Core Viewpoint - The recent trend of companies like McDonald's and Universal Studios hiring retired individuals has sparked discussions about the implications of the upcoming "universal social security" policy and its potential impact on youth employment opportunities [1][8]. Group 1: Company Hiring Practices - McDonald's and other companies are actively recruiting retired workers for simple job roles in the service industry, such as restaurant staff, to reduce labor costs [1][4]. - The hiring of retired employees is not a new practice for McDonald's, which has maintained a target of hiring around 5% retired workers as part of its workforce strategy [1][5]. - The job postings for retired workers often include flexible working hours and salaries ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 yuan per month, depending on the position and location [2][4]. Group 2: Economic Implications - The hiring of retired individuals may be a strategy for companies to circumvent the costs associated with the new social security policy, which includes mandatory contributions for younger employees [4][8]. - The financial burden of social security contributions for companies can be significant, with estimates suggesting an annual cost of approximately 14,460 yuan per employee [4]. - The trend of hiring older workers could lead to a shift in the labor market, potentially displacing younger workers and exacerbating existing employment challenges for them [8][10]. Group 3: Labor Market Dynamics - The labor participation rate of older individuals in countries like the U.S., Japan, and South Korea is significantly higher than that of similar age groups in China, indicating a potential for increased employment of older workers in the future [9]. - The service industry, particularly in the restaurant sector, is facing profit margin pressures, prompting companies to reconsider their labor cost structures and explore alternative employment strategies [8][9]. - The emergence of new job opportunities in sectors like e-commerce and delivery services is attracting younger workers away from traditional roles in the service industry, further complicating the employment landscape [8][9].

Core Viewpoint - The new social security regulation, effective from September 1, mandates that any agreement to not pay social security is invalid, indicating a shift towards compulsory social security for all [6][8]. Summary by Sections Social Security Changes - The recent social security regulation emphasizes that not paying social security is no longer an option, reflecting a potential beginning of mandatory social security for everyone [6][8]. Understanding Social Security - Social security serves to balance short-term and long-term interests, where individuals must sacrifice part of their current income for future benefits [9][18]. - The calculation of social security contributions reveals that when a company pays 13,270 yuan, the employee only receives 8,152.5 yuan after deductions [10][13]. Demographic Challenges - The changing population structure is putting pressure on the social security system, with an increasing elderly population and a decreasing working-age population [14][17]. - The old-age dependency ratio in China is projected to rise, with 22.8% of the working population supporting 20% of the elderly by 2024 [19]. Pension Models - Global pension systems are primarily divided into "pay-as-you-go" and "fund accumulation" models, each with its advantages and disadvantages [20][22]. - The current pension system in China combines elements of both models, but it still faces challenges due to demographic shifts [22][23]. Societal Implications - The necessity for social security arises from the potential consequences of widespread poverty among the elderly, which could lead to social instability [23][25]. - The implications of mandatory social security will affect businesses and employees alike, potentially increasing labor costs and impacting competitiveness [25].