Year: 2019
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This thesis presents three empirical studies on household finance. The thesis is inspired by the following phenomena: (1) the development of household finance; (2) the importance of enhancing financial inclusion; (3) the rising prevalence of obesity in western countries; (4) the global ageing challenge. \n \nUsing the China Household Finance Survey, I investigate the determinants of financial inclusion, focusing on the role played by informal finance. I test the extent to which financial inclusion affects households’ consumption. My findings suggest that enhancing financial inclusion in China may play an important role in rebalancing the economy towards domestic consumption. \n \nUsing the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, I investigate the extent to which households’ consumption profile changes after health shocks. My findings suggest that non-medical consumption is generally insured against health shocks in China. \n \nUsing the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, I find a positive association between financial stress and bodyweight in Europe. I find that individuals are more likely to respond to self-perceived financial stress than to objective levels of debt. Thus, policies aimed at improving citizens’ ability to cope with financial stress may play a role in tackling the obesity epidemic in Europe.
Author: LI Dan-ying
Language: English
Subfield: Finance
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2964581677