To: TobagoJack who wrote (207032 ) 7/25/2024 2:01:07 AM From: Haim R. Branisteanu Respond to of 217593 TJ there are two main factors that drive US markets higher 1. Retirement of the baby-boomers and transfer of their wealth to their children and other family member who did not work hard to earn this money and splash it on speculative stocks. 2. In 2021, there were around 3.66 million live births in the United States. Like many other developed countries, the birth rate in the U.S. has decreased over recent decades, in part due to young adults postponing having children and the use of contraception. U.S. Fertility Rate Drops to Another Historic Low (cdc.gov) The birth rate has significant implications for the economy. why?Population Growth and Labor Force :A higher birth rate contributes to population growth, which can expand the labor force. More workers mean increased productivity and economic output. Conversely, declining birth rates lead to an aging population and a smaller workforce. This can strain social security systems and reduce economic growth. Consumer Spending and Demand :Families with children tend to spend more on goods and services related to child-rearing (e.g., education, healthcare, toys). This boosts demand and stimulates economic activity. Lower birth rates may result in reduced consumer spending, affecting industries like childcare, education, and retail. 3. Dependency Ratio: The ratio of working-age individuals to dependents (children and retirees) affects economic stability. A higher dependency ratio due to low birth rates can strain the public resources. Investment and Innovation:A growing population encourages investment in infrastructure, technology, and innovation. Companies anticipate future demand and invest accordingly. Declining birth rates may lead to reduced investment, impacting long-term economic development. In summary, birth rates significantly shape a nation’s economic trajectory. Maintaining a balance between population growth and workforce sustainability is crucial for economic prosperi ty The birth rate in China has undergone significant changes over the years. In 2023 , the birth rate in China was approximately 6.39 births per 1,000 people . This is the lowest rate since 2000 1 . Interestingly, the number of births fell below the number of deaths in 2022 for the first time in decades, leading to a negative population growth rate 1 . The decline in birth rates can be attributed to various factors, including low fertility , changing social norms, and economic considerations 1 . Despite the easing of the one-child policy, the effect on birth rates was smaller than expected 1 . The COVID-19 pandemic also influenced birth rates, but as restrictions lifted, there’s potential for a rebound However, the shrinking number of people in child-bearing age groups may limit the scope of this rebound China’s demographic landscape continues to evolve, and understanding birth rates is crucial for long-term planning and policy decisions. hart and table of the China fertility rate from 1950 to 2024. United Nations projections are also included through the year 2100. The current fertility rate for China in 2024 is 1.707 births per woman, a 0.12% increase from 2023. The fertility rate for China in 2023 was 1.705 births per woman, a 0.18% increase from 2022. The fertility rate for China in 2022 was 1.702 births per woman, a 0.18% increase from 2021. The fertility rate for China in 2021 was 1.699 births per woman, a 0.18% increase from 2020. A balanced fertility rate is slightly over 2 children per woman below this fertility rate the overall population is shrinking and so is consumption which will also shrink the country GDP but not the GDP per working person. The expenses un longer life of non-productive elderly with an negative consumption patter due to the necessary needed medicine expenses will put an additional strain on the economy All in all not a rosy picture for the near future but excellent prospects for the general world population in 50 years related to the quality of life and global warming,