Explanation:

We know that if a number is decreased by x% and then successively increased by y %, then the net change is given by ( - x + y + xy/100) %

From the given data, earnings was decreased by 60%, x = 60 and subsequently increased by 60%, y = 60

⇒ Final loss percent = [-60 + 60 + (60 × 60)/100] = 3600/100 = 36

Final loss on his earnings is 36%.