Gareth Leather
Gareth is a Senior Emerging Markets Economics at Capital Economics. He has previously held many different roles, including Senior Asia Economist at the Economic Intelligence Unit, and an Economist at the Ministry of Defence.
Why did you choose to study economics?
I have always been interested in politics and understanding global affairs. Economics is key to understanding how the world works. It allows us to answer questions such as why some countries are rich and others are poor. It also gives you a better understanding of the forces driving Brexit/Trump and the main causes of the current cost of living crisis.
How would you describe economics?
I get asked this question by my son a lot and it is hard to put into words. This is the best definition I can think of: it is a branch of knowledge concerned with the production, consumption, and transfer of wealth.”
If you had a time machine and could meet your 16-year-old self, what advice would you give them?
Think long and hard about your A level choices and chose subjects that you are most interested in, not ones that you think will help you get a good job.
What is your favourite part of economics?
All of it apart from econometrics. Too much maths and computers, which I think can take away some of the enjoyment of understanding how economies work and following the news. My university degree had too much maths, which spoilt the experience.
Is there anything you would do differently if you had the chance?
No.