Table 1.

Assumptions and key indicators underlying four asset-based wealth measures.

Method:	International Wealth Index (IWI)	MPI Measure of Standard of Living (MPI-SL)	Comparative Wealth Index (CWI)	Absolute Wealth Estimate (AWE)
Assumptions	-Universal set of assets -Universal asset weights	-Universal set of indicators based on SDGs -All assets weighted equally	-Survey-specific assets -Survey-specific asset weights -Anchored by universal basic needs	-Survey-specific assets -Survey-specific asset weights -National wealth distribution
Indicators	12 indicators, 16 levels	6 indicators and levels	Variable indicators, 8 anchors	Variable indicators
Strengths	-Relies on only 12 indicators available in many surveys. -Easy to calculate	-Relies on only 6 indicators available in many surveys. -Easy to calculate	-Requires two sets of inputs: DHS Wealth Index and UBNs	-Requires three inputs: DHS Wealth Index, wealth per capita, GINI -Broadly comparable units
Weaknesses	-Does not adjust for new surveys -Can't be generalized historically	-Updated frequently, rendering old versions not comparable	-Only comparable across studies if the same baseline is selected	-Relies on assumed wealth distribution