The Economic Importance of Financial Literacy: Theory and Evidence

Annamaria Lusardi () and Olivia Mitchell

No 18952, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: In this paper, we undertake an assessment of the rapidly growing body of research on financial literacy. We start with an overview of theoretical research which casts financial knowledge as a form of investment in human capital. Endogenizing financial knowledge has important implications for welfare as well as policies intended to enhance levels of financial knowledge in the larger population. Next, we draw on recent surveys to establish how much (or how little) people know and identify the least financially savvy population subgroups. This is followed by an examination of the impact of financial literacy on economic decision-making in the United States and elsewhere. While the literature is still growing, conclusions may be drawn about the effects and consequences of financial illiteracy and what works to remedy these gaps. A final section offers thoughts on what remains to be learned if researchers are to better inform theoretical and empirical models as well as public policy.

JEL-codes: D91 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2013-04
Note: AG
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (41)

Published as Annamaria Lusardi & Olivia S. Mitchell, 2014. "The Economic Importance of Financial Literacy: Theory and Evidence," Journal of Economic Literature, American Economic Association, vol. 52(1), pages 5-44, March.

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Journal Article: The Economic Importance of Financial Literacy: Theory and Evidence (2014)
Working Paper: The Economic Importance of Financial Literacy: Theory and Evidence (2013)
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