Richest 2% Own Half the World's Wealth

kop writes "The richest 2% of adults in the world own more than half of all household wealth, according to a new study by a United Nations research institute. Most previous studies of economic disparity have looked at income, whereas this one looks at wealth — assets minus debts. The survey is based on data for the year 2000. Many figures, especially for developing countries, have had to be estimated. Nonetheless, the authors say it is the most comprehensive study of personal wealth ever undertaken." The study itself is available from the World Institute for Development Economics Research.

Comments

Re:Not just true for humans

[Lord Prox]

Not Quite. Here for more
The top 1% pay about 30% of all taxes
The top 5% pay about 50% of all taxes
and the top 50% pay about 98% of all taxes
Tax breaks for the rich?! DUH only the rich can get 'em cause the botom 50% is getting the money.