Identifikation von Sparprofilen im Lebenszyklus

Abstract

A key element of houshold behavior, saving is still not satisfactorily understood. The seminal lif-cycle theory of saving by Modigliani et al has been augmented by the consideration of liquidity constraints, mortality, morbidity, income, interest, and other uncertaities, and, more recently, by behavioral elements. Each of these amendments explains part of saving behavior. However, contradictions remain widespread. This paper poses the question in how far observable age-saving profiles can identify competing theories of saving behavior. The paper departs from the age-saving profiles observed in Germany and compares them with age-saving profiles that were simulated using different variants of augmented life-cycle saving theories. It shows that age-saving profiles per se cannot separate competing theories of saving behavior. This means that the estimations of Euler-equation are not identified.