David McWilliams

Former Chief European Economist at UBS, Head of Emerging Markets Research at Banque Nationale De Paris, World Economic Forum Young Global Leader & Economic Media Commentator

David McWilliams’ Biography:

David McWilliams is an acclaimed economist, author, journalist and broadcaster, widely recognised for accurately forecasting some of the most significant economic and political events of recent decades, including the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, the UK’s Brexit vote and Donald Trump’s presidential victory. Renowned for making complex economic issues accessible, David combines expert analysis with humour and engaging storytelling to explain global trends, geopolitics, currencies and financial markets. A frequent contributor to Google’s prestigious Zeitgeist conference and a TED speaker, he is an outstanding keynote speaker who helps audiences understand the forces shaping the global economy.

David graduated in Economics from Trinity College Dublin before beginning his career as an economist at the Irish Central Bank. He went on to become Chief European Economist at UBS before serving as Head of Emerging Markets Research at Banque Nationale de Paris. Alongside his financial career, he established himself as one of Ireland’s leading economic commentators, writing for The Sunday Business Post, the Irish Independent and The Irish Times, while also presenting programmes on Newstalk radio. Today, he is Adjunct Professor of Global Economics at Trinity College Dublin, continuing to educate future economists while advising businesses and governments on economic change.

A bestselling author of multiple books, including ‘The History of Money’, David has presented award-winning documentaries and created the popular Punk Economics animated series, alongside launching a successful online economics course. His acclaimed ‘The David McWilliams Podcast’ has surpassed 40 million downloads, making it one of Europe’s leading economics podcasts. Named Ireland’s most influential Twitter user and ranked among the world’s most influential economists, he was also recognised as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

David is also the co-founder of Kilkenomics, the world’s first economics and comedy festival, demonstrating his belief that economics should be engaging and accessible to everyone. As the first economist to identify Ireland’s economic boom as a credit bubble, his willingness to challenge conventional thinking has earned him an international reputation. Whether addressing corporate leaders, financial institutions or public audiences, David delivers insightful, entertaining and thought-provoking presentations that leave audiences better equipped to navigate economic uncertainty.

Why Hire David McWilliams?

David McWilliams offers audiences a unique combination of economic expertise, accurate forecasting and engaging communication. Drawing on decades of experience across banking, academia, journalism and broadcasting, he explains complex global issues with clarity, wit and practical relevance. His TED talk, ‘The Power of Unconventional Thinking’, together with appearances at Google’s Zeitgeist conference and major international events, demonstrates his ability to inspire fresh perspectives. Organisations book David to gain valuable insight into economic trends, geopolitical developments, innovation and the future of global markets.

David McWilliams‘ Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define David McWilliams’ remarkable career:

  • 2025 – Continued his work as Adjunct Professor of Global Economics at Trinity College Dublin while producing internationally recognised economic commentary through his writing, podcast and speaking engagements.
  • 2019 – Founded and began hosting ‘The David McWilliams Podcast’, which has since achieved over 40 million downloads.
  • 2010 – Co-founded Kilkenomics, the world’s first economics and comedy festival.
  • 2005 – Became a columnist for the Irish Independent, expanding his influence as an economic commentator.
  • 2002 – Joined The Sunday Business Post as a writer covering economics and business.
  • 2002 – Presented radio programmes on Newstalk, bringing economics to mainstream audiences.
  • 2000s – Identified Ireland’s economic boom as a credit bubble and warned of its impending collapse.
  • 1990s – Served as Head of Emerging Markets Research at Banque Nationale de Paris after working as Chief European Economist at UBS.
  • 1990s – Appointed Chief European Economist at UBS, analysing international financial markets.