It is not clear, however, that the same people appear in the bottom quintile in 1999 as did in 1977: most studies show a rapid turnover of people in the lowest income group, reflecting temporary problems or self-employed people exploiting tax loopholes.

ECONOMIST: Cutting the cookie

The Swedish central bank said it believed that Kaupthing was solvent, but was suffering temporary liquidity problems that could have wider repercussions.

NPR: Iceland Shivers From Financial Crisis

But often they have managed to bring themselves only temporary relief - with problems delayed, not resolved.

BBC: EU referendum: PM's problem solved or delayed?