Falling Birth Rates Threaten Economic Growth, Prompt Search for Solutions

Falling global birth rates threaten economic growth and prosperity that relies on growing population and consumer markets.

Countries with declining populations face economic stagnation and difficulty funding pensions and services for aging populations.

Possible solutions like immigration or incentives for more births are politically and culturally difficult.

Alternatives like raising retirement age or increasing automation may be needed to maintain growth with fewer workers.

Economies may need to shift focus from growing by adding more workers to doing more with increased productivity from technology.