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German Public Perceptions of Economic and Financial Crime
A recent study published in the journal Systems has shed light on the public’s perceptions of economic and financial crime in Germany. The research, conducted by Sandra Clement and Monica Violeta Achim, surveyed over 1,000 participants to gather insights into their attitudes towards paying taxes, corruption, money laundering, and bank transactions.
Tax Compliance
According to the findings, a significant majority of respondents (72%) reported that they or those around them pay their taxes long before the deadline. However, when it comes to receiving receipts for purchases, only about half (52%) of participants consistently receive receipts from shops, restaurants, and other establishments.
Perceptions of Corruption
The survey also revealed that Germans have varying perceptions of corruption in public institutions. While 35% of respondents believed that corruption is at a low level, 27% reported a medium level of corruption, and 22% thought it was high.
Money Laundering
In terms of money laundering, the study found that about one-third (34%) of participants are bothered by banks asking for details on the provenance of their money or the destination of transactions. Meanwhile, around half (49%) of respondents were willing to provide the required information, citing the importance of banks’ “know your clients” principle.
Age and Gender Differences
The research also explored age and gender differences in perceptions of economic and financial crime. Younger individuals (16-25 years old) were more likely to report a higher level of corruption, while older participants (46-55 years old) were more skeptical about bank transactions.
Implications for Policymakers and Businesses
This study provides valuable insights into the German public’s attitudes towards economic and financial crime. The findings have implications for policymakers and businesses seeking to promote transparency, accountability, and trust in the economy.
Source: Clement, S., & Achim, M. V. (2023). Comparative Case Study on Economic and Financial Crime in Germany and Romania. In Achim, M. V. (Eds.), Economic and Financial Crime, Sustainability, and Good Governance. Springer, Cham. DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-34082-6_1