Financial Briefs

While China, Japan, Germany, and other major economies are grappling with a decline in their working-age population in the decades ahead, the U.S. working-age population is expected to grow. Since growth in the size of the labor force is one of the two determinants in economic growth, it's a key fundamental factor that will shape the future of financial markets. This is a key fundamental affecting long-term personal financial plans. It's important and it has practical consequences on retirement portfolios.

With the working age population stalling, Europe's economic growth is sluggish. To stimulate the economy, Germany's central bank has pushed lending rates into negative territory, which is unprecedented. Germany is the world's second largest issuer of government-backed bonds and its action has depressed interest rates on U.S. Treasury Bonds. This demographic trend is set to shape growth rates in major economies across the globe for the decades ahead, which means low-rate conditions in the U.S. could persist for years. No one can predict the next move in the stock market, but demographics are fairly stable and predictable. As a result, it's wise to be sure your strategic investment plan — specially, your portfolio's allocations to bonds — is in sync with this key fundamental. Please call us with any questions.

This article was written by a veteran financial journalist. While these are sources we believe to be reliable, the information is not intended to be used as financial or tax advice without consulting a professional about your personal situation. Tax laws are subject to change. Indices are unmanaged and not available for direct investment. Investments with higher return potential carry greater risk for loss. No one can predict the future of the stock market or any investment, and past performance is never a guarantee of your future results.