Ben Chu is a distinguished British journalist, speaker, and broadcaster specialising in economics and current affairs. Currently serving as the Policy and Analysis Correspondent at BBC Verify, he previously held the position of Economics Editor for BBC's flagship programme, Newsnight. Prior to his tenure at the BBC, Ben was the Economics Editor and Chief Leader Writer at The Independent, showcasing his extensive experience in economic journalism.
Ben pursued Modern History at Jesus College, Oxford. His journalistic career commenced at The Independent, where he contributed leading articles before advancing to the role of Chief Leader Writer. His profound understanding of economic issues and adeptness at articulating complex concepts to a broad audience facilitated his progression to Economics Editor at the publication.
Throughout his career, Ben has achieved several notable accomplishments. His first book, 'Chinese Whispers: Why Everything You’ve Heard About China is Wrong', published in 2013, was nominated for International Affairs Book of the Year at the Paddy Power Political Book Awards in 2014. He has reported from countries including the US, China, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Germany, France, Switzerland, and Ireland, covering significant events such as the global financial crisis, the eurozone emergency, Brexit, and Donald Trump's trade wars. Additionally, Ben was nominated for Business Journalist of the Year at the 2015 British Journalism Awards and for Business Commentator of the Year at the 2018 Comment Awards.
Ben is highly sought after as a speaker due to his comprehensive expertise in economics and current affairs, combined with his ability to convey intricate topics with clarity and insight. His extensive experience in journalism and broadcasting, along with his in-depth knowledge of global economic issues, make him an authoritative and engaging speaker for a wide range of audiences.
How to hire Ben Chu
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Ben Chu for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
- 2025 - Set to Publish 'Exile Economics: What Happens if Globalisation Fails'
- 2025 – Released BBC Radio 4 documentary The Strange Death of Cultural Originality
- 2024 – Produced BBC Verify segment on 'Get Britain Working'
- 2024 – Analysed Green Party manifesto for BBC Verify
- 2023 – Released BBC Radio 4 documentary Hidden Masters of the Universe
- 2021 – Appointed Economics Editor for BBC Newsnight
- 2020 – Part-time Economics Editor for The Independent
- 2019 – Became Economics Editor at BBC Newsnight
- 2018 – Nominated Business Commentator of the Year at Comment Awards
- 2015 – Finalist Business Journalist of the Year at British Journalism Awards
- 2014 – Chinese Whispers shortlisted for International Affairs Book of the Year
- 2013 – Published 'Chinese Whispers: Why Everything You’ve Heard About China is Wrong'
- 2011 – Promoted Economics Editor at The Independent