The economy matters for everybody. At RWI we analyze what happens in the economy, why it happens, and which consequences changes in economic conditions and policies have for the individual and the society as a whole. With its research the Institute assists policy-makers and provides a basis for decision-making. It also assesses political measures. Furthermore, as a publicly funded research institute RWI wants to inform about economic issues, in a way that furthers a better understanding of economic processes among the wider public.