Retirement ages are going up around the world — sending a signal to the U.S. workforce

Outside the Box

Countries like Denmark and China show that innovation and investment are essential to meet the needs of people who are living and working longer

Last Updated: July 2, 2025 at 12:13 p.m. ET
First Published: June 27, 2025 at 12:50 p.m. ET

Two very different countries are sharing one compelling trend line when it comes to employment.

In May, Denmark’s parliament passed a law to raise the state pension age from 67 to 70 by 2040, phasing in age 68 in 2030 and age 69 in 2035. These changes align the retirement age with life expectancy and represent Europe’s most significant retirement policy update in decades.