Testing the effect of population ageing on national saving rates: panel data evidence from Europe

Abstract

The objective of this study is to test the relationships between population ageing and gross saving rates in European countries. We use panel data techniques to explore the possible non-linearity between it. We show that the dependency ratio, when is significant, negatively affects gross saving rates. Besides, life expectancy has non-linear effects on saving rates and rising longevity is a main factor to explain saving rates at national levels. European countries are concerned about the delivery of benefits and services and financial sustainability of their welfare state and increase gross national savings rates can help to fill this gap.