ONS Appoints New Director General for Economic Statistics
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has announced the appointment of James Benford as the new Director General for the Economic, Social, and Environmental Statistics Group (ESEG). Benford will officially join the ONS team on August 4, 2025, transitioning from his current role as Executive Director for Data and Analytics Transformation and Chief Data Officer at the Bank of England. This key appointment comes as the ONS seeks to enhance the quality of its economic statistical outputs and renew public confidence during a transformative period. Emma Rourke, the Acting National Statistician, expressed her enthusiasm by stating, "I am delighted to welcome James at this pivotal moment for the ONS. He brings a wealth of leadership and transformation experience from his role at the Bank of England, as well as outstanding expertise in the field of economic statistics, data, analytics and AI-driven innovation." Benford's career at the Bank of England, where he focused on data transformation and AI strategy, provides a foundational experience that aligns with the ONS's goals of data quality improvement and system-wide statistical alignment. He has previously held senior civil service roles, contributing significantly to policy and strategy at prestigious institutions such as HM Treasury. Upon his appointment, Benford noted his eagerness to work with the ONS teams to fortify the relevance and trust of statistical data that informs critical decisions across sectors, stating: “I am honoured to take up this role at such a pivotal moment. I am excited to work with the talented and dedicated teams at the ONS to strengthen the quality and relevance of statistics - and to rebuild public trust in the data that informs so many critical decisions. “Better statistics require better alignment - not only within the ONS, but across the entire system. I look forward to collaborating with users and data suppliers across government, business, and academia to harness new data sources, embrace innovation, and ensure our statistics are fit for the challenges of a fast-evolving world.” This appointment aligns with an impending independent review of the ONS, guided by Sir Robert Devereux, aimed at further optimizing the organization’s functionalities and services. Image Credits: ons.gov.uk / Bank of England
James Benford joins ONS as the new Director General for Economic, Social, and Environmental Statistics, bringing expertise to enhance economic data quality.
Economic Science Association Announces 2025 Award Winners and Fellows
In an email to members the Economic Science Association has announced its three 2025 awards, as well as the five scholars named as its most recent fellows. The email was shared by Alvin Roth on his Market Design blog, and by the University of Pittsburgh, a faculty member of which, Lise Vesterlund, was elected as a fellow. We are delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 ESA Awards and the newest Fellows of the Economic Science Association. These awards recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to our field through research, service, mentoring, and leadership: 2025 ESA Distinguished Service Award This award honours those who have played an exceptional role in the administration and growth of the ESA over the course of their careers. In 2025, we are proud to recognize two extraordinary recipients: Professor Yan Chen Professor Chen served as ESA President from 2015–2017. She established our mentoring program and served as the Director of the ESA Mentoring Program, a role she held until 2024. Through her efforts, hundreds of early career researchers have benefited from mentorship panels, helping to shape the next generation of experimental economists. Professor Catherine Eckel Professor Eckel served as ESA President from 2017–2019. Among her many contributions, she played a foundational role in establishing our ethics program, becoming ESA’s first Ethics Officer. She has been a dedicated mentor and advocate for junior scholars. Her leadership has been instrumental in making ESA a more inclusive and welcoming community for researchers at all stages of their careers. 2025 ESA Young Scholar Prize This prize recognizes a young scholar whose work has made a significant methodological contribution to experimental economics. Candidates must either be under the age of 40, hold an untenured position, or be within 10 years of completing graduate school. We are thrilled to announce the 2025 recipient: Professor Christine Exley Professor Exley is recognized for her research on motivated reasoning, charitable giving, and gender. Her work stands out for its innovative experimental designs, pushing the boundaries of how we study behaviour in complex social contexts. 2025 ESA Prize for Exceptional Achievement This award honours a researcher who has overcome unusually challenging circumstances to make impactful contributions to experimental economics. We are very pleased to announce that the 2025 award goes to: Professor Erin Krupka Professor Krupka is widely known for her impressive work on social norms, including the development of incentivized norm elicitation techniques that have become a cornerstone in the field. 2025 ESA Fellows The designation of ESA fellow is intended to recognize the lifetime contributions of ESA members who have advanced the frontier of knowledge in economics through the use of laboratory and/or field experiments. The designation of an individual as an ESA fellow is intended as a permanent recognition of their contribution to experimental science and to economics. We are delighted to welcome the following distinguished Professors as the 2025 ESA Fellows: Mark Isaac Rosemarie Nagel Robert Sugden Lise Vesterlund James Walker Their body of work has significantly shaped experimental economics and will continue to inspire researchers across generations. The awardees and Fellows were selected by the 2025 ESA’s Awards and Fellows Committee. Image Credits: University of Michigan / Texas A&M University / ESA / University of Michigan / University of Michigan
The Economic Science Association (ESA) has announced its 2025 Award Winners, together with its newest fellows.
UN Secretary-General Appoints Aya Suzuki as Senior Vice-Rector of United Nations University
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has announced the appointment of Aya Suzuki from Japan as the new Senior Vice-Rector of the United Nations University (UNU). The announcement was made on June 23, 2025, following consultations with UNU, and is effective from October 1, 2025. Aya Suzuki succeeds Sawako Shirahase, also from Japan. Suzuki, a noted Japanese development economist, is recognized for her work in poverty reduction, focusing on both agricultural and industrial development in developing countries. She currently serves as a professor in the Department of International Studies at the University of Tokyo and holds leadership roles as a Special Adviser to the University President and Deputy Director General of University Corporate Relations at the University of Tokyo. Through these positions, she has spearheaded initiatives to foster social entrepreneurship and international collaboration, alongside enhancing support for students from the Global South. UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala welcomed the appointment: “Dr. Suzuki’s extensive experience in development economics and her significant leadership roles within the University of Tokyo make her an exceptional addition to UNU’s leadership team. Her research experience aligns perfectly with UNU’s focus on addressing pressing global challenges and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals." Prof. Suzuki reacted to her appointment, saying: “I am deeply honoured and excited to join UNU and contribute to its vital mission”, said Dr. Suzuki. “I believe that my background and experience will enable me to further strengthen UNU’s impact in Japan and globally, supporting research and policy dialogue that addresses critical sustainable development issues.” Suzuki's professional background includes serving as an auditor for the Japanese Association for Development Economics and a visiting professor at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. Aya Suzuki holds a PhD in Development and Agricultural Economics from the University of California, Davis, and has a distinguished academic career marked by numerous publications on agricultural marketing and development economics. Image Credits: United Nations University
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Aya Suzuki as the new Senior Vice-Rector of the United Nations University.
Economic Development, Innovation and Growth (JEL O)
David Cutler replaces Lawrence Bobo as interim Dean of Harvard Social Sciences
Harvard University's Dean of Social Science, Lawrence D. Bobo, is stepping down from his role. He will take a sabbatical for the 2025-26 academic year, as confirmed by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dean Hopi E. Hoekstra in a recent email to the faculty. The current interim dean, Economics Professor David M. Cutler, who temporarily filled the position after Bobo took an unexpected leave of absence in spring 2025, will continue as interim dean for two more academic years until a permanent successor is found in the fall of 2026. Bobo is stepping down to address "pressing family matters". In appreciation of Bobo's contribution, Hoekstra highlighted his leadership over the past six years and his commitment to Harvard's teaching and research missions. Expressing his sentiments on leaving, Bobo stated he was "privileged" to serve in the role and took pride in seeing the social sciences thrive under his guidance. Bobo’s leadership was not without contention, notably for a recent op-ed piece urging for "sanctionable limits" on faculty speech, which stirred debates over academic freedom. The stepping down of Bobo comes at a time when Harvard confronts significant challenges, including budgetary constraints exacerbated by potential federal funding issues under the Trump administration. Hoekstra has already advised faculty to brace for a possible 20 percent budget cut and has halted non-essential expenditures. David M. Cutler, a seasoned economist with deep ties to health policy, including advising Presidents Clinton and Obama, brings extensive experience in academia and government roles. As the university administration prepares to initiate the search for a permanent dean next fall, Cutler will need to navigate through the administrative and financial hurdles facing Harvard's Faculty of Arts and Sciences. This story was originally reported in the Harvard Crimson by William C. Mao and Veronica H. Paulus. Image Credits: Harvard University / Harvard Economics
Lawrence D. Bobo has announced his resignation as Harvard's Dean of Social Science, citing personal matters as the reason. David Cutler, an economics professor, will take over as interim dean for the next two academic years during a period of budget constraints, reports the Harvard Crimson, a college newspaper.
UK Economics University Rankings Released (2026) - Cambridge top, LSE, Oxford, St. Andrews and Warwick in top five
The Complete University Guide has unveiled its 2026 league tables, highlighting the top universities for Economics in the UK. The rankings provide a comprehensive evaluation of institutions based on several criteria, including teaching quality, student satisfaction, and graduate prospects. Prospective students can utilize the league tables to make informed choices about their education by comparing universities based on important factors such as entry standards, research quality, and continuation rates. The ranking is compiled from data collected between 2019 and 2024. The top five remain unchanged since the 2025 edition, with Cambridge topping the overall table, followed in the top five by LSE, Oxford, St. Andrews and Warwick. Cambridge again scored highly across all categories, although the economics department at St. Andrews topped the table for entry standards, pipping Cambridge and Oxford. St. Andrews also outperformed the overall top ten for student satisfaction, coming third overall for this measurement. Other universities performing well for econ student satisfaction included the University of Hertfordshire (first for student satisfaction, 59th overall) and Herriot Watt University (second for student satisfaction, 28th overall). LSE and Warwick lead the field in economics research quality, followed by University College London (third for research quality, seventh overall), Cambridge and Nottingham (eighth overall). Cambridge led the field in terms of "continuation", roughly an inverse measurement of the drop-out rate, with an impressive 100% of first year econ students continuing their studies (if not at Cambridge, then at another institution). St. Andrews, Nottingham and Durham also performed well in this measurement, with 99% of economics freshers continuing their studies after their first year. In terms of graduate prospects, defined as the percentage of economics graduates who were in "skilled" employment within fifteen months of graduation, Cambridge again led the field, with 96%, closely followed by UCL, LSE and Kings College London (all 95%) and Oxford (94%). A second measure of graduate prospects measured how many students were "on track", who in a survey agreed that their postgraduate study or employment fit with their future plans. In this measurement Cambridge shared first place with the economics departments at Keele University (47th overall) and the University of York (18th overall). Notable improvements in the overall ranking include economics departments at the University of Nottingham (8th overall, up from 12th in 2025), University of Exeter (11th, up from 14th), Cardiff (21st, up from 25th), Strathclyde (23rd, up from 28th), Herriot-Watt (28th, up from 34th), the University of Leicester (37th, up from 47th) and the University of Plymouth (40th, up from 57th). New entries to the table were the economics programmes at Northumbria University (in at 66th), Liverpool Hope University (71st) and the University of Roehampton (74th). With the latest data available, students looking to pursue an Economics degree can explore and compare various UK universities to find the best fit for their academic and professional aspirations. Image Credits: thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk
The Complete University Guide has published its 2026 league table for undergraduate Economics programs at UK universities, offering prospective students valuable insights into the best institutions to consider for their economics studies. As last year, the University of Cambridge tops the table.
Christian Schulz Appointed Chief Economist at Allianz Global Investors
Allianz Global Investors (AllianzGI), a prominent player in active asset management, has unveiled that Christian Schulz will join the organization as Chief Economist beginning July 1, 2025. In his new role, Schulz will take charge of the Global Economics & Strategy team, producing essential macroeconomic research and market insights that will help shape investment strategies across the firm. Michael Krautzberger, CIO of Public Markets at AllianzGI, praised Schulz’s unique ability to integrate long-term economic forecasts with short-term data analytics. His expertise is expected to be particularly beneficial in asset classes influenced by macroeconomic events. "His international background fits perfectly with our collaborative culture," Krautzberger stated. Schulz is known for his established presence in the media and is anticipated to bring forward his insights on investment opportunities and risk management to clients in the near future. Previously, he served as Deputy Chief European Economist at Citigroup Global Markets, where he played a pivotal role co-managing the European Economics team and focused on various key markets, including Germany and the European Central Bank. Schulz holds a Doctorate and a Master in Economics from the University of Hamburg and completed his BSc in Financial Economics at the University of St Andrews. AllianzGI is committed to nurturing top talents in the finance sector, which is evident in their latest recruitment aimed at enhancing their strategic capabilities for future investment success. Image Credit: Allianz Global Investors
Allianz Global Investors has announced the appointment of Christian Schulz as Chief Economist, effective July 1, 2025. He will lead the firm's Global Economics & Strategy team, contributing to macroeconomic research and market insights aimed at enhancing investment portfolios.
Olaf Sleijpen Appointed New President of Dutch Central Bank DNB
On the recommendation of DNB’s Supervisory Board, Minister of Finance Eelco Heinen on Friday nominated Olaf Sleijpen for appointment, by Royal Decree, as the new president of De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), the central bank of the Netherlands. Sleijpen, who replaces the outgoing president Klaas Knot, will assume the role effective immediately. His appointment comes as the bank continues to navigate complex global and domestic financial landscapes. Sleijpen brings with him a wealth of experience in the financial sector, having previously served in several key roles within the bank. His expertise in macroeconomic policy and financial stability is expected to guide the institution as it addresses challenges such as inflation, digital currency integration, and evolving regulatory environments. De Nederlandsche Bank plays a pivotal role not only within the Netherlands but also in the broader Eurozone economy, with its policies impacting both national and regional economic strategies. As Sleijpen takes the helm, he is anticipated to emphasize proactive measures to enhance financial resilience. The transition in leadership at DNB comes at a critical time when economic forecasters are keeping a close eye on the implications of global economic shifts. Sleijpen's prior achievements and deep understanding of economic policies are expected to serve as advantageous assets for the institution. Martin van Rijn, chairman of DNB’s Supervisory Board welcomed the appointment, saying: “Olaf Sleijpen is an authority at the nexus of monetary policy, financial stability and European cooperation. He combines substantive depth with managerial experience, has a highly developed social compass and an extensive background at DNB, in both the monetary domain and supervision. We are confident that he will lead DNB with authority and vision during a period of complex economic and societal transitions." Sleiijpen has worked for major Dutch pension funds and at the European Central Bank. He studied economics at Maastricht University and obtained his PhD from the University of Groningen. Since 2007, he has been a Professor of European Economic Policy at Maastricht University. Image Credit: DNB
The announcement of Olaf Sleijpen as the new president of the central financial authority, De Nederlandsche Bank, marks a significant leadership change.
Public Economics & Economic Policy (JEL H)
Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics (JEL E)
Jenny Wilkinson Appointed as New Australian Treasury Boss
Wilkinson replaces Steven Kennedy, who in the same Announcement by Albanese will move to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Wilkinson's appointment has been lauded by both past and future ministerial colleagues. In a statement, Jim Chalmers MP, the Australian Treasurer, with whom Wilkinson will now work, praised the contribution of Kennedy and said of the appointment: "I am really excited by this opportunity to work even more closely with Jenny, whose contribution as the Secretary of the Department of Finance has been instrumental to our first four budgets and so much of the broader work of our government." Further he emphasised the significance of the role being in female hands for the first time: "Jenny will make history as the first woman to lead the Treasury. Under our government women now lead the Treasury, Reserve Bank and Productivity Commission all for the first time. Jenny is one of Australia’s most distinguished and experienced economists and public servants and has served with distinction under governments of both political persuasions. I am really pleased that someone with her skills and experience will guide and lead the department, as we continue to develop and implement our economic agenda." The Minister for Finance, Senator Katy Gallagher, was similarly full of praise of her former secretary, noting in a statement: "I am thrilled to see Ms Wilkinson be the first woman appointed to lead the Commonwealth Treasury in its 124-year history." Like Chalmers, Gallagher also emphasises the example set to young female professionals by such high-profile appointments: "This appointment not only recognises Ms Wilkinson’s individual talent, skills and expertise, but it also serves as an important reminder for women and girls across the country that all positions in the Australian Public Service – no matter how senior – are roles that women can hold. I thank Ms Wilkinson for everything she achieved in Finance and for her support and advice to me as Minister for Finance." Wilkinson gained a Masters Degree in Public Affairs from Princeton University, and holds a Bachelors Degree in Economics from the Australian National University. She was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2021 for her contribution to fiscal policy, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, during the response to which she was one of the architects of the Australian "JobKeeper" program. Image Credits: Australian Government - The Treasury / Australian Government - Department of Finance
Jenny Wilkinson has been named by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as new Secretary of the Treasury. Wilkinson is a prominent figure in Australian government and policy circles, who since 2022 has led the Australian Department of Finance. The appointment is particularly notable, as it is the first time in over 120 years that the key role at the Treasury has had a female incumbent.
S Mahendra Dev Appointed as New Chair of Indian Economic Advisory Council to PM
S Mahendra Dev, a noted academic and policy expert in economics, has been named the new chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM). His appointment comes after the death of Bibek Debroy, who chaired the EAC-PM since its reconstitution in 2017 until he passed away in November 2024. Mahendra Dev is highly respected for his research and contributions in agricultural policy, poverty reduction, and economic development. Until his appointment last week, he was a Director on the board of Axis Bank, and is a former director of the Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) in Mumbai. Dev’s work has been influential in shaping discussions on rural development and welfare policies, and he has held key advisory roles with various Indian government agencies as well as international organizations. As chair of the EAC-PM, Dev is expected to provide independent economic analysis and advice to the government during a challenging period marked by global economic uncertainties and India’s own development needs. Experts suggest that his academic background and policy experience could usher in renewed focus on rural and agricultural reform, while addressing issues related to inequality and sustainable growth. Dev’s appointment comes at a time when the Indian government is targeting robust economic growth, navigating global headwinds, and focusing on inclusive development. The EAC-PM plays an important role by offering data-driven policy recommendations and offering an independent view on economic matters. The government and the economic community have welcomed this appointment, expecting Dev to continue the EAC-PM’s tradition of independent, informed policy guidance. Image Credit: EAC-PM / Axis Bank
Eminent economist S Mahendra Dev has been appointed as the new chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), succeeding Bibek Debroy. Dev, renowned for his work in agricultural and developmental economics, brings decades of academic and policy experience to the position. The appointment is expected to influence India's economic policy direction, especially amid evolving economic challenges.
Top Economist Michael Weber to Join ESMT Berlin with Prestigious Humboldt Professorship
Michael Weber, internationally esteemed for his groundbreaking research in behavioral and macroeconomics, has been awarded the Alexander von Humboldt Professorship. Weber is currently a professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and plans to join ESMT Berlin in Spring 2026, pending final appointment negotiations. This will make ESMT the first business school in Germany to host the holder this elite award. The Humboldt Professorship, funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space and awarded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, is designed to attract global research talent for high-impact, long-term academic endeavors in Germany. Valued at up to €5 million it is one of the most prestigious and generously endowed research awards in Germany. This distinction underscores not just ESMT’s research ambitions but also the growing significance of interdisciplinary approaches in management and economics. "Michael Weber is one of the most influential voices in household finance and macroeconomic expectations today," said Jörg Rocholl, president of ESMT, highlighting the boost Weber’s insights will bring to the school. Weber’s research links how inflation expectations affect consumer behavior, savings, and economic trust, and shows the value of transparent central bank communication. In his new role, Weber intends to set up the European Expectations Center at ESMT, a pioneering hub focused on understanding how inflation expectations evolve and impact decision-making among households and firms. The center will conduct comprehensive annual surveys, publish both academic and policy work, and host events for stakeholders across Europe. Weber is expected to begin his appointment in spring 2026, with recruitment for the new Center already underway. Image Credit: Chicago Booth University
Michael Weber, a globally recognized economist renowned for his work on household finance and macroeconomic expectations, has been awarded the eminent Alexander von Humboldt Professorship and is set to join ESMT Berlin. This marks a milestone for ESMT, as it becomes the first German business school to receive this prestigious research honor.
Laura Alfaro Named Chief Economist and Economic Counselor at Inter-American Development Bank
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has announced the appointment of Laura Alfaro as its new Chief Economist and Economic Counselor, effective June 1, 2025. Alfaro is recognized for her deep expertise in international economics and public policy within the Latin America and Caribbean region. Prior to joining the IDB, Alfaro was the Warren Alpert Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School and served as Costa Rica's Minister of National Planning and Economic Policy. Her work has focused on international economics, capital flows, foreign direct investment, and trade. Alfaro has held influential editorial and research roles, including as Co-Editor of the Journal of International Economics and Vice-President of the Latin American and Caribbean Economic Association (LACEA). As Chief Economist, Alfaro will lead the IDB’s Research Department, reinforcing its role as a thought leader on issues such as productivity, competitiveness, private-sector-driven growth, technology, fiscal sustainability, financial inclusion, resilience, and inequality. Under the IDBImpact+ vision, her department will further integrate rigorous economic research into policy and operations to foster impactful solutions and guide decision-making across Latin America and the Caribbean. IDB President Ilan Goldfajn welcomed Alfaro, emphasizing the appointment comes at a critical moment as the bank strengthens its commitment to knowledge-driven development. Alfaro expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating, "Knowledge only makes sense when it becomes impact. Today, more than ever, our region needs bold ideas, rigorous analysis, and genuine collaboration to turn data into decisions that improve lives." She succeeds Eric Parrado, who now serves as IDB Invest’s Managing Director for Central America, Mexico, Panama, Dominican Republic, and Haiti. Image Credit: Inter-American Development Bank
Laura Alfaro, renowned Harvard Business School professor, has been appointed as the new Chief Economist and Economic Counselor for the Inter-American Development Bank, marking a significant milestone in economic leadership for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Sarah Smith and Brit Grosskopf to lead UK's Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029 Economics & Econometrics Assessment
Appointments have been made for the leadership positions of the 34 expert sub-panels that will assess research in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029. The selected chairs and deputy chairs will guide their units through the assessment process. The full panels, which should represent a diverse range of expertise in each field, will be announced in summer 2025. The REF is managed by Research England in collaboration with other UK higher education funding bodies to promote a world-class research environment and allocate research funding effectively. The REF aims to evaluate research excellence in UK higher education providers, influencing the allocation of approximately £2 billion annually for universities' research. Specifically, for Sub-panel 16: Economics and Econometrics, Sarah Smith a Professor of Economics at the University of Bristol has been appointed as the Chair, with Brit Grosskopf from the University of Exeter as the Deputy Chair. Both bring extensive experience and expertise to their roles. Sarah Smith, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as the Chair of the economics and econometrics Sub-Panel. Sarah's career has been marked by significant contributions to the field of economics, having held positions at renowned institutions such as the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), the Financial Services Authority (FSA), HM Treasury, and the London School of Economics (LSE). She is also a Research Associate at the IFS and a Research Fellow at the Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR). In addition to her academic achievements, Sarah is known for her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in economics. She is the founder and co-chair of Discover Economics, a campaign aimed at increasing diversity among economics students. Sarah was awarded an OBE in the 2022 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to economics and education. Her impactful work extends to various roles on esteemed committees and advisory panels, reflecting her leadership and influence within the economics community. Brit Grosskopf, the newly appointed Deputy Chair of the Sub-panel, brings a unique blend of expertise in experimental economics and psychology to her role. Originally from Germany, Brit completed her PhD in Social Preferences and Learning in Experimental Games at the Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona. Her academic journey has taken her to esteemed institutions such as Harvard Business School and Texas A&M University before joining the University of Exeter. Brit's research interests lie at the intersection of economics and psychology, focusing on individual and group behavior, social preferences, reasoning, learning, reputation, identity, and happiness. Her innovative use of experimental methods has garnered research support from prestigious organizations such as the National Science Foundation, the British Academy, and the Russell Sage Foundation. Brit's leadership in experimental economics is highlighted by her role as the founder of the Birmingham Experimental Economics Laboratory (BEEL) at the University of Birmingham. Speaking of the appointments across all 34 fields, REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said: “I’m delighted to welcome this outstanding group to lead the REF 2029 sub-panels. Their deep expertise and broad perspectives will be central to building an assessment process that is fair, rigorous, and trusted by the research community. We have been working in partnership with the sector throughout this process, and I’m grateful to everyone who expressed interest – your engagement is what strengthens the credibility and value of the REF across our research landscape.” Image Credits: University of Bristol / Behavioural and Experimental Economists (BEE) UK / REF 2029
Sarah Smith (Bristol) and Brit Grosskopf (Exeter) have been appointed as the Chair and Deputy Chair respectively to the Economics and Econometrics Sub-Panel for the UK's Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029
Royal Economics Society announces Professor Imran Rasul as RES President for 2025/26
Together with the announcement of Professor Rasul as President, the RES simultaneously confirmed the appointment of Professor Tony Venables (Oxford) as President-Elect for 2025-2026, and Professor Diane Coyle (Cambridge) as President-Elect for 2026-2027, following the RES Annual General Meeting (AGM) last week, 21-23 May, where the appointments were formalised. Rasul, a professor at University College London, is known for his work on wealth concentration and economic inequality. He is Director of the Centre for the Microeconomic Analysis of Public Policy at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, and served as a Council Member and Trustee of the Royal Economic Society (RES) from 2018-2023 and Chaired the RES Publications Committee from 2018-21. Venables is a senior research fellow at Oxford, and has vast expertise in international trade and economic development. As well as professorships at Manchester, Southampton, LSE, and Oxford, he also served as chief economist in the UK Department for International Development. Both will now sit on the two governing bodies of the RES, the Trustee Board and the RES Council. Rasul takes over from Prof. Sir Christopher Pissarides (LSE), 2010 winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics, who remains on the RES Council in the role of Immediate Past-President. The AGM also confirmed six new Council members, who will serve from May 2025 to May 2030. Image Credit: Royal Economics Society
The Royal Economic Society (RES) has announced that Professor Imran Rasul (UCL) is confirmed as RES President for the upcoming year.
Urban, Rural and Transportation Economics (JEL R)
Econometrics, Statistics and Quantitative Methods (JEL C)
Agricultural and Environmental Economics (JEL Q)
Biswo Nath Poudel appointed as Nepalese central bank governor
The 49-year-old Poudel, a former economic adviser at the International Labour Organization (ILO), replaces Maha Prasad Adhikari, who completed his five-year term on April 7. The position of the central bank chief had been vacant for over 40 days due to disagreements among allies of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli's ruling coalition regarding the candidate selection process. Poudel's appointment is seen as a resolution to the impasse, as he is considered to have close ties to the centrist Nepali Congress party, a key member of the ruling coalition. Reuters reports that Poudel's immediate challenges include addressing the health of the banking sector, which analysts note has been significantly impacted, requiring swift correction to improve the quality of banking assets. There are also concerns regarding the misuse of loans by borrowers, prompting a need for enhanced supervision of commercial banks. Additionally, Poudel faces the task of steering Nepal out of the "grey list" of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global anti-money laundering watchdog. This challenge emphasizes the importance of implementing measures to combat money laundering effectively under his leadership. Poudel received his PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, has held several government posts in Nepal, and is a professor at Kathmandu University. Photo Credit: Nepal Rastra Bank
Economist Biswo Nath Poudel has been appointed as the new governor of Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central bank of Nepal, ending a prolonged discord within the ruling coalition of Nepal.
Students Take Centre Stage at 2025 Irish Young Economist of the Year National Awards
More than 300 second-level students aged 12-18 from various schools in Ireland participated in the event, showcasing their curiosity and critical thinking skills in economics. The event, which took place on 8th May and is now in its twelfth year, aims to promote an understanding and enjoyment of economics among young people. This year's entries covered a wide array of topics such as climate change, inflation, AI, housing, global trade, sport, gender equality, and more, demonstrating the relevance of economics in analyzing modern societal complexities. Seamus Coffey, of the Irish Economic Association, introduces the YEOTY Awards 2025 The national award was presented by Seamus Coffey, President of the Irish Economic Association, to Mir Hasibullah Zia and Daniel Dillon, from Wexford CBS, for their project titled "The Dependency Trap: How Ireland's Reliance on Multinationals Deepens Economic Imbalances", which focused on the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Ireland. Their project stood out for its clear presentation, in-depth analysis, and incorporation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). YEOTY National Award Winners (Senior Category) Daniel Dillon (l) and Mir Hasibullah Zia (r) / Mir Hasibullah Zia (l) receiving the award from Seamus Coffey (r) The overall winner in the junior category was Iris Xinhe Li, from Rathdown School, for her project "Earth or Space: Which Economy will Launch us into the Future?". Additional prizes were awarded depending on age, county and topic area. The Central Bank of Ireland Award, for projects with a focus on the Irish economy and monetary policy was awarded to Swasti Sahoo, from Adamstown Community College for her project titled "The Paradox of Green Growth Can Capitalism Survive Without Infinite Resource Exploitation". The entries were reviewed by a judging panel made up of Central Bank economists. Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, commended the students on their projects during a remote address, acknowledging their critical thinking and contribution to policy discussions. Jack Chambers, Irish Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation addresses the YEOTY Awards 2025 Dr. Rachel Farrell, Chair of YEOTY, highlighted the exceptional standard of entries this year and praised the program for empowering students to explore important societal issues through evidence-based economic thinking. YEOTY is supported by various national partners, including universities, associations and government departments. The program plays a crucial role in enhancing data literacy and economic awareness among young people. With participation from schools across Ireland, this year's awards underscore the growing strength of economics education in the country. Congratulations were extended to all participants, recognizing the bright future of economics in Ireland lies in the hands of the talented and passionate students who took part in the event. Image Credits: Paul Moore Photography / YEOTY
Students took the spotlight at the 2025 Young Economist of the Year (YEOTY) National Awards, held at the Knocknarea Arena, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Sligo.
Antonin Bergeaud awarded 2025 Best Young (French) Economist Prize
The Best Young Economist Prize is awarded each year by Le Cercle des économistes, a French economics think tank, in association with Le Monde, a major French newspaper, to a French economist under the age of 41 who combines recognized expertise and active participation in public debate. As economies face increasingly profound shocks - climate, technological, geopolitical, demographic - a new generation of economists is delving into understanding them better. In the 26th edition of the Prize, the jury recognised Antonin Bergeaud, a 35-year-old associate professor in the economics department at HEC Paris, as exemplary of this movement. A specialist in long-term growth and innovation economics, Bergeaud explores a crucial question in his research: under what conditions can innovation still foster shared, sustainable, and equitable growth? In his academic work and in his essay "The Bright Future of Growth" (co-authored with Gilbert Cette and Rémy Lecat), Antonin Bergeaud investigates the drivers of growth since the 20th century to shed light on current obstacles. His approach combines analyzing productivity differences between companies, studying technological diffusion, and the rise of artificial intelligence as a transformative - even disruptive - factor in the labor market. With the promise of a "post-world" order based on digital technologies yet to translate into productivity figures, Bergeaud's research questions a well-known paradox among economists: how can we explain the fact that we are surrounded by innovation - but less and less productive? Moreover, how to combat the slowdown of growth without widening inequalities? These questions will resonate with the theme of the 2025 Aix-en-Provence Economic Meetings, titled "Facing the Shock of Realities", where Antonin Bergeaud will lead a session. The three economists nominated alongside Antonin Bergeaud also reflect the desire to rethink economics in light of contemporary disruptions. Adrien Bilal, a professor at Stanford, stands out as one of the most innovative researchers on the macroeconomic impacts of climate change. Lauriane Mouysset, a researcher at CNRS, intertwines economics, ecology, and philosophy to build a biodiversity economy that rejects reducing nature to monetary value. Mathieu Parenti, a professor at the Paris School of Economics, develops valuable expertise on environmental and fiscal externalities in open economies. As instability becomes the norm and shocks multiply, economic research has never been more crucial to give meaning, direction, and method to collective action. By highlighting these directions of study, the 2025 Best Young Economist Prize outlines a concrete vision for the field of economics, rooted in the world's changes and intent on informing public decisions. Image Credit: Olivier Vigerie / Les Cercle des économistes
Antonin Bergeaud has been awarded the 2025 Best Young Economist Prize for his research focusing on major economic, technological, and ecological disruptions.
Global Economy Prize 2025 Winners Announced
The prestigious award, which aims to inspire solutions to global economic challenges, will be presented in the categories of politics, business, and economics. This year's honorees under the theme 'Courage for Change' include Gabrielius Landsbergis for politics, Hélène Huby for business, and Prof. Dr. Monika Schnitzer for economics. In the politics category, Gabrielius Landsbergis, the Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, is lauded for his far-sighted foreign policy strategies, particularly regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Landsbergis' proactive approach and insightful analysis have helped position Lithuania as a respected voice within NATO. Hélène Huby, Co-Founder and CEO of The Exploration Company in Munich, has been recognized in the business category for her expertise in the aviation industry and her entrepreneurial spirit in democratizing space exploration through European solutions. Huby's pioneering efforts in developing sustainable and affordable transportation to space stations and the moon have set her apart as a leader in the European space industry. Professor Dr. Monika Schnitzer, Chairwoman of the German Council of Economic Experts and a Professor at LMU Munich, has been honored in the economics category for her groundbreaking work in empirical microeconomics. Schnitzer's innovative research methods and ability to translate complex economic concepts into practical policy recommendations have earned her acclaim as an exceptional policy advisor. Her talent for communicating economic theories in an accessible manner has also made her a highly regarded educator among students. The winners will be presented with the Global Economy Prize at an award ceremony during Kiel Week on June 23, 2025, in Kiel. The selection process for the award involved proposals from the IfW Kiel network, with final nominees chosen by a jury comprising prominent figures from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, the City of Kiel, and the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Industry and Commerce. Through their outstanding contributions to their respective fields, Landsbergis, Huby, and Schnitzer have demonstrated exemplary leadership in their fields, and a commitment to fostering positive change in a global economic landscape. Image Credits: IFW Kiel / IFW Kiel
The 2025 winners of the Global Economy Prize have been announced by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, in collaboration with the City of Kiel and the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
Winners Announced of IsDB Prize for Impactful Achievement in Islamic Economics
The first prize was awarded to Medikids, with its innovative waqf* initiative addressing management challenges in Indonesia. The project leverages Medikid's dental clinics for children and families to generate sustainable funding, which in turn finances a scholarship for healthcare professionals and supports social welfare initiatives. The committee decided to withhold second place. The Blue Filter initiative, which created a prototype to purify water by removing harmful pollutants, received the third-place prize. These awards will be presented at the IsDB Group Annual Meetings in Algiers, Algeria, between 19 and 22 May, 2025. IsDB Group Chairman Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser praised the winners for their contributions to Islamic economics, emphasizing the importance of translating principles into actionable initiatives for economic development. The selection committee highlighted the sustainable and effective nature of both winning projects, recognizing their alignment with IsDB's strategic goals. The IsDB Prize, established in 1998, initially focused on Islamic economics, banking, and finance. It expanded in 2020 to include categories of Development Achievement and Knowledge Contribution. The 2025 cycle emphasizes successful projects in IsDB member countries and Muslim communities globally. *waqf is a type of charitable endowment in islamic law. Image Credit: Islamic Development Bank
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has announced the winners of the 2025 IsDB Prize for Impactful Achievement in Islamic Economics.
Reza Daniels announced as new Dean of the Faculty of Economic Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University
With extensive experience in leadership roles and a background in development economics, applied econometrics and environmental economics, Daniels is set to bring valuable expertise to his new position. He has a strong research background and has been involved in significant studies such as the National Income Dynamics Study. Additionally, Daniels has a track record of contributions to academia and beyond, having studied at the University of Auckland and the University of Michigan, before receiving his PhD from the University of Cape Town. He served in various roles in the public and private sectors, as well as for international development banks. His appointment has been welcomed by the university's leadership, Stellenbosch University Rector and Vice Chancellor Prof. Deresh Ramjugernath, who was quoted as saying: "I'm delighted to welcome Prof Reza Daniels to SU as the new Dean of the EMS Faculty. He joins us with a wealth of experience and an inspiring track record in higher education leadership, research and social impact." Ramjugernath added that Daniels has the potential to make a meaningful impact on both the institution and South Africa as a whole. Daniels expressed his excitement about joining the faculty at Stellenbosch University and his commitment to realizing the university's vision for the future, including further developing Stellenbosch as a knowledge hub in Africa, and producing economic and social impact. Image Credit: Reza Daniels
Prof. Reza Daniels has been appointed as the new Dean of the Faculty of Economic Management Sciences at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. His appointment comes after Prof Ingrid Woolard stepped down as Dean last year, with Daniels now set to lead the Faculty of EMS from November 1, 2025.
Stefanie Stantcheva named Clark Medalist 2025
Stantcheva is a Professor of Political Economy at Harvard University, and an NBER Research Fellow. Stantcheva was awarded the John Bates Clark Medal for her work on how tax policy influences innovation, uncovering that tax policies significantly impact innovators' behaviors. Her studies, such as "Taxation and Innovation in the 20th Century," conducted with co-authors, reveal high elasticities in innovation in response to changes in tax policies. Another key contribution is her work on optimal tax policy, as demonstrated in "Optimal Taxation and Human Capital Policies over the Life Cycle," where she proposes income-contingent education loans as a means to incentivize human capital investment. She has utilized a variety of tools to explore the interplay between government taxation and private behavior, including mechanism design to analyze optimal tax policy in dynamic scenarios, empirical studies on the impact of taxes and subsidies on innovators' decisions, and surveys and experiments to examine public perceptions of redistribution and tax policies. Moreover, Stantcheva has pioneered the use of surveys and experiments to gauge public understanding and preferences on various policy issues, including tax policy, redistribution, and climate change. Through her innovative methodologies, she has shed light on the factors influencing support for redistribution and views on tax policies. Stantcheva's comprehensive body of work has provided valuable insights for informing policy debates on tax system design, offering fresh perspectives on traditional public finance questions. Her groundbreaking research has not only advanced the understanding of optimal tax policies but has also deepened our knowledge of how individuals perceive key policy issues. The John Bates Clark Medal is awarded annually by the American Economic Association to an economist under the age of forty, employed at a US institution, who is judged to have made the most significant contribution to economic thought and knowledge. Stantcheva joins a prestigious group of previous winners, including many economists who have subsequently won the Nobel Prize such as Esther Duflo (Clark Medalist in 2010), David Card (1995), Paul Krugman (1991), Joseph Stiglitz (1979), and Milton Friedmann (1951). Professor Stantcheva was featured in a January 2025 article on INOMICS about influential voices and rising stars among female economists. Image Credit: American Economic Association
Stefanie Stantcheva, an accomplished economist, has been named the Clark Medalist for 2025 for her significant contributions to the field of public economics.