Dharshini David

Dharshini David is an award-winning broadcaster, economist, and best-selling author, currently serving as the BBC’s Chief Economics Correspondent. With a career spanning both finance and media, Dharshini is renowned for her sharp analysis and clear communication of complex economic issues, presenting programmes for Radio 4 and covering key global events that shape the financial landscape.

Dharshini’s journey began after earning her Economics degree from Cambridge University. She joined the Government Economic Service before moving to HSBC Investment Bank, where she worked as the UK Economist, providing analysis and insights from the trading floor. Her passion for making economics accessible to a wider audience led her to the BBC, where she transitioned from the world of finance to become a respected broadcaster. Dharshini covered economics and presented financial programmes in London, later moving to New York, where she led coverage of the global financial crisis, providing critical analysis as events unfolded.

In addition to her work at the BBC, Dharshini has also been a prominent face on Sky, presenting primetime business and political programmes. Her expertise earned her a seat on the consumer finance board of the financial regulator, where she contributed her insights on policy, and she has also advised the boards of major companies such as Tesco and Legal & General, helping them navigate the complexities of the financial world.

Dharshini rejoined the BBC in 2018, initially as the Business Presenter for "Today", the BBC's flagship radio programme. Her investigative journalism was recognised in 2022 when her "Radio 4 Analysis" documentary, “Is Britain the Sick Man of Europe?”, won the prestigious Wincott Prize for financial journalism. Judges praised the documentary as a shining example of “the BBC at its best,” underscoring Dharshini’s ability to tackle complex financial and social issues with depth and clarity.

As the BBC’s Chief Economics Correspondent, Dharshini plays a crucial role in holding policymakers to account, delivering in-depth reports on pressing issues such as long-term sickness, gender pay inequality, sustainability, and Brexit. Her work is not only informative but also impactful, ensuring that economic challenges are brought to the forefront of public debate.

Dharshini is also a highly respected author. Her first book, "The Almighty Dollar" (2018), became a best-seller, providing a compelling guide to understanding the global economy through the journey of a single US dollar. Her upcoming book, "Environomics" (2024), delves into the critical intersection of economics and sustainability, offering readers a forward-looking perspective on how economic systems must adapt to environmental challenges.

Throughout her career, Dharshini has demonstrated a rare ability to bridge the gap between the financial world and everyday understanding. Her work continues to shape public discourse on the economy, making her one of the most influential voices in the field today. Whether she’s presenting on television or radio, advising industry leaders, or authoring best-selling books, Dharshini’s insights are invaluable to those seeking to understand the evolving global financial landscape.