Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/333393 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Series/Report no.: 
ZEW Discussion Papers No. 25-057
Publisher: 
ZEW - Leibniz-Zentrum für Europäische Wirtschaftsforschung, Mannheim
Abstract: 
We provide experimental evidence on how employers adjust expectations to automation risk in high-skill, white-collar work. Using a randomized information intervention among tax advisors in Germany, we show that firms systematically underestimate automatability. Information provision raises risk perceptions, especially for routine-intensive roles. Yet, it leaves short-run hiring plans unchanged. Instead, updated beliefs increase productivity and financial expectations with minor wage adjustments, implying within-firm inequality like limited rent-sharing. Employers also anticipate new tasks in legal tech, compliance, and AI interaction, and report higher training and adoption intentions.
Subjects: 
Artificial Intelligence
Automation
Technological Change
Innovation
Technology Adoption
Firm Expectations
Belief Updating
Expertise
Labor Demand
White Collar Jobs
Training
JEL: 
J23
J24
D22
D84
O33
C93
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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