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What Heat Waves Cost the Austrian Economy
Productivity drops in extreme heat – and the economic costs are in the billions.
When measuring wellbeing, GDP is not the whole story
WU economists show why supplementary indicators are needed in addition to GDP
More than GDP: what constitutes prosperity
WU economists show why additional indicators are needed alongside GDP.
Suppressing Innovation Undermines Long-Run Prosperity
What drives family firms’ internationalization?
New WU study shows how governance and culture shape the internationalization of family firms.
Climate policy has helped Austria cut emissions, study shows
Greenhouse gas emissions have been falling for 20 years in Austria. Researchers from WU Vienna University of Economics and Business have investigated how much of this decline can be attributed to climate policies: around a quarter, according to their analysis. The most significant greenhouse gas reductions have been achieved through regulation in the metal industry.
Russian gas: what Austria and Europe have learned from their dependence
Austria's ability to weather Gazprom's recent gas supply halt to OMV highlights the significant progress made since 2022, when Europe faced severe economic risks due to heavy reliance on Russian gas. A study led by the Complexity Science Hub shows how coordinated responses, including gas storage and alternative supply routes, can mitigate potential damage, and offers key lessons for future crises.
How can wealthy nations respond to the baby bust?
In recent decades, fertility rates in high-income countries have steadily declined. A new study analyzed demographic trends and their consequences. The authors emphasize that despite the significant economic challenges posed by low fertility, a strategic and consistent policy response can effectively mitigate most adverse consequences.
CO2 capture: a promising climate technology
Capturing CO2 from the air can complement approaches to reducing CO2 from the source — but depending on how they scale, according to a recent study.
Shifting balances of economic power
Free trade agreements and economic globalization have gone out of fashion: Sanctions, protectionism, and fears cloud the outlook for a prosperous development of international trade relations.
More than just a job: Job guarantee pilot study proves to be a resounding success
Long-term unemployment makes people feel lonely and hopeless. So what can we do to eliminate this problem? A researcher from WU (Vienna University of Economics and Business) has tested an innovative approach: a job guarantee for everyone. The results of an initial pilot project are promising.
Mapping the business world: Is it possible to make a map of the global supply chain network?
Thanks to digitalization, we now have the tools to analyze the global economy more accurately than ever before – with a map of global supply chain networks. This is exactly what WU’s Anton Pichler is working on together with other scientists from various disciplines.