US economy leads the world but faces demographic and healthcare challenges

The United States has the largest economy globally, with a GDP of about $27 trillion, significantly ahead of China and Germany. Its GDP per capita is $65,020, four times the global average. The US also holds the highest gold reserves, valued at around $700 billion. With a population of 335 million, the US faces challenges from a declining growth rate and an ageing demographic. The fertility rate is 1.84, below the replacement level. Life expectancy is 81 years, slightly above the global average but lower than many developed nations. The US has the highest healthcare costs, spending over $12,000 per person annually. Despite this, access remains limited for many. In education, US spending is 6.1 percent of GDP, higher than the global average, but performance in key subjects lags behind several Asian countries. The US military budget is nearly $900 billion, accounting for 39 percent of global military spending.