What we do
As economies have become increasingly integrated and complex, you need insights based on robust, empirical analysis more than ever.
We take economic data and make it meaningful. Our bespoke models highlight trends and estimate impacts based on real-world outcomes, rather than unrealistic theories. Thanks to our emphasis on hard evidence, we can advise you with clarity and confidence.
Our economists work with organisations around the world, providing in-depth assessments of specialist topics and cross-sector overviews. Whatever your requirements, chances are we’re well equipped to help.
We also run bespoke courses in econometrics and economic modelling, so you can develop the capabilities of your in-house team.
Macro-economy and industries
We pioneered the development of whole-economy and sectoral analysis, building on the work of the Cambridge Growth Project founded by Nobel Prize winner Sir Richard Stone. We have also developed quantitative methods for measuring innovation performance, and work with clients and collaborators to inform policy design, nationally and internationally.
Our integrated approach shows the implications of wider economic changes for households and sectors, plus the implications of changes in particular sectors for the wider economy. It underpins all of the work we do.
For more information, please contact Graham Hay.
Recent examples of our work includes assessments of:
- the future of UK manufacturing for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills
- the economic impacts of the EU space programmes for DG GROW and ESA
- the risks associated with the internationalisation and fragmentation of value chains in space aerospace, software, semiconductors and electric vehicles, also for DG GROW
- We have also developed a demand-side innovation scoreboard as part of a monitoring project for the European Commission
Energy, climate and the circular economy
With 25 years’ experience in this area, we’re a global leader at identifying the key economy-energy-environment interactions at national and global level. Our E3ME model is one of the world’s most advanced tools for policy analysis.
We have specific expertise in climate finance and climate-related scenario analysis.
We can assess potential challenges for a national or global economy under alternative emissions and global temperature pathways. We also help financial institutions plan for the future and implement the recommendations of the Task-force on Climate related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
For more information, please contact Jon Stenning.
Recent examples of our work include:
- contributions to European Commission Impact Assessments of the 2030 climate and energy framework and the Energy Efficiency Directives
- an economic and employment evaluation of the EU’s Energy Roadmap 2050
- macroeconomic modelling for the Roadmap to a Resource Efficient Europe
- development of a state level macroeconomic model to assess renewables policy in India
- exploring the economic potential of disruptive new technologies (e.g. electric vehicles) and large-scale extraction of shale gas
Employment and skills
We have an international track record of modelling, forecasting and analysing labour, employment and skills. With our in-depth understanding of key drivers, we can analyse detailed labour market information to interpret current and future trends. We are able to estimate the economic value of investment in human capital, and to assess the implications for the labour market of economic and policy changes.
For more information, please contact Mike May-Gillings.
Recent examples of our work include:
- analysis and visualisation of labour market indicators, as demonstrated in the European Skills Panorama
- providing the UK’s official employment and skills projections, Working Futures, and pan-European labour demand and supply forecasts
- estimating the costs and benefits of possible EU measures to facilitate work-life balance for parents and care givers
- assessing the potential of education to cause macroeconomic imbalances and negative spill-overs
- developing a model to measure the economic impact of the further education sector
Regions, cities and local areas
We undertake rigorous and innovative analysis and forecasting for regional and local government and business, to support planning and policy decisions. Our Local Economy Forecasting Model and the Chelmer population and housing model enable us to carry out systematic impact assessments and identify future trends.
For more information, please contact Ben Gardiner.
Recent examples include:
- contributing district-level population projections to future housing needs assessments
- designing and implementing forecasting models for local areas
- setting out economic priorities for the first phase of the Cambridge City Deal
Infrastructure
Transport and its associated infrastructure are a key driver of economic development. We are at the forefront of improving the evaluation of the impacts of major transport projects, by framing these in economic, rather than simply cost-benefit analysis, terms.
For more information, please contact Adam Brown.
Recent examples of our work include:
- co-leading the Northern Powerhouse Independent Economic Review for Transport for the North
- supporting Highways England in the development of their Strategic Economic Growth Plan
- assessing the economic impact of rail interventions for the Department for Transport
Health & Social Care
Good health and wellbeing are integral to a well-functioning and thriving society and economy. Our work in this field helps decisionmakers to anticipate pressures on health and social care systems allowing them to plan more effectively for the future. Assessing the impacts and providing clarity on the wider effects of policies is key. To do this we apply a wide range of research methods including statistics/econometrics, demographic projections, scenario modelling and stakeholder interviews.
For more information, please contact Chris Thoung.
Recent examples of our work include:
- an assessment of the long-term economic impacts of introducing national health insurance in the Bahamas, as a step towards universal health coverage
- an analysis of local care systems in England to better understand regional variations in circumstances and pressures, and to draw out the implications for future policy
- the development of a framework to understand who bears the costs of chronic diseases and who might gain from improved treatment and management, with a focus on diabetes
- demographic and economic analysis to identify future healthcare needs in local areas and proposed new towns, along with critical uncertainties
Training courses
We provide training tailored to the needs of business, government and academia. Our short, intensive courses equip you with best-practice techniques in econometric analysis, using quantitative models and how they can be applied for forecasting and scenario analysis. Courses range from introductory modules to intermediate and advanced techniques, according to your background and needs.
For more information, please contact Ben Gardiner.
Recent examples of our courses include:
- delivering an econometrics training course for King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC), Saudi Arabia
- providing E3ME training to the Swedish Energy Agency
- delivering training in the use of a bespoke regional model developed by CE to the Brazilian Ministry of Finance
- running a time series econometrics course for the Government Economic Service