Economic Forecast Slower Due To Lower Immigration, New Data Confirms

Population Growth and Economic Implications - The latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates indicate very low population growth from June 30, 2024, to July 1, 2025, suggesting potential future weaknesses in economic growth [2] - Natural population increase has been low, with fluctuations primarily driven by net migration, which is not perfectly measured [4] - The forecast indicates that population growth in the coming years may be even lower than the current estimates, with net migration expected to approach zero due to increased enforcement of border restrictions [7] Labor Market and Productivity - Most immigrants are of working age but tend to be lower-skilled and earn lower wages, which means a decline in immigration has a less significant impact on the economy compared to a drop in native-born workers [5] - Low-skilled workers complement high-skilled workers, enhancing overall productivity in various sectors, such as construction [6] - Labor productivity growth is beginning to reflect advancements in artificial intelligence, with historical data showing variability in productivity growth rates [8] Economic Growth Forecast - With approximately zero population growth and an expected productivity growth of around two percent, inflation-adjusted GDP is projected to increase by slightly more than two percent in the coming years [9] - Business planning should be slightly less optimistic than in previous years, particularly for sectors serving low-wage consumers, which will experience slower growth [10] - The economy can remain healthy with low immigration, but its size and characteristics will differ compared to scenarios with higher immigration levels [11]