The current short expert report commissioned by the AWO Bundesverband e.V. sheds light on the distributional effects of the tax allowances for children. In particular, the allowance for care, education and training costs (BEA) currently favours high-income households more than low-income families. The study analyses how halving the CEA or reducing it to 300 euros would affect different groups of households.
The economic impact of e-lending in public libraries on the consumer book market
On behalf of the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media (BKM), DIW Econ analysed the economic effects of e-lending on the German public book market. In its coalition agreement, the German government established the goal of creating a fair framework conditions for e-lending in public libraries. The study now presented by DIW Econ aims to provide a comprehensive empirical basis for this.
Requirements for the fulfilment of the channelling mandate of the State Treaty: the example of lotteries and commercial gaming machines
The development of the regulatory framework and the offer of the gambling segments DLTB lotteries and commercial gaming machines has been very different over the last 30 years, although both sectors have the mandate to channel gambling into legal channels by offering attractive games. In this study, commissioned by VDAI, DIW Econ examines the relationship between the design and adaptation of products over time, particularly in the area of stakes and winnings, and successful channelling in both sectors.
Cost of (no) basic child allowance: long-term costs of child poverty
One in five German households with children lives below the at-risk-of-poverty threshold. Germany’s current coalition agreement aims to strengthen families and lift children out of poverty. Against this background, the basic child allowance is currently under discussion. In the public debate, however, the long-term societal costs of child poverty are hardly ever compared with the costs of measures against child poverty. Yet, the costs are significant and occur in the areas such as health, education and social participation. Scenario analyses confirm that policy measures can be effective in reducing child poverty. Investing in children can therefore lead to substantial fiscal savings in the long run.
The vending industry between regulation and economic trends since 1993 – update 2023
The vending industry is currently facing a variety of challenges. Rising operating costs, the decline in floor space in the hospitality industry, growing energy costs and inflation, the COVID-19 pandemic as well as increasing digital competition are putting providers of slot machines under increasing pressure. At the same time, there is only limited legal room for manoeuvre for the vending machine industry to counteract the changed economic conditions by adjusting prices, the quantity offered and via changes to product characteristics.