Ray Dalio warns US economy becoming dependent on top 1% of workers as lower 60% lag
Prominent investor Ray Daley, founder of Bridgewater Associates, cautioned that the United States is increasingly relying on a narrow elite of high‑skill workers while a large share of the labor force struggles with low productivity. In a recent interview, Daley highlighted a growing gap between the top 1% of earners, who drive much of the country’s innovation and growth, and the bottom 60% of workers, many of whom face stagnant wages and limited upward mobility.
Daley’s remarks come at a time when macroeconomic indicators appear mixed. While stock markets have posted strong gains and the technology sector continues to attract venture capital, the unemployment rate has plateaued near historically low levels, and real GDP growth has moderated. Analysts note that such a divergence can mask underlying structural issues, including skill mismatches and underinvestment in middle‑skill occupations.
Economic experts echo Daley’s concerns, pointing to data that show productivity growth among lower‑income workers has slowed over the past decade. They argue that without targeted policy measures—such as expanded vocational training, apprenticeship programs, and incentives for businesses to invest in workforce development—the disparity could widen, reducing overall economic resilience. Some policymakers have already begun to discuss tax incentives for companies that upskill employees and broaden access to affordable higher education.
Industry observers also warn that overreliance on a small pool of top performers may increase vulnerability to sector‑specific shocks. If the high‑skill segment encounters a downturn, the broader economy could feel disproportionate effects because of its outsized influence on investment, research and development, and export competitiveness.
Looking ahead, Daley suggests that the United States needs a more inclusive growth model that lifts the productivity of the majority while still fostering elite innovation. He emphasizes that sustainable long‑term prosperity will depend on balancing the contributions of both high‑skill and middle‑skill workers, ensuring that the benefits of economic expansion are more evenly distributed across the labor force.
