Silver Age Report on Longevity and Growth Featured by Population Europe
Population Europe has published a new policy insight examining how longer and healthier lives could become an important source of European growth.
Population Europe is a network of leading European demographic research centres. Hosted by the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, it connects academic research on population change with policy debates at the European and international levels.
Written by Letizia Mencarini, Professor of Demography at Bocconi University and IEP Bocconi Fellow, the article argues that longevity should not be understood exclusively as a challenge for welfare systems and public finances. Longer lives are also reshaping consumption, labour markets, financial services and investment.
The article draws on Live Long and Prosper: Part I, The Silver Economy, a report by Letizia Mencarini, Arnstein Aassve and Elisa Del Frari, developed through the collaboration between IEP Bocconi and Allianz.
The report compares demographic trends in France, Germany and Italy and examines the emergence of a new “second adulthood”, characterised by longer periods of health, independence and economic participation.
People aged over 50 already generate around 34 per cent of global GDP and account for approximately half of consumer spending. The research also considers the implications of the large intergenerational transfer of wealth expected over the coming decades, while emphasising that the economic and social benefits of longevity remain unevenly distributed.
Population Europe has also presented the article through its LinkedIn channels, highlighting the opportunities that demographic change may create for innovation, investment and economic participation.
Read the Population Europe policy insight
IEP Bocconi does not express opinions of its own. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the authors.