low-value added districts for either demographic, suggesting that the long run impacts of changes to early life health conditions are more pronounced in less effective schools for one’s demographic. |
| Keywords: | racial disparities, infant health, Medicaid, Medicaid Managed Care, MMC, early life health |
| JEL: | I14 I21 I24 I32 I38 J13 J15 J24 |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hka:wpaper:2024-016 |
| By: | Lu, Xinyu (HEC Paris); Spaenjers, Christophe (University of Colorado Boulder - Leeds School of Business) |
| Abstract: | We propose that home buyers and sellers rely on “heuristic hedonic models”: simplified representations of properties’ utility-bearing attributes. We test this hypothesis using public administrative data from France, where properties’ (continuous) estimated energy consumption is summarized by a (discrete) energy label on a scale from A to G. We document substantial misreporting-driven bunching of energy efficiency scores just below the relevant cut-off values, which points to labels’ perceived importance. Estimates of donut RDD models show that house prices drop sharply when energy consumption crosses the boundary to a lower rating. Moreover, we observe larger price discontinuities in areas where the relation between energy efficiency and house values is harder to estimate. Finally, the discontinuities also show up in home sellers’ list prices, suggesting that a simple buyer inattention story is insufficient to explain our findings. |
| Keywords: | energy efficiency; energy labels; house prices; hedonic models; bunching. |
| JEL: | D12 D83 Q58 R12 R28 |
| Date: | 2023–04–17 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ebg:heccah:1483 |
| By: | Federico Echenique; Teddy Mekonnen; M. Bumin Yenmez |
| Abstract: | We use majorization to model comparative diversity in school choice. A population of agents is more diverse than another population of agents if its distribution over groups is less concentrated: being less concentrated takes a specific mathematical meaning borrowed from the theory of majorization. We adapt the standard notion of majorization in order to favor arbitrary distributional objectives, such as population-level distributions over race/ethnicity or socioeconomic status. With school admissions in mind, we axiomatically characterize choice rules that are consistent with modified majorization, and constitute a principled method for admitting a diverse population of students into a school. Two important advantages of our approach is that majorization provides a natural notion of diversity, and that our axioms are independent of any exogenous priority ordering. We compare our choice rule to the leading proposal in the literature, ``reserves and quotas, '' and find ours to be more flexible. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.17589 |
| By: | Mehmood, Tahir |
| Abstract: | This conceptual research article explores the transformative potential of multilingual transformer models, such as BERT, in providing real-time translation and language support in International Baccalaureate (IB) schools. As IB programs are implemented globally, language diversity presents both a challenge and an opportunity to enhance educational experiences. The study investigates how multilingual transformers can bridge language barriers, facilitating communication and understanding among students and teachers from diverse linguistic backgrounds. By leveraging advanced AI technologies, this research demonstrates the practical applications and benefits of real-time translation and language assistance, ultimately promoting inclusivity and enhancing the overall learning environment in IB schools. |
| Date: | 2024–08–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:edarxi:cs4wj |
| By: | Sofia Badini; Esther Gehrke; Friederike Lenel; Claudia Schupp |
| Abstract: | We implement a randomized controlled trial to investigate whether students in lower-secondary school more effectively acquire information about potential career paths if this information is preceded by a task that allows students to explore their own interests and the career information is presented in personalized order. We find that self-exploration in combination with the personalized display increases students’ information acquisition. Students also read about more diverse career paths and shift their focus from occupations that require university education towards those that require a high-school degree. |
| Keywords: | information acquisition, career guidance, education, field experiment |
| JEL: | C93 D83 D91 I21 O15 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_11225 |
| By: | Troncone, Massimo |
| Abstract: | This article argues that in a context of widespread clientelism and poverty, local public goods provision is a tool for mass patronage. Clientelistic incumbents under threat entice economically vulnerable voters into supporting the regime by creating jobs in the construction sector through infrastructural investments. The theory is tested using data on public works projects funded by the Cassa del Mezzogiorno, a massive place-based policy for the development of Southern Italy introduced after WWII. Empirically, I exploit within-politician shocks in competition induced by the electoral rule of the post-war Italian Senate. The results reveal that public works investments increase when Christian democratic senators are threatened in their own districts by the election of a communist senator, that this effect is particularly strong in areas characterized by low levels of employment, and that this distribution generates electoral returns. |
| Date: | 2024–07–26 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:osfxxx:rgz9t |
| By: | Leo Röhlke |
| Abstract: | This study empirically tests the displacement hypothesis, examining whether adolescents' mobile phone use displaces time spent on activities that benefit cognitive development and academic performance. Longitudinal time-use data from a sample of Australian early adolescents (ages 10-13) and a difference-in-differences design are used to model the effect of first mobile phone acquisition on allocation of time to various activities. The results challenge the displacement hypothesis, providing no evidence that mobile phone acquisition displaces enrichment, physical activity or sleep time in early adolescence. However, acquiring a mobile phone is associated with a significant reduction in time spent watching TV, movies, or videos. This suggests the rise in adolescent mobile phone use may partly represent shifting away from traditional screen activities rather than displacing cognitively beneficial activities. Guidelines for parents recommending later ages of mobile phone acquisition are unlikely to affect early adolescents' time spent on non-screen activities. |
| Keywords: | academic performance, early adolescents, difference-in-differences, displacement hypothesis, educational outcomes, enrichment activities, longitudinal data, mobile phones, parental mediation, time use |
| JEL: | J13 O33 |
| Date: | 2024–08–15 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bss:wpaper:49 |
| By: | Michael A. Clemens (Peterson Institute for International Economics) |
| Abstract: | South Korea faces an unprecedented economic crisis driven by rapid population aging, as it approaches a future of negative economic growth. This paper examines the full range of possible policy responses with the potential to restore dynamism to the Korean economy. Contrary to many prior analyses, the author finds that enhanced labor migration to Korea is necessary, sufficient, and feasible. Migration is necessary because in the best forecasts we have, no other class of policy has the quantitative potential to meaningfully offset aging. Migration is sufficient because enhanced temporary labor migration by itself would offset most of Korea's demographic drag on growth over the next 50 years. And migration is feasible because the levels of migration and timescale of the transition would resemble that already carried out by Malaysia and Australia. Many advanced economies will follow in Korea's demographic footsteps in decades to come, and have much to learn from the decisions that the Korean government makes now. |
| Keywords: | Migration, South Korea, Labor, Demography, Economic Growth, Population Aging |
| JEL: | F22 J15 K37 |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iie:wpaper:wp24-18 |
| By: | Araujo, Inacio F. (Departamento de Economia, Universidade de São Paulo); Donaghy, Kieran P. (Department of City and Regional Planning, Cornell University); Haddad, Eduardo A. (Departamento de Economia, Universidade de São Paulo); Hewings, Geoffrey J.D. (Department of Urban & Regional Planning, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) |
| Abstract: | This study develops a methodology to assess the effects of extreme events. This method measures the geographic propagation of indirect impacts of disasters through supply chains. This modeling framework incorporates an inter-regional input-output system to calibrate a computable general equilibrium model. Our methodological approach includes examining the supply and demand constraints caused by the disruptive event. We also model regional resilience through input substitution possibilities. To illustrate the applicability of the methodology, we analyze the higher-order effects of the regional ISIS-created conflict in Iraq between 2014 and 2017. We also extend the general equilibrium model to downscale Iraq’s national economic accounts to the regional level. This strategy projects the post-conflict Iraqi economy at a granular level of spatial aggregation. The model produced for this analysis offers policymakers simulations to identify economic vulnerabilities at the regional and industrial levels and explore alternatives to mitigate the damage caused by extreme events. |
| Keywords: | armed conflict; costs of war; risk analysis; disruptive events; higher-order impacts; CGE model |
| JEL: | C68 R13 |
| Date: | 2024–08–02 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:nereus:2024_006 |
| By: | Jacek Pawlak; John Polak |
| Abstract: | Time sharing between activities remains an indispensable part of everyday activity pattern. However, the issue has not yet been fully acknowledged within the existing time allocation models, potentially resulting in inaccuracies in valuing travel time savings. Therefore this study is aimed at addressing this gap by investigating the potential impact of introducing time sharing within such a framework, as well as factors determining it as represented by travel activities. In doing so, time constraint in the time allocation model of Small was modified to enable sharing the same time interval between different activities. The resulting expression indicated that such an augmentation could lead to lower estimates of value of time as a resource. On the other hand, empirical research based on the data from the National Passenger Survey 2004 used for calibrating cross-nested logit model indicated a number of factors affecting the choice of travel activities. It was discovered that significant include possession of equipment allowing particular activities, e.g. newspaper, paperwork or ICT devices, companionship, gender, length of the journey, frequency of using the service, possibility of working on the train, journey planning in advance, first class travel, termination of the trip in central London, peak-time travel and availability of seating. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.08312 |
| By: | Gillian Oriol (AMU - Aix Marseille Université, CERGAM - Centre d'Études et de Recherche en Gestion d'Aix-Marseille - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - UTLN - Université de Toulon, AMU IMPGT - Institut de management public et de gouvernance territoriale - AMU - Aix Marseille Université); Céline Du Boys (AMU - Aix Marseille Université, CERGAM - Centre d'Études et de Recherche en Gestion d'Aix-Marseille - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - UTLN - Université de Toulon, AMU IMPGT - Institut de management public et de gouvernance territoriale - AMU - Aix Marseille Université); Edina Soldo (AMU IMPGT - Institut de management public et de gouvernance territoriale - AMU - Aix Marseille Université, CERGAM - Centre d'Études et de Recherche en Gestion d'Aix-Marseille - AMU - Aix Marseille Université - UTLN - Université de Toulon, InCIAM - Institut de Créativité et d'Innovation d'Aix-Marseille Université, AMU - Aix Marseille Université) |
| Abstract: | Crises and shocks that shake territories are intensifying and are characterized by increasing frequency and uncertainty (Boin & Lagadec, 2000). Local authorities are on the front line to absorb these shocks and adapt to them. They are in charge of public policies in the fields of transport, waste management and urban planning, all of which pose challenges for the sustainability of territories (Bhagavathula et al., 2021). The heterogeneous and ambiguous nature of the pressures experienced at the local level thwarts pre-established procedures to address them and enhances the need for resilience. Resilience constitutes an innovative, integrative, and unifying approach (Tanguy & Charreyron-Perchet, 2013) where the role of the local authority is to bring actors together around common visions (Soldo, 2018) to meet challenges that require different expertise. Developing resilience capabilities at the organizational or territorial level helps to limit the effects of disruptions, shocks, or crises and promotes a strategic vision suitable to change and adaptation (Duchek, 2020; Williams, 2011). The multi-level nature of resilience implies an interaction between individual, organizational, and territorial levels (Altintas, 2020; Lengnick-Hall et al., 2011; Weick, 1993). Furthermore, the concept of dynamic capabilities, derived from the strategic management literature, provides a framework for understanding how individuals, organizations, or territories evolve despite constraints (Mendez & Mercier, 2006; Teece, 2007). Hence, we mobilize the notion of dynamic resilience capabilities, which we define as the ability to prevent crisis situations, maintain a level of functioning, recover from shocks, and learn from experiences thanks to a continuous reconfiguration of local resources and skills. Top managers influence the strategic choices of the organizations they lead (Hambrick & Mason, 1984), particularly because they are able to decide how to allocate and orchestrate resources (Adner & Helfat, 2003; Augier & Teece, 2009; Helfat & Martin, 2015). Thus, we state that the stance of leaders in the face of local challenges conditions the development of dynamic capabilities for territorial resilience and thus promotes the resilience of the territory. We sought to understand how a network of local authorities engages in the construction of a territorial resilience project. Since local governments have a hierarchical structure, we aim to understand the role of managers when considering and driving internal and external governance modes for enhancing local resilience and adaptation to potential crises. Between the months of June and November 2023, we conducted a comparative study of the cities of Lyon and Grenoble as well as their respective metropolitan areas. Thus, we performed fifty semi-structured interviews (Romelaer, 2005) with public managers (chief executives of local authorities and project managers) involved in change management. The interviews were fully transcribed and analyzed using the Nvivo 14 software. The two territories studied have distinct landscapes and specificities. However, both are faced with the climate urgency and have taken the initiative to strengthen their resilience. The political support and the internal commitment of public managers towards transition are strong. The initial results of this study revealed obstacles and levers in the development of the resilience project. Engaging in territorial resilience on two different administrative levels implies a different understanding of local issues. At the organizational level, this translates into difficulties working with other administrations (State, region, department, municipality). Internally, resilience implies the integration of all services, however the visions and goals of each unit do not always converge due to different priorities on the delegation's agenda. Faced with these challenges, project managers provide support to enhance the coherence of the resilience project. They are a key lever and demonstrate the need for highly qualified internal staff to strengthen organizational resilience. Both cities rely on their potentialities and resources to strengthen their resilience. They have an associative network, legal prerogatives, internal and external funding, and their respective workforce. They are innovative in resources management, as they created new spaces for consultation and collaboration among various actors. Concerning external stakeholders, examples include the citizens' convention on climate or the school of resilience. Internally, chief officers drive management fashions to include the whole organization's staff through proactive approaches, which enhances transversality. Public managers leverage on external pressures to bring about long-term changes, as it was observed with the energy crisis in winter 2022, which influenced public facilities management. |
| Keywords: | Dynamic capability for territorial resilience, Strategic territorial management, Public managers, dynamic capability for territorial resilience strategic territorial management public managers, dynamic capability for territorial resilience, strategic territorial management, public managers |
| Date: | 2024–04–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04647406 |
| By: | Minrui Huang; Zhe (Jasmine) Jiang |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:syd:wpaper:2024-18 |
| By: | Fisher, Ian; Maredia, Mywish K.; Tschirley, David |
| Abstract: | This paper addresses the pressing policy issue of food access and availability in low-income urban settings, particularly in the context of the nutrition transition, urbanization, and evolving food systems. By regressing food expenditure data against proximity-to-outlet measures for various outlet types, the study focuses on estimating distance elasticities—quantifying the responsiveness of household food shopping expenditure to variations in distances to different food outlets. The key finding underscores the significance of household location characteristics over average distance to outlets in predicting the healthiness of food purchases. The research further identifies variations in distance elasticities based on factors such as the main shopper's age, household poverty probability, and location. This study introduces a novel application of distance elasticity, paving the way for future investigations into food environment metrics within urban and peri-urban settings of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The insights gained aim to enhance the understanding of factors influencing food shopping behavior and guide strategies for promoting healthier food options through increased expenditures. |
| Keywords: | Food Consumption/Nutrition/Food Safety, Food Security and Poverty, International Development |
| Date: | 2024–08–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:cfcp15:344303 |
| By: | Akalu, Lingerh Sewnet; Wang, Huashu; Walelign, Solomon Zena; Kassie, Workineh Asmare |
| Abstract: | Large-scale land investments are often pursued as pro-poor investments by governments in developing countries. However, research on their actual impact on local communities offers a mixed picture. This meta-analysis, drawing on estimates of 37 primary studies, sheds light to understand the overall impact of these investments on local communities. Our analysis finds a modest positive average impact (standardized mean effect size of 0.043) of large-scale agricultural investments on local communities' welfare and livelihoods. This suggests that, on average, large- scale agricultural investments can contribute to positive outcomes. Some potential pathways for this benefit include asset building, increasing income and enhancing food security. However, the sub-group analysis show that the average impact is heterogenous across host countries of these investments. For most of the countries the positive significant impact is robust. We discussed the source of these heterogeneity, the impact pathways and publication bias in the primary studies. The overall positive impact, albeit modest, suggests potential for large-scale agricultural investments to contribute to development outcomes. However, the smaller mean effect size and the observed heterogeneity highlight the need for further research to fully understand the nuances of large-scale agricultural investments. |
| Keywords: | Agribusiness |
| Date: | 2024–08–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:cfcp15:344402 |
| By: | Christian Vedel |
| Abstract: | Is geography destiny? What is the role of first-nature geography in determining prosperity? This paper estimates the effect of randomly removing and introducing favorable first-nature geography to a specific region using a difference in difference design. In 1825 a storm created a new natural navigable waterway, bringing trade and prosperity to the otherwise relatively isolated northwestern Denmark. 700 years prior, the same event happened in reverse, when a previous channel closed up between 1086 and 1208. The elasticity of geography-induced market access is estimated to be 1.6, corresponding to 26.7 percent population growth within a generation of the event. Demonstrated mechanisms include trade, fertility, fishing, and the rise of manufacturing. The central finding is replicated in reverse in a register of dated archaeological sites. The 1086-1208 closing caused fewer buildings and sites containing coins. The general insight is the same: First-nature geography determines the levels and location of prosperity. |
| Date: | 2024–08 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2408.00885 |
| By: | Kanyarat Nimtrakool (Department of Logistic Technology and Transportation System Management, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-Ok); Claire Capo (NIMEC - Normandie Innovation Marché Entreprise Consommation - UNICAEN - Université de Caen Normandie - NU - Normandie Université - ULH - Université Le Havre Normandie - NU - Normandie Université - UNIROUEN - Université de Rouen Normandie - NU - Normandie Université - IRIHS - Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Homme et Société - UNIROUEN - Université de Rouen Normandie - NU - Normandie Université) |
| Abstract: | This work in progress investigates the evolution of logistics services in last-mile delivery, specifically in the Urban Logistics Space (ULS) of Cordeliers in Lyon, France. The study explores the current logistics services offered, their advantages and disadvantages, and the needs of existing and potential users. A longitudinal study was conducted using a qualitative method with semi-structured interviews. Key informants included direct stakeholders such as funders, facilitators, operators, existing users, and potential users. Interviews were conducted in 2017 (3 interviews) and 2023 (4 interviews). Data analysis utilized NVivo, employing thematic and content analysis. Key findings reveal a diverse portfolio of logistics services emphasizing operational, technical, relational, included restrictions, and value-added services. Advantages encompass economic, social, environmental, and service aspects. |
| Keywords: | Urban Logistics Space (ULS), Last-mile delivery, Cordeliers (Lyon, France), Logistics services, Urban logistics |
| Date: | 2024–05–29 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04650479 |
| By: | Carl Hase; Johannes Kasinger |
| Abstract: | This paper shows that retailers increase prices in response to organized retail crime, revealing a substantial aspect of retail crime's social costs. We match detailed information on store-level crimes to administrative scanner data from the universe of transactions for cannabis retailers in Washington state. Exploiting quasi-experimental variation from the timing of store-level robberies and burglaries, we find that crimes cause a 1.8% increase in retail prices at victimized stores. Nearby rivals of victimized stores increase prices by a similar amount with a two-month lag. Retailers' price responses are not driven by demand effects, increased wholesale costs, or strategic price responses. Instead, they are consistent with precautionary security expenditures. We find the largest pass-through rates for independent stores and in less concentrated markets. We estimate that crime imposes a 1% "hidden" unit tax on affected stores, implying an annual negative welfare effect of approximately $30.6 million, with consumers bearing two-thirds of this burden. |
| Date: | 2024–07 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:arx:papers:2407.07201 |
| By: | Tatiana Klyachko (RANEPA) |
| Abstract: | In 2023, the main trends which emerged during the coronavirus pandemic and largely consolidated with the start of the special military operation in 2022 continued in the Russian education system. In the higher education, the Russian Federation announced its withdrawal from the Bologna system, and that has already led to the shrinkage of partner relations with European universities and termination of academic mobility of teachers and students, while in school education Russia found itself cut off from international comparative studies of the quality of general education conducted by the OECD – PISA, TIMSS and PIRLS. A shift is observed towards Asian, Arab and Latin American education systems through which, nevertheless, access is also provided to European/American developments in the field of education. At the same time, a new national system is being designed in the higher education system which architecture has been tested since the spring of 2023 in an experimental mode by six universities: the I. Kant Baltic Federal University, the Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University), the National Research Technological University “MISiS†, The Moscow Pedagogical State University, The St. Petersburg Mining University (NRU) and the Tomsk National Research State University. The experiment on the new higher education system will last for three years, but some higher education establishments will be able to use its outputs in their activities even earlier, i.e. before the end of the pilot project. In 2023, as part of the experiment, about 180 new educational programs were developed and they are expected to form the basis for new federal state educational standards (FSES) and create the framework of a new higher education system in Russia |
| Keywords: | Education system, general education, vocational education, distance learning, higher education |
| JEL: | I21 I22 I23 I24 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:gai:ppaper:ppaper-2024-1337 |
| By: | Vuillemey, Guillaume (HEC Paris) |
| Abstract: | I show that home ownership decisions across countries and individuals are shaped by a cultural heritage from agriculture. For centuries, dominant assets in pre-industrial economies were either land or cattle. Consequently, the type of farming prevailing locally shaped preferences and believes about the relative value of immovable and movable assets. This cultural heritage had long-lasting consequences. Today, individuals originating from societies with a history of crop agriculture - where the dominant asset was land - are more likely to be homeowners. For identification, I rely both on home ownership decisions of second-generation immigrants in the US and on instrumental variables. |
| Keywords: | Homeownership; Culture; Persistence; Immovable assets; Movable assets; Agriculture; Land |
| JEL: | G11 G51 R21 |
| Date: | 2023–02–09 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ebg:heccah:1477 |
| By: | Soon, Jan-Jan; Lim, Hock-Eam |
| Abstract: | Does schooling pay off? - a seemingly straightforward question, but it is in fact a puzzle among economists. Answers would differ based on how the returns to schooling are estimated. Among the top concerns is whether such estimations have any causal connotation between the amount of schooling and its returns or earnings. The endogeneity issue arises due to ability bias, where ability is typically related with years of schooling. The impact of schooling would be confounded by ability, hence the difficulty in isolating schooling's causal impact on earnings. To address the concern, we conduct a meta-analysis of 74 empirical studies from which we retrieve returns to schooling coefficients estimated using both the causal instrumental variable and non-causal naïve estimation approaches. Key findings from our meta-analysis suggest an overall impact of 0.898, meaning an additional year of schooling is associated with a 8.98% increase in earnings, on average. We also find that over the years, returns to schooling exhibit an upward trend in general. Probing deeper, our analyses provide statistical evidence that education-related policy factors are driving the results more than family background factors. |
| Keywords: | Returns to schooling, meta-analysis, family background, education-related policy |
| JEL: | C50 I26 I28 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:glodps:1471 |
| By: | Doepke, Matthias; Gaetani, Ruben |
| Abstract: | Why has the college wage premium risen rapidly in the United States since the 1980s but not in European economies such as Germany? We argue that differences in employment protection can account for much of the gap. We develop a model in which firms and workers make relationship-specific investments in skill accumulation. The incentive to invest is stronger when employment protection creates an expectation of long-lasting matches. We argue that changes in the economic environment have reduced relationship-specific investment for less educated workers in the United States, but not for better-protected workers in Germany. |
| JEL: | I23 I20 J24 J31 J41 J63 |
| Date: | 2024–07–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ehl:lserod:121605 |
| By: | Òscar Jordà; Alan M. Taylor |
| Abstract: | A central question in applied research is to estimate the effect of an exogenous intervention or shock on an outcome. The intervention can affect the outcome and controls on impact and over time. Moreover, there can be subsequent feedback between outcomes, controls and the intervention. Many of these interactions can be untangled using local projections. This method’s simplicity makes it a convenient and versatile tool in the empiricist’s kit, one that is generalizable to complex settings. This article reviews the state-of-the art for the practitioner, discusses best practices and possible extensions of local projections methods, along with their limitations. |
| Keywords: | local projections; impulse response; multipliers; bias; inference; instrumental variables; policy evaluation; Kitagawa decomposition; panel data |
| JEL: | C01 C14 C22 C26 C32 C54 |
| Date: | 2024–08–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fip:fedfwp:98669 |
| By: | Bangsund, Dean A.; Hodur, Nancy |
| Keywords: | Community/Rural/Urban Development, Environmental Economics and Policy, Production Economics |
| Date: | 2024–08–21 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ags:nddaae:344617 |
| By: | Luo , Wei (Jinan University); Huang, Wei (Peking University); Park, Albert (Asian Development Bank) |
| Abstract: | We study the influence of social norms in determining the impact of early life exposure to the Great Chinese Famine of 1959–1961 on gender inequality. We model how social norms interact with adverse shocks to affect male and female survival chances and influence subsequent human capital investments. We test these predictions empirically by using the Fifth National Population Census of the People’s Republic of China in 2000 that has information on birthplace and estimate a difference-in-differences model that combines cohort and regional variation in exposure to the famine with regional variation in the culture of son preference. We find that son preference buffers the negative impact of intrauterine famine shocks on cohort male-to-female sex ratios and reduces famine’s impact on gender inequality in health and education. |
| Keywords: | famine; son preference; sex ratios; human capital investment |
| JEL: | I24 I26 J13 J16 |
| Date: | 2024–08–16 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:adbewp:0738 |
| By: | Della Guardia, Anne Chartron; Lake, Milli May; Saidi, Mira |
| Abstract: | The rapid expansion of social safety nets in contexts affected by violence, fragility and forced displacement raises questions about whether such programs can relieve the worst forms of insecurity and vulnerability in affected communities. To answer this question, the authors analyze 394 qualitative interviews from Burkina Faso and Cameroon (West and Central Africa). As the first study of its kind conducting cross-country comparative research in varied security contexts, the authors posit three channels – material, social, and political – through which social protection can shape experiences of violence, fragility and forced displacement. The authors found that social assistance, or social safety nets, built resilience by smoothing consumption and relieving the pressure of unanticipated shocks while programs were ongoing. However, because many of the most vulnerable inhabitants directed transfer spending towards immediate subsistence needs, safety nets rarely resulted in additional income-generating opportunities or enduring material effects beyond the program’s conclusion. Although trends diverged across regions and security contexts, the authors identified tentative evidence of social and political effects, in the form of expanded social networks, cohesion and interdependence among some beneficiary groups, and greater confidence in existing institutions when beneficiaries attributed the safety net to the government. The authors examined these impacts across regions facing distinct levels and types of insecurity. |
| Date: | 2024–06–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:hdnspu:192987 |