Investec chief economist to discuss latest developments in the Euro crisis

The Euro crisis will be at the centre of a presentation by Investec's chief economist this month.

Philip Shaw (pictured) will lead a breakfast briefing in Guernsey on 15 May and in Jersey on Wednesday 16 May focussing on fears over Spanish fiscal policy with key elections in France and Greece.

‘UK growth disappointed last year with a number of factors resulting in considerable volatility in the economic data,' said Mr Shaw.

‘This year looks to be both uncertain and volatile with factors such as spending cuts, the Eurozone crisis and even drought playing a key role. I will also be raising the question over whether there is more traction to global economic growth this year,' he said.

‘We are delighted that Philip is able to return to host this year's breakfast briefings as his presentations are always extremely insightful and interesting. This year we have decided to extend invitations not just to the business leaders, but also to sixth form economics students and I am sure that those attending will find the presentation interesting and highly topical,' said Stephen Henry, head of Investec Bank (Channel Islands) Limited.

The students attending will also be invited to take part in a competition predicting several economic indices to win an iPad in each island.

Mr Shaw is regularly interviewed on television and frequently quoted in the national and regional press on economic issues and is a regular commentator on the state of the economy and generally on business.

Mr Shaw began his career within Investec Private Bank in 1997 in London and covers both UK and global economic issues. He has devoted much of his time to working in Investec's Capital Markets area but has been part of the Investec Securities' team for the past seven years.

Before joining Investec Bank, Mr Shaw, 50, who is married with two children, was chief economist at Union Discount where he gained particular expertise in interest rate markets and central bank watching. He started his career with The Government Economic Service and then worked for clearing bank as an economist. He has an economics degree from the University of Bath and a Masters degree in econometrics from the University of Manchester.

Members of the public are also invited to attend the breakfast briefing, which will take place in Guernsey at The Colborne Room, Old Government House Hotel from 8am on Tuesday 15 May and at The Celestial Hall, Royal Yacht Hotel, Jersey from 8am on Wednesday 16 May. Should you wish to attend, please email ibcievents@investec-ci.com by Friday 11 May 2012.