Tax Policy and International Direct Investment
Working Paper 3048
DOI 10.3386/w3048
Issue Date
The effects of taxes on direct investment capital outflows are investigated using a theoretical model which integrates the investment and financial decisions of the parent and subsidiary. The resulting marginal qs and costs of capital show that intrafirm investment allocation and tax neutrality results critically hinge on the marginal financing regime. By identifying a channel(s) through which a specific tax policy affects firm decisions, the model evaluates the combined effects of the home country tax system on direct investment. Out analysis suggests that while the 1986 U.S. Tax Reform Act may have an ambiguous effect on the overall level of capital outflows, it may induce more equipment investments to be undertaken abroad.