Factor income distribution and growth regimes in Latin America, 1950–2012

Abstract

After a comprehensive review of the literature on economic growth regimes, the author develops an econometric model to determine the type of growth regime prevailing in 16 Latin American countries over the period 1950–2012, using statistical data on the respective wage share and profit share of GDP. After analysing the evolution of factor income distribution in relation to economic growth during the period in question, the author concludes that most Latin American economies have a wage-led growth regime, and that redistribution policies targeted at wages are therefore conducive to economic growth.