Ekonomski pregled, Vol. 77 No. 5, 2026.
Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.32910/ep.77.5.1
Inflation Inequality and its Structural Determinants: A Microdata Level Analysis
Marina Tkalec
Sažetak
The paper analyses the determinants of inflation inequality in Croatia (2019–2025) using microdata from the Household Budget Survey. A pooled repeated cross-sections regression and the LASSO method were used to identify socioeconomic characteristics that predict exposure to price increases. What stands out in our analysis is how income levels fundamentally dictate the way inflation hits different citizens. The heavy burden on lower-income groups stems directly from the structural inelasticity of their spending; when your budget is tied up in essentials like food and heat, there is simply no room to switch to cheaper alternatives. Looking closer at the bottom income decile, the data shows that singles and large families are in a much tougher spot, while age plays a surprisingly small role. Our LASSO results also point to a link between physical assets and inflation rates. Interestingly, having a car or a freezer makes a household more vulnerable to energy shocks, yet higher housing standards and air conditioning somehow act as a buffer. Ultimately, the takeaway is clear: anti-inflation measures need to be progressive and tightly focused on energy-vulnerable and specific demographic groups.
Ključne riječi
inflation inequality; households inflation; Croatia; consumption heterogeneity; LASSO regression.
Hrčak ID:
352998
URI
Datum izdavanja:
3.11.2026.
Posjeta: 0 *