Ok, you caught me. There’s really only one reason spread out over 13 countries.
The world is graying at a break-neck pace and that’s bad news for the global economy. By 2020, 13 countries will be “super-aged” — with more than 20% of the population over 65 — according to a report by Moody’s Investor Service. That number will rise to 34 nations by 2030. Only three qualify now: Germany, Italy and Japan.
“Demographic transition … is now upon us,” warn Elena Duggar and Madhavi Bokil, the authors of the Moody’s report.
“The unprecedented pace of aging will have a significant negative effect on economic growth over the next two decades across all regions.”
They cite Conference Board estimates that rapid aging will knock nearly one percentage point off global growth rates over the next decade. According to Moody’s, Greece and Finland will turn “super-aged” next year. Eight countries, including France and Sweden, will have joined them by 2020. Canada, Spain and the U.K. will be “super-aged” by 2025, and the U.S. will follow by 2030.
So, there you go. Humanity needs you! Time to get busy, people. Oh, and if you would like to experience more joy and passion while you’re practicing your baby making skills, check out Holy Sex! A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing, Infallible Loving.