USA: The end of U.S. demographic exceptionalism

The Terry Group and the Global Aging Institute have jointly published an issue brief entitled “The End of U.S. Demographic Exceptionalism.” Until recently, America’s relatively high fertility rate seemed to ensure that it would remain the youngest of the major developed countries for the foreseeable future, as well as the only one with a steadily growing workforce. But birthrates were already in a steep decline before the pandemic hit, and now have plunged to European levels. The issue brief digs deep into the story behind the new “baby bust.” It explores why birthrates have been falling, whether they are likely to rise again, and if they don’t, what it means for the budget, the economy, and the position of the United States in the world order. This issue brief is part of a series we’re calling Critical Issues. The series aims to provide timely and authoritative analysis of key demographic and economic trends and developments that are reshaping America and the world, and in particular the future environment for retirement and health care. We hope that you find Critical Issues both informative and useful. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions please do not hesitate to contact Tom Terry or Richard Jackson. 

Read/download our issue brief: 2021-Critical-Issues-01-The-End-of-US-Demographic-Exceptionalism.pdf (terrygroup.com)