Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
5083946 | International Review of Economics & Finance | 2012 | 15 Pages |
Abstract
This study applies a recently-developed panel smooth transition regression (PSTR) model and takes into account the potential endogeneity biases in order to establish country-specific and time-specific elasticities of insurance premiums with respect to real income for 36 selected countries from the period 1979-2007. The PSTR model endogenously determines the non-linear insurance-income nexus and allows for a continuum of an intermediate regime among extremes. We find overwhelming evidence in support of a non-linear income threshold. The life and non-life insurance premiums are inelastic and elastic with respect to real income, suggesting that they are a necessary good and luxury good respectively. Furthermore, as time goes on, the income elasticities of insurance premiums present a similar upward trend, implying that the impact of economic development on insurance premiums is more important in recent periods.
Related Topics
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Economics and Econometrics
Authors
Chien-Chiang Lee, Yi-Bin Chiu,