In this episode, the ReSolve team sits down with Daniel Waldenström, a professor of economics with a focus on growth and distribution. Waldenström shares his insights on a range of topics, from the impact of economic crises on societal structures, to the role of policy makers in fostering growth, and the shifting landscape of wealth inequality.

Topics Discussed

• Waldenström's journey into economics, spurred by an interest in societal issues and historical events, particularly the economic crisis Sweden faced in the early 90s

• The importance of understanding both the size of the economic pie and its division, and how this realization shaped Waldenström's book, 'So Richer and More Equal'

• The role of policy makers in fostering growth and the common pitfalls they face, particularly in Europe

• The impact of the Swedish economic crisis in the late 80s and early 90s, centered around real estate and loose lending standards by Swedish banks

• The evolution of wealth distribution over time, with a focus on the shift from a wealth concentration in the hands of a few to a broader dispersion

• The unique case of wealth inequality in the U.S., and how it differs from trends in other Western economies

• The role of educational systems, labor laws, and trade unions in raising people's productivity and income levels

• The impact of asset price appreciation on wealth inequality, and how this has played out differently in the U.S. and Europe

• The role of income and income distribution in wealth inequality, and the implications of capitalization of income

• Waldenström's policy prescriptions based on his research, offering a positive view of capitalism and human ingenuity

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of economic growth, wealth distribution, and the role of policy in shaping these outcomes. Waldenström's insights provide a nuanced perspective on these complex issues, offering valuable strategies for navigating the ever-changing economic landscape.

42: The Grass is Greener?

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