Wealth

What it is and why it is important

Wealth research investigates the accumulation, distribution, and impact of wealth within and across societies.

Our research helps in developing policies that address economic disparities and promote fairer wealth distribution, thereby enhancing opportunities for upward social mobility across generations.

Key research topics in this field include:

  • Patterns and trends in wealth inequality and its drivers.
  • The effects of wealth disparities on social mobility and economic opportunities.
  • The role of inheritance, savings, and investments in wealth accumulation and intergenerational transfers.

Related Research Papers

Of Cities and Slums

Working Paper

Analytic Approaches to Measuring the Black-White Wealth Gap

Working Paper

Episode #32: Fabian Pfeffer on Wealth Inequality Across Countries

Featured Episode In Wealth

June 30, 2025
Whatever a country's level of income inequality, its level of wealth inequality is even worse—and the two aren't always linked. Fabian Pfeffer joins Steven Durlauf to uncover what drives the wealth gap and how it shapes opportunity across generations.