Abstract

We offer a new explanation for why taxes have become less redistributive in many countries while the concentration of incomes has increased. Our argument is based on the prevalence of incentive contracts in modern economies, in conjunction with increased product market integration. Globalization widens the spread of project returns and makes contract choices more responsive to tax changes. This can result in a lower optimal income tax rate while simultaneously increasing the income share of top earners. These results are confirmed in a calibrated version of our model based on U.S. income data.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.