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Contrastingly, economic structures in the U.S. have historically fostered an environment of investment and wealth growth. The creation of retirement savings accounts and other investment vehicles has enabled many Americans to engage in the stock market, which promotes continuous consumer spending through a "wealth effect." The more confident individuals feel about their financial stability and growth potential, the more likely they are to spend.
In China, however, the model stifles the ability of citizens to build wealth directly through investments in the very companies that drive the economy. A significant portion of Chinese wealth is tied up in state-owned businesses, which limits the economic agency of the average citizen.