Phased Retirement is in Vogue

According to a survey by WTW, one in three US workers over 50 prefers a phased retirement. Currently, 15% are already reducing their work hours, with 19% planning to do so imminently.

Financial security and health issues drive this choice. Importantly, 46% of workers aged 50 and older plan to work beyond 70, an increase from 30% pre-pandemic.

Workers reveal that this approach also helps them emotionally, as it eases the transition to fully retiring.

Employers gain from retaining experienced employees at lower costs. Notably, 61% of companies have experience with phased retirements, though only 16% do it regularly.

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Supreme Court Revives Proof of Citizenship Law

The Supreme Court partially revived Arizona's proof of citizenship law for voter registration. In a 5-4 ruling, the court reinstated the requirement for applicants using a state-created form to show documentary proof of citizenship.

Arizona's law was created in 2022 and mandates that federal form applicants provide documentation if their citizenship can't be verified.

The law aims to enhance election security but has drawn criticism as a barrier to voting.

The case reflects the ongoing contention around voting rights in a battleground state, where over 42,000 voters are registered only for federal elections.

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China's Race with Tesla to Build Humanoid Robots

Nearly 30 Chinese companies showcased their humanoid robots at the World Robot Conference in Beijing. China's government aims for mass production of these by 2025.

Tesla plans to deploy 1,000 Optimus robots in factories next year.

Analysts predict the global market for humanoid robots could reach $38 billion by 2035. Currently, the cost to build each robot stands at about $150,000, but companies like Shanghai Kepler Exploration Robotics aim to reduce this to under $30,000.

China's strategy mirrors its electric vehicle growth, leveraging government support and competitive pricing.

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Psilocybin's Potential in Treating Depression

A study published in the BMJ shows high doses of psilocybin could match the effects of escitalopram, a popular antidepressant.

Researchers reviewed data from 3,000 participants. They analyzed 20 trials, including 800 in psychedelics studies and 2,000 in escitalopram trials.

While psilocybin outperformed placebo in most trials, only high doses showed significant results in escitalopram comparisons.

Overall, researchers noted no increased risk of serious adverse events linked to psilocybin.

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