City of London Corporation
Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Introduction City of London research is commissioned to be independent,
By partnering with some of the leading experts in their field, we
accurate and evidence-based. Our intention is to inform and
have again sought not simply to respond to developments,
support practitioners and policymakers within the City of London
but to drive debate and put London at the forefront of the
Corporation, but also at a City-wide, London-wide, national
major issues that will shape the economic future, not only of
and international level. The research, the product of an active
the financial and professional services sectors, but of the UK as
engagement with our stakeholders and partners, looks at the
a whole. Together with key partners the City of London has this
performance trends that affect the City, London and the UK’s
year been a founding member of the Social Investment Research
success as a competitive provider of professional and financial
Council, established to support and help build the nascent UK
services to the global economy.
social investment market through the provision of the practicallyfocused research that this fast-growing market needs to develop.
In early 2013, the UK government was dealing with fears of a triple-dip recession and a continuing deterioration in public
This year we have published research in four different categories.
finances. Fast forward to the end of the year however, and the
Our Research Reports and Periodicals address an overarching
picture had begun to look very different. The triple-dip recession
research theme or set of issues in depth, generally involving new
failed to materialise, as the economy continued to slowly
primary research or substantial review. Special Interest Papers
strengthen throughout the year, with GDP growth of 0.8% in the
look at a specific issue to generate discussion and inform debate,
third quarter of 2013.
and our Practitioner Policy Papers focus on technical subjects of particular interest to practitioners in industry sectors. Topical Issues
Globally, however, the economic fortunes of the developed
Papers are short pieces exploring a current issue.
and the developing world continued to fluctuate. Growth in the eurozone remained flat with even the economic powerhouse
During 2013, the City of London’s research programme covered
of Germany reporting disappointing figures. Conversely, the US,
six key areas:
despite its well-reported debt problems, was able to report strong annualised growth, while the BRIC economies of Brazil, Russia,
n Competitiveness and Infrastructure
India and China appeared to be slowing (although China’s
n City Industries
projected output growth remained strong at close to 8% for 2013).
n EU and Regulation
n Community and Corporate Responsibility Against this uncertain backdrop, London will need to be alert
n Social Investment
to not only its strengths and weaknesses as it seeks to maintain
n International Markets
its leading global business role, but also the threats and opportunities generated by the current economic environment. Our programme of economic research sets out to address many of these critical issues from an analysis of the physical infrastructure requirements needed to maintain London’s worldleading status as a global financial centre, to an assessment of the possible implications of a financial transaction tax on corporate and sovereign debt. However, our focus is not only on the financial services sector of the City. We recognise the broad range of factors that contribute to making London an attractive and fulfilling place, where people want to live and work, whether it’s the quality of the green spaces throughout the capital, or the City’s vibrant arts and culture offer.
1 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Key Areas Competitiveness and Infrastructure
City Industries
Having an effective location to operate from is critical for any
The interdependence of City-based small to medium-sized
business, and the breadth and depth of the City’s office stock is
enterprises (SMEs) with other firms in the City is explored in City
examined in Taking Stock: The Relationship between Businesses
SME Supply Chains, which finds that almost two thirds of SMEs
and Office Provision in the City. Surprisingly perhaps, the study
procure goods and services from City-based firms. The news is
reveals a more diverse business mix than the popular perception
even better when it comes to the supply side, with 68% of City
of the City as a finance-dominated area might suggest. Over
SMEs making sales to other City-based firms.
half of the City’s occupied business space, for example, is spread between 11 key business sectors not including finance. Not all
The financial services sector increased its contribution to the
small occupiers are small businesses either: many are larger
UK Treasury by 3.2% in the year ending March 2013. According
businesses occupying small units of space (small to medium-sized
to Total Tax Contribution of UK Financial Services (sixth edition),
occupiers – SMOs). The fact that so many businesses occupy small
£65bn of taxes were paid by the sector, equating to 11.7% of total
units underlines the importance of the City in providing a wide
UK government tax receipts. Taxes paid include corporation tax
range of building types, specification and cost options for the
of £6.5bn (up from £5.4bn the previous year) with employment
SMO economy.
taxes generated by the sector of £28.4bn (£27.7bn in 2012).
Institutional Investment in London’s Market Rented Sector by contrast, looks at the opportunities posed by increasing institutional investment in private, domestic accommodation as a means of fostering economic growth, whilst simultaneously raising living standards for families and improving residential supply to meet an increasing demand for new homes.
Publications 2013
Publications 2013
n T aking
n
n
Stock: The Relationship between Businesses and Office Provision in the City I nstitutional Investment in London’s Market Rented Sector
City SME Supply Chains Contribution of UK Financial Services (sixth edition)
n T otal Tax
2 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Key Areas
EU and Regulation
Community and Corporate Responsibility
With the debate on the UK’s membership of the European Union
London is Europe’s greenest major city, highlights Green Spaces:
expected to build towards the next general election, Switzerland
The Benefits for London. The paper identifies the role of green
provides a case study of a European country that has foregone
spaces in providing a range of economic, social, environmental
complete access to the Single Market. Switzerland’s Approach
and physical, mental and well-being benefits – which are an
to EU Engagement: A Financial Services Perspective looks at
often overlooked component in considering the offer of the
Switzerland’s bilateral sectoral agreements with the EU and the
world’s mega-cities. With such an abundance of green space,
impact of the political and legal framework on the operations
London cannot afford to be complacent to the threat posed
of the country’s financial services sector. Concluding that
to the capital’s trees by a growing range of pests and diseases.
Swiss relations with the EU are ‘complicated, multifaceted and
London’s trees, according to Tree Diseases in London: The
increasingly uncertain’, the Swiss model is not necessarily an
Economic, Social and Environmental Impact play a core role in
approach that can be readily replicated.
the capital’s green infrastructure, contributing to air quality as well as acting as natural noise filters and offering recreational and
For those member states within the EU, the financial transaction
cultural value, among other benefits.
tax (FTT), continues to generate debate. The precise impact of such a tax is still unknown but The Impact of a Financial
It’s not just beautiful parks and gardens on offer in London, with
Transaction Tax on Corporate and Sovereign Debt argues that
the City home to one of the most diverse concentrations of high
the FTT could seriously increase the cost of capital for businesses,
quality arts and culture organisations and activities in the UK. The
and increase the cost of UK government debt by £3.95bn. In
Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the City Arts and Culture
addition, the FTT could lead to behavioural change amongst
Cluster finds that the City’s arts and culture cluster made a
market participants or lead to problems with collection which
significant economic contribution to the overall London economy
might lead to fewer revenues being collected.
in 2011/12, as well as contributing social benefits and establishing the City as providing a world class arts and culture offer.
Publications 2013
Publications 2013
n S witzerland’s Approach to EU Engagement: A Financial Services Perspective n The Impact of a Financial Transaction Tax on Corporate and Sovereign Debt
n Green Spaces: The Benefits for London n Tree Diseases in London: The Economic, Social and Environmental Impact n The Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the City Arts and Culture Cluster
3 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Key Areas
Social Investment
International Markets
Another area generating wealth for the UK is detailed in Growing
As fast-growing cities around the world look to establish
the Social Investment Market: The Landscape and Economic
themselves as international financial centres, they will need to
Impact, which assesses the size and characteristics of the UK
go through a number of key stages of development states From
social investment market and, for the first time, calculates the
Local to Global: Building a Modern Financial Centre. These stages
estimated economic impact of the frontline social ventures
include initially serving its local, developing economy, to opening
operating within this nascent sector. The research finds that the
up to foreign participants, through to becoming a regional
UK social investment market grew by almost a quarter between
centre, before finally establishing itself as an international financial
2010/11 and 2011/12 to £202m through 765 investments. The
centre. There is no simple blueprint for building an international
economic impact of these investments would create nearly 7,000
financial centre due to the variation of intangible factors – history,
jobs in 2012, and contribute £58m in gross value added (GVA) to
location and reputation of a centre, alongside tangible factors
the national economy.
– the regulatory environment and infrastructure. This report, however, identifies common themes and factors that underpin
This important sector would receive a major boost from the
the growth of a financial centre as it develops.
introduction of a social investment tax relief (SITR) according to The Role of Tax Incentives in Encouraging Social Investment.
Of course, emerging markets continue to play an ever more
This report identifies an appetite for social investment among
important role in global financial markets - the World Bank
high net worth individuals (those with investable assets £100,000+)
estimates that, led by Brazil, Russia, India and China (the BRICs),
and conservatively estimates that a SITR for individual investors
high growth and emerging markets will hold more than half
could potentially raise £165m (over three years) and £480m
of the global stocks of financial capital by 2030. Institutional
(over five years) worth of capital into the market if implemented.
Investment in the UK from Emerging Markets affirms that although
It stipulates however that the principles needed to underpin such
all four of the BRICs are at different stages of capital market
a tax relief include: a tight definition of eligibility; a focus on risk-
integration, there is significant potential for growth in investment
bearing capital; and a focus on individuals as investors.
to established markets from each. The UK, as an institutional investment hub, is well placed to benefit from the opportunities that this affords.
Publications 2013
Publications 2013
n G rowing the Social Investment Market: The Landscape and Economic Impact n The Role of Tax Incentives in Encouraging Social Investment
n F rom Local to Global: Building a Modern Financial Centre n Institutional Investment in the UK from Emerging Markets
4 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Competitiveness and Infrastructure
5 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Competitiveness and Infrastructure
Taking Stock: The Relationship Between Businesses and Office Provision in the City March 2013 Research Report Published in electronic and hard-copy format
In this report, produced by Ramidus Consulting Limited for the
The report also finds:
City of London Corporation, the breadth and depth of the City’s office stock and its occupational profile is examined to reveal a
Building occupiers
more diverse business mix than the popular perception of the City
n The occupier profile of the City is more diverse than might be
as a finance-dominated area. Over half of the City’s occupied
assumed, with half of the occupied space taken up by
business space is spread between 11 other key business sectors,
11 industries other than finance;
with a number of industry clusters in sectors such as media and
n Not all small occupiers are small businesses: many are
electronics, and advertising. In terms of size, 65% of the City’s total
larger businesses occupying small units of space (small to
office stock is in units of over 100,000 sq ft, although the study
medium-sized occupiers – SMOs). The fact that so many
emphasises that a balance is crucial in meeting the needs of
businesses occupy small units underlines the importance of the
smaller occupiers through provision of smaller, less highly specified
City providing a wide range of building types, specification and
and lower cost buildings.
cost for the SMO economy.
Built stock
Use of stock
Having looked at records for 69.8 million sq ft of office space in
n High levels of availability of space in an economic downturn is
the City as well as an additional 36 million sq ft of space in the
not necessarily an indicator of structural oversupply;
City fringes – representing all buildings over 1,000 sq ft and all
n A sustainable level of availability is key, in part to moderate
occupiers using more than 1,000 sq ft – the report finds there is a
rent levels, but also to ensure that there is adequate choice of
clear drift towards larger, higher specified buildings. Since 1997,
building types and sizes.
79% of City office stock built sits in the larger category of 100,000 sq ft and over. Smaller buildings are concentrated in conservation
Business clustering
areas which tend to provide older, less flexible and lower quality
n Business clusters come and go (the newspaper industry in Fleet
accommodation space compared to modern Grade A space.
Street for example). Will the current business cluster broaden into a more diverse set of land uses and will the occupier ecology
The importance of the City fringe is also emphasised, given it
widen to diversify away from financial services?
contains a substantial reserve of relatively inexpensive space with
n There is a balance to be struck between diversifying land use
good access to the City. However, a turnaround in values might
and maintaining the integrity of the business cluster.
encourage commercial developers to look at these areas to create larger Grade A space, while the value of residential stock
The results of the research demonstrate that the City’s functional
might also make residential conversion pressure an issue.
dynamics are richer and deeper than its headline role as a global financial centre may suggest.
6 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Competitiveness and Infrastructure
Institutional Investment in London’s Market Rented Sector January 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic copy format
Prepared for the City of London Corporation by Centre for
Challenges and capital opportunities
London, this paper, following the publication of the Montague
However, there are a number of challenges involved in increasing
Review, explores the case for promoting institutional investment
the involvement of institutional investors in the MRS:
in London’s market rented sector (MRS) as one way of increasing
n Rising house prices are seen as inevitable, creating a bias
the supply of new homes to meet growing demand, help to raise
towards selling new homes rather than retaining them for rent;
standards, and foster economic growth. The paper goes on to
n Doubts about rental yields compared to other investment
analyse some of the challenges facing potential institutional
options;
investors in this sector, and sets out ways in which key public and
n Schemes with longer-term vacancies can limit the range of
private sector players could work together to increase levels of
guaranteed exit options and negatively affect a development’s
institutional investment in London’s MRS.
value; n Concerns about potential high management costs.
The term ‘market rented sector’ (MRS) encompasses the private
That said, factors like job creation in London continuing to drive
rented sector (PRS), as well as landlords who let properties at
demand for rented property; restricted mortgage lending; a clear
market rent and therefore are external to the private sector, such
target audience and geography for the MRS in London; and a
as housing associations and local authorities.
possible cultural shift in home ownership perception, all represent opportunities for institutional investment.
Promoting institutional investment Based on desk research, interviews with industry experts and a
Next steps
roundtable discussion hosted by the City of London, the paper
The paper concludes by suggesting ways in which institutional
outlines how institutional investment could make an important
investment in the MRS could be encouraged, such as the
contribution to helping to increase new housing supply. Demand
creation of large scale MRS opportunities in London through a
for housing provision has grown due to a number of factors:
new market rented ‘Use Class’ to ensure new homes remained in
n London set to grow its population by an additional 786,000 by
the rental sector for a fixed period of years. Other possible options
2021;
include the increased involvement of pension funds such as the
n Rising expectations and changing lifestyles (preference
London Pension Authority in the MRS; raising standards in MRS
for larger homes and a move to single person households for
products; and use of the Government Guarantee Scheme where
example);
possible.
n Increased international investment in London’s residential market. In addition to meeting demand, institutional investment in London’s MRS could help boost economic growth, with every £1m of new housing output supporting 12 additional jobs in a year. As well as increasing supply, there is a need for better quality housing provision in the MRS, with a third of homes currently failing to meet the Decent Homes Standard, a challenge which institutional investment could help address.
7 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
City Industries
8 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 City Industries
City SME Supply Chains April 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
Nearly two thirds (63%) of small and medium-sized enterprises
Characteristics of a City location
(SMEs) in the City procure goods and services from other City-
Survey respondents, particularly legal firms, rated the prestige of
based firms, according to this study prepared for the City of
a City location as one of the most important benefits of operating
London Corporation by economics and planning consultants
in the City. Good transport links were seen as the second most
Bone Wells Urbecon in association with London Metropolitan
important benefit of a City location, while over half of SMEs
University. Commissioned to look at SME supply chains, and their
surveyed felt that being close to customers is an important or very
buying and selling trends within the City and City fringe areas,
important benefit of their location.
the study also finds that 68% of City SMEs also make sales to other businesses in the City. The report further identifies the advantages
Looking at the role of networking and the City, those SMEs in
and disadvantages for an SME of being based in the City when
the business services sector are most likely to belong to formal
it comes to procurement and sales, with recommendations
business organisations in the City, benefitting from the access to
including networking ‘meet the buyer’ style events to enhance
information and intelligence that they provide. Just under half
inter-trading.
(45%) belong to informal networks based in the City of London or surrounding boroughs, with the main value perceived to be the
Key findings
development of new business collaborations as well as access to
The research involved surveying 201 SMEs, supplemented with ten
information and intelligence.
in-depth interviews with SMEs across varying sectors in the City of London. The study found that for those City SMEs buying:
Recommendations
n 63% – typically professional, scientific and technical
The report concludes that a programme of trade fairs and
organisations, as well as personal service providers such as
networking events would enhance inter-trading between
hairdressers – buy from others based in the City;
City-based SMEs as well as those in neighbouring boroughs.
n Only 39% of purchases by City SMEs are made from businesses
It also suggests that:
based in the City fringes;
n City-based SMEs could be made more aware of the benefits
n Key reasons for purchasing within the City are the proximity of
of their location and be provided with more and easier access to
businesses and the good reputation of businesses based there.
publicly-funded business support; n Collaboration with trade bodies and institutes in the City would
While City SMEs selling practices:
be beneficial in terms of disseminating information about events,
n 68% – typically those in the information and communication
seminars and research findings relevant to SMEs;
as well as the professional, scientific and technical sector – make
n Further work should be done to encourage innovation.
sales to other City firms; n Around half (52%) make sales to firms in the City fringes; n There is a relationship between firm size and the proportion of sales made within the City, with larger SMEs most likely to sell within the City.
9 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 City Industries
Total Tax Contribution of UK Financial Services (sixth edition) December 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
The UK financial services (FS) sector paid in the region of
largest taxes borne and collected. It is estimated that financial
£65bn in total taxes to the Government for the year ending
services companies pay £26,674 in employment taxes on average
March 2013, according to this annual research produced by
for each employee;
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and published by the City of London
n Corporation tax remains the third largest tax borne (19.0% of
Corporation. Equating to 11.7% of total UK government tax
total taxes borne). There has been an increase in corporation
receipts, the figure represents an increase of 3.2% over the same
tax in the year but a larger increase in other taxes borne so that
period in the 2011/12 financial year. Additionally, the study finds
corporation tax is a smaller percentage of total taxes borne than
that taxes borne by the FS sector have increased by 4.6% since
last year (2012: 21.9%).
2012, driven by increases in corporation tax and the bank levy. The study reflects a changing tax system over the six studies. This sixth edition total tax research calculates the size of the
In 2013, corporation tax represents 19.0% of taxes borne (2007:
overall contribution that the financial services sector makes to the
40.8%), employers’ NI represents 34.9% (2007: 21.3%), and
UK economy in terms of tax revenue, and looks at all the different
irrecoverable VAT 22.1% (2007: 19.1%). The profile of taxes borne
taxes that companies pay and administer, including corporation
has moved from corporation tax to other taxes. In 2007, for every
tax, employment taxes, VAT and other taxes.
£1 of corporation tax there was £1.45 of other taxes, in 2013 the figure is £4.27.
The study’s findings include: n The FS sector paid an estimated amount of total taxes,
Rising Total Tax Rates
(including both taxes borne and taxes collected), in the region
The average Total Tax Rate for financial services companies
of £65bn, or 11.7% of total UK government tax receipts in the
in the 2013 study is 42.5% (2012: 39.5%). This is 3.0 percentage
year to 31st March 2013. This is 3.2% higher than last year’s
points higher than the Total Tax Rate in the 2012 study, but 6.1
estimate of the contribution of the UK financial services sector in
percentage points higher than in 2007, before the financial crisis.
2012 (£63bn; 11.6% of the total);
The Total Tax Rate is a measure of the cost of taxes in relation to
n According to government figures, total corporation tax paid
profitability and calculates the total taxes borne as a percentage
by the financial services sector in the period was £6.5bn, up from
of profits before all those taxes borne. Only taxes borne are
£5.4bn in the prior year;
included in the Total Tax Rate calculation; taxes collected are not
n £1.6bn of bank levy was paid by the financial services sector as
included. As profits have recovered since the 2009 study,
a whole – the same amount as paid in the previous period;
Total Tax Rates have reduced, but are still above the 2007 levels.
n Taxes borne by financial services companies in the study have
The increase in the Total Tax Rate in the last year is a combination
increased by 4.6% since 2012, driven by increases in corporation
of broadly stable profits along with an increase in taxes borne.
tax and bank levy; n Estimated employment taxes generated by the sector increased to £28.4bn, 11.3% of government receipts from employment (2012: £27.7bn; 11.8%) and constitute both the
10 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
EU and Regulation
11 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 EU and Regulation
Switzerland’s Approach to EU Engagement: A Financial Services Perspective April 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
As the UK continues to debate how it engages with the European
out its own trade and currency relations with the rest of the world;
Union, this paper looks at Switzerland’s past and present political
n It enjoys full freedom of movement of goods and people
engagement with the EU and finds that there have been
while being spared the costs and constraints of the Common
implications for the Swiss financial services sector in foregoing
Agricultural Policy and other policies;
complete access to the Single Market. Prepared for the City of
n Switzerland can also rapidly adjust EU rules in areas where it has
London Corporation by The University of Kent Centre for Swiss
decided to shadow the EU;
Politics, the paper also examines Switzerland’s bilateral sectoral
n Swiss-based financial services have so far been offered in the
agreements with the EU and the impact of its political and
EU through subsidiaries, but with the major share of added value
legal framework on the operations of the country’s financial
generated and supervision exercised at home.
services sector. However there are also a number of disadvantages listed, The paper shows that Switzerland’s approach to EU engagement
which include:
is complex with a set of disparate sector-specific bilateral
n The system provides Switzerland with virtually no political
agreements in areas such as free movement of persons, technical
influence;
barriers to trade, public procurement, agriculture, and civil
n The Swiss do not always know what new rules are coming,
aviation. There are now at least 120 technical accords, managed
which can be costly for the country’s businesses;
by 27 joint committees. Relations with the EU remain a matter
n The Government often has to use bilateral talks with member
of continuing domestic debate, with some talking of joining the
states in order to learn about EU policy intentions;
European Economic Area (EEA) or negotiating an Association
n Management of the various agreements is cumbersome and
agreement while others suggest blocking, not only moves towards
bureaucratic.
membership, but also any new bilateral arrangements. Uncertain relations Reliance on London
The study concludes by emphasising that Swiss relations with the
Although the Swiss financial sector is proportionally larger than its
EU are complicated, multifaceted and increasingly uncertain.
British counterpart, it has not featured prominently in formal Swiss-
Swiss financial services firms face a significant amount of legal
EU relations and, perhaps surprisingly, there is no bilateral service
insecurity and multiple but ‘equivalent’ regulatory regimes. They
agreement. Despite this, the Swiss financial sector has benefitted
depend on subsidiaries located in London and other European
from largely unfettered access to the EU, often through its
financial services centres to conduct cross-border business with
presence in London.
EU member states, unless a formal bilateral agreement including financial services is negotiated (as a stand-alone arrangement or
The impact on the Swiss financial services sector
as part of a package deal).
Large enterprises are relatively happy with the status quo, but some wealth managers and small firms have found operating
As an approach, Swiss relationships with the EU are not a formal
in EU markets increasingly difficult. Switzerland thus lacks the full
‘model’, and the Swiss approach does not lend itself to being
market access enjoyed by EEA-based financial bodies.
readily replicated.
The research highlights advantages of the Swiss approach, including: n The preservation of sovereignty, allowing Switzerland freedom both to decide what relations it will have with the EU, and to carry
12 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 EU and Regulation
The Impact of a Financial Transaction Tax on Corporate and Sovereign Debt April 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
The European Commission’s (EC) proposed financial transaction
n The FTT would represent a significant proportion of the one-year
tax (FTT) could seriously increase the cost of capital for businesses
return on many types of bonds. If issuers wanted to utilise debt
and governments, states this paper authored by London
securities markets they would have to offer significantly higher
Economics. Prepared for the International Regulatory Strategy
returns than presently, raising their cost of capital and, in turn, cost
Group (IRSG) and published by the City of London Corporation,
of investment and the cost of government debt and spending;
the research considers the EC’s proposal for an FTT and its possible
n There would be an uneven effect across participating and
impact on corporate and sovereign debt. As well as undertaking
non-participating Member States, corporate and sovereign issuers
a quantitative and qualitative assessment of the impacts, the
and short and long term securities.
study also looks at the effects of an FTT on the repo market and forecasts a reduction in activity leading to an impact on the
Qualitative assessment of impacts
real economy.
From a qualitative perspective, the findings include: n The FTT may result in behavioural change amongst market
The EC has proposed a broad coverage of products that
participants or lead to problems with collection which might
will be liable to the FTT. This includes all financial markets
imply fewer revenues being collected; an uneven incidence of
and transactions, as well as any close substitutes. Hence,
the FTT; and an impact on end-users of capital such as holders of
both transactions on regulated markets and over-the-counter
retail mortgages.
transactions will trigger the taxation. The research also details what the impact might be on the repo Quantification of impacts
market. One stakeholder suggested that the average fee for
Among its conclusions, the paper finds that the quantitative
a repurchase agreement was in the order of 5bps. A minimum
estimates of an FTT could include:
FTT of 10bps on each counterparty to a transaction may well
n With intermediaries in debt security transactions not exempt
therefore result in a substantial reduction in activity in the repo
from the tax, the sale and purchase of a debt security would be
market. The consequential reduction in repo market activity may
charged at multiple stages of the chain of settlement. This would
then have impacts on the real economy, as the likes of banks
create a cascade effect that would put the effective tax rate
use repo markets for short–term funding that may relate to the
in the order of 100 basis points (bps) (or 1%) rather than 10bps,
amount they lend to the real economy.
reducing activity in the debt securities market;
13 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Community and Corporate Responsibility
14 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Community and Corporate Responsibility
Green Spaces: The Benefits for London July 2013 Topical Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
London is highlighted as Europe’s greenest major city in Green
The reviewed evidence indicates that the environmental benefits
Spaces: The Benefits for London. This report, commissioned by the
appear strongest, with health-related, social and economic
City of London Corporation and prepared by BOP Consulting,
benefits seemingly dependent upon the underlying physical
highlights that with 35,000 acres of public parks, woodlands and
characteristics and environmental benefits of green spaces.
gardens, nearly 40% of the capital’s surface area is made up of
Green spaces in London provide a hugely important service
publicly accessible green space. The benefits from green spaces to
for the capital’s residents, workers and visitors – and as one of
residents, workers and visitors in London, range from environmental,
the largest owners of green spaces assets in London, the City of
to physical and mental health and well-being, as well as social and
London Corporation plays a key role in contributing to this service.
economic benefits. More research needed Given the increasing urbanisation of the world’s population,
The literature review undertaken for this report also identifies
the role of green spaces within cities is an often overlooked
several potential benefits of green spaces which to date have
component of the challenge of creating sustainable infrastructure
received little attention from the academic world.
for the world’s mega-cities. This report sets out to answer the question ‘What have green spaces ever done for London?’.
n Small spaces
The benefits can be broadly categorised in four areas:
While many studies may reference both smaller and larger green spaces, there is no research specifically into the benefits
n Environmental benefits
derived by small, inner-city green spaces;
These include cooler air through shade and ground cover with
n Economic impact
less heat retention; less rainwater run-off through water infiltration,
Little academic attention has been paid to the benefits of green
storage and pollutant removal; improved air quality through
spaces in driving tourism;
pollutant absorption; climate change mitigation through carbon
n City comparisons
capture; better bio-diversity/eco-system health by providing
There are currently no comparative studies between cities, which
natural habitats;
look in particular at the provision of green spaces;
n Physical, mental health and well-being benefits
n Blue spaces
For example, lower obesity levels and better cardiovascular
One comparatively new field of research, which is growing out
and respiratory health through providing space for exercise;
of the study of green spaces, is the assessment of the benefits of
reduced stress, mental fatigue and attention deficit through the
‘blue spaces’ – rivers, lakes and ponds. Many of London’s green
aesthetic experience;
spaces also include water, not to mention the Thames – what
n Social benefits
benefits might these bring to London and its inhabitants?
Such as enhanced cognitive and motor skills, and improved socialisation capabilities for children via the provision of spaces for play and challenge. Green spaces also enable greater social cohesion by the provision of inclusive, free spaces for events, mingling and meeting; n Economic benefits These include cost savings for government related to environment and health expenditures; attracting businesses to locate; increasing property and land value for home owners; and helping to promote tourism by acting as a draw for visits.
15 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Community and Corporate Responsibility
Tree Diseases in London: The Economic, Social and Environmental Impact June 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
As London’s trees face a growing range of new and serious
Recommendations
threats from pests and diseases, this paper by Ian Keen Limited
To help combat these threats, the paper recommends:
on behalf of the City of London Corporation, explores the role that trees play in urban centres like London. With nearly 40% of
n Building resilience
London made up of green space, trees are a core component
London’s tree stock should avoid over reliance on one or two
of the green infrastructure, performing a number of key functions
species of trees. There needs to be a range of tree species to help
– whether improving air quality through the provision of oxygen
absorb the impact of novel pests and diseases and retain tree
and removal of carbon dioxide, or less tangible measures such as
cover. Alongside greater variety, there is a need to plant trees
the provision of shading and a reduction in urban temperatures.
that perform different functions to varying degrees, to ensure
The paper states that greater strategic planning and proactive
a diverse tree population contributing to air quality, carbon
management of London’s tree stock is needed to increase urban
sequestration, supporting of biodiversity, noise attenuation, and
resilience of the capital’s green infrastructure.
aesthetics.
London’s trees
n Effective and co-ordinated management
The bulk of London’s tree population is derived from plane (for
Effective resilience will only come through a co-ordinated
example, this makes up 14% of tree cover within the City of
effort on a large scale. The Greater London Authority’s Green
London alone), lime (9% within the City) and cherry species (8%
Grid for example, could be a role model for this if built in an
within the City). Plane is a particularly iconic tree, known in the
informed way. London boroughs could share information and
UK as the London plane. These three species have come to
data, pooling resources to combat threats. Policy and guidance
dominate because they tolerate the growing conditions and the
would need to be targeted to meet these objectives. Targets,
pruning regimes that are sometimes necessary to contain their
which are now typically centred on the number of trees and tree
size within an urban ecosystem such as London.
replacement, could be more focused on diversity both in terms of species and function. There would need to be monitoring of
London’s trees contribute significantly to the wellbeing benefits of
the number and proportion of tree species, together with the age
green space, such as:
structure, within the tree population.
n Air filtering;
The paper concludes that early action such as that instigated by
n Micro-climate regulation;
the City of London Corporation when confronted with massaria,
n Noise reduction;
the Forestry Commission’s containment of the Asian longhorn
n Rainwater interception;
beetle in Kent, ‘resilience thinking’ applied to tree stock, and
n Recreational and cultural values.
the sharing of information between boroughs, will be key in combatting the threats to London’s trees.
The threats to London’s trees In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in the number of pests and diseases in line with global trading in plants, timber products and other packaged commodities. Major new diseases in urban areas include oak processionary moth, ash dieback and massaria. These are in addition to long-standing threats such as Dutch elm disease, honey fungus and bacterial canker of horse chestnut.
16 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Community and Corporate Responsibility
The Economic, Social and Cultural Impact of the City Arts and Culture Cluster January 2013 Research Report Published in electronic and hard-copy format
With London home to one of the most diverse concentrations
World class culture
of high quality arts and culture organisations and activities in
The quality of the City’s arts and culture offer is also emphasised.
the UK, this report, prepared for the City of London Corporation
For example:
by BOP Consulting, explores the economic, social and cultural
n Of the Barbican’s and the City of London Festival’s (COLF)
contribution of the City arts and culture cluster to the City and
respective audiences, in each case 95% agreed that the
London more widely.
organisations offer high quality events; n 76% of the Barbican’s audience agree that the Barbican
Economic benefits
provides ‘ground breaking and innovative work’ which leaves
The economic impact of the City’s arts and culture cluster is
them intellectually (88%), artistically (89%), and emotionally (82%)
primarily driven by the value of the goods and services produced,
challenged;
as well as audience spending and the knock on effect of
n 69% of COLF visitors that are based elsewhere in the UK,
spending on suppliers and spending by staff. In 2011/12 the arts
agreed that the Festival made them more likely to return to the
and culture cluster generated £225m of GVA for the City of
City in the future.
London and supported more than 6,700 full-time equivalent jobs. The study concludes by emphasising that alongside Exhibition Social benefits
Road, the South Bank and the West End, the City is home to
The social impact is also highlighted, with the cluster providing
another world class arts and culture cluster for London. This
over 7,000 learning and outreach sessions for children and young
cluster is a key asset in bringing vibrancy and diversity to the
people, split between work with schools and outside of schools.
City, as well as enhancing and enriching the lives, well-being,
It is estimated that over 231,500 children participated in these
and life chances of its residents and workers, and residents of
sessions over the 2011-12 financial year. Volunteering sessions
neighbouring boroughs.
provided by the arts and culture cluster also helped volunteers gain valuable personal development while helping organisations stay in touch with their audiences, with over 1,000 volunteers in 2011-12 contributing almost 38,000 hours.
17 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Social Investment
18 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Social Investment
Growing the Social Investment Market: The Landscape and Economic Impact July 2013 Research Report Published in electronic and hard-copy format
This report, jointly commissioned by Big Lottery Fund, Big Society
The size of the social investment market
Capital, the City of London Corporation and Her Majesty’s
n A total of 29 SIFIs – led by four large social banks – were
Government, and authored by ICF GHK in association with BMG
identified as active social investors in 2011/12, with the
Research, assesses the size and characteristics of the UK social
three largest organisations accounting for 81% of total investment
investment market. In addition, the report presents the economic
(by value);
impact of the market for the first time, following a survey of 99
n Secured loans as a proportion of the total market value
social ventures located across the UK.
increased from 84% in 2010/11 to 90% in 2011/12 (£182m in total); n Unsecured lending reduced to just 5% of the market
The research finds that in the financial year from April 2011 to
(11% in 2010/11).
March 2012 the UK social investment market grew by almost a quarter to £202m, through 765 investments from 29 Social
The economic impact
Investment and Finance Intermediaries (SIFIs). These investments,
The research found that the gross economic impact of the
at a gross level, will result in the creation or safeguarding of
765 investments made by SIFIs in 2011/12 will return:
340 social ventures and nearly 7,000 new, full time jobs across the
n 340 social ventures;
UK, with a total contribution of £58m in Gross Value Added (GVA)
n 6,870 jobs;
to the national economy. However despite these positive
n £58m in annual Gross Value Added to the UK economy.
signs, the report finds that only half of the expressed funding demand from the recipients of social investment – social
The report demonstrates the economic value of the social
ventures – was met, illustrating a significant funding gap which
investment market, therefore contributing to the ‘business case’
will need to be addressed for the social investment market to
for social investment, in addition to the positive social impacts
reach its full potential.
it generates.
19 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Social Investment
The Role of Tax Incentives in Encouraging Social Investment March 2013 Research Report Published in electronic and hard-copy format
The introduction of a social investment tax relief provides an
Further questions the research asked include:
important signal to individual investors to engage in this market,
n How much capital for social investment could be raised?
concludes this report authored by Worthstone, with assistance
The forecast is for £165m over a three year period and
from Wragge & Co LLP, and commissioned by the City of
£480m over a five year period, though these estimates are
London Corporation and Big Society Capital. The social sector
deliberately conservative.
organisations (SSOs) which make up the social sector face a
n What are the likely impacts of developing this tax incentive?
shortage of high risk capital supply to finance their operations for
Such an incentive complements other policy levers operating
positive social impact. By using existing survey data to calculate
in this sector, including the investment readiness and incubator
the likely amount of capital that might be raised through such
programmes, initiatives to open up access to public service
a tax relief, the research finds that up to £480m of additional
markets, laws to embed social value in commissioning, and the
investment capital for the sector could be generated over
localism agenda.
a five year period. It stipulates however that the principles needed to underpin such a tax relief include: a tight definition
An important signal to investors
of eligibility; a focus on risk-bearing capital; and a focus on
The report concludes that a tax relief for social investors could
individuals as investors.
be a real ‘game changer’ in the longer term in attracting new, required capital into the sector, and providing a vital missing
By initially asking the question whether social sector organisations are worth investing in, the report finds that although social enterprises make up only 7% of the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) population, evidence suggests that they are filling a gap in market needs in terms of their service provision. In addition, the social sector as a whole provides over 5% of all jobs in the UK, which makes it a larger employer than the financial and insurance services industries. Once establishing there is a case for investing in SSOs, the report goes on to consider whether there exists an appetite for social investment. The analysis finds there is a potential appetite for social investment amongst high net worth individuals (individuals with £100,000+ of investable assets) who want their investment to reflect social and ethical values. A tax incentive has the power to be influential in encouraging these investors to actually make a commitment to social investment.
‘piece’ of the UK social investment market’s infrastructure.
20 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
International Markets
21 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 International Markets
From Local to Global: Building a Modern Financial Centre November 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
By identifying the key stages in the development of financial
n Opening up to foreign participants in the local market
centres this paper, by Bourse Consult for the City of London
As a country’s economy grows and businesses develop
Corporation, provides a practical foundation for growing cities
increasingly sophisticated financing requirements, foreign
looking to develop as financial centres. The paper identifies and
investors become interested in investing in the country, while
explores four phases of development. It goes on to consider the
domestic firms stretch the domestic capacity to provide the
key factors underpinning financial centres at each stage – the
capital they need;
business environment, financial market infrastructure, regulation,
n Becoming a regional centre
people, connectivity and critical mass.
In the next phase of development, financial centres adapt their services, regulation and infrastructure to make investment by
The development of financial centres is of great interest to
foreign investors easier. Consequently, the number of investors
policymakers and businesses around the globe. A well-functioning
confident in investing in the centre, increases. The wider base
financial sector, the paper highlights, is a vital component of a
of investors leads to deeper market liquidity, and the financial
country’s economic health. It helps fuel economic development
centre with the best expertise, connections and liquidity in the
and growth by enabling capital to be efficiently channelled
region becomes the natural ‘gateway’ for investment in other
into investment projects and by helping businesses to manage
countries in the region;
their risks. Factors for wholesale financial services such as the
n Becoming an international financial centre
importance of continued face-to- face contact; the need for
A further stage of development is for a centre to progress
specialist advisers; and access to a large pool of skilled staff,
from regional importance to being internationally or globally
support the effectiveness of clustering of wholesale financial
significant. An international financial centre is a hub where cross-
services in financial centres, which have become increasingly
border financial business with counterparties around the world
concentrated in recent decades.
can be conducted easily and efficiently.
Stages in the development of financial centres
No simple formula
Financial centres take time to evolve, and the paper identifies the
The paper concludes that there is no simple formula for building
different stages involved in this evolution. Not all centres follow the
a financial centre, as growth depends on a complex blend
same path or aim for the same end point, but these descriptions
of tangible and intangible factors. The tangible factors are
characterise the main common features of the process.
those which can be put in place by government and market participants: a credible legal and regulatory environment,
n Local financial centres
business-friendly regulations and good infrastructure. Without
As a financial centre grows in a developing economy, it initially
these, no financial centre will prosper. The intangible factors help
serves a largely domestic group of participants. Local institutional
to create a self-sustaining virtuous circle of financial firms, clients
and private investors purchase domestic securities, such as local
and people all wanting to be close to each other and settling on
government issued bonds, or shares and bonds issued by local
a particular place to do business together and include history,
firms. The domestic banking system services local retail and
location and reputation.
commercial clients;
22 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 International Markets
I nstitutional Investment in the UK from Emerging Markets December 2013 Special Interest Paper Published in electronic and hard-copy format
Commissioned by the City of London Corporation and produced
China
by Trusted Sources, this report sets out to examine the changing
China’s two main sovereign wealth funds – CIC and SAFE-IC –
patterns of institutional investment from emerging markets such
have access to a USD3.4 trillion FX reserve, investing in a broad
as Brazil, Russia, India and China (the BRICs) into developed
range of overseas assets, encompassing equities, fixed income
markets. The report highlights that these countries will become
and alternatives. The outlook for more Chinese money to be
increasingly important sources of investment capital as their rate
invested in developed markets is positive and is likely to be driven
of growth in outward institutional investment is likely to be faster
by factors including:
than in developed markets, given the relatively lower current
n Liberalisation of the capital account;
base in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and assets under
n Internationalisation of the renminbi;
management. Each of the BRIC economies’ overseas investment
n Strong demand for investment options from high net worth
is explored in detail.
individuals and the growing middle classes.
The World Bank estimates that emerging markets will hold more
India
than half of the global stocks of financial capital by 2030. As
Outward capital flows from India have been growing, although at
these economies grow, rising incomes will lead to growing
a slower rate than China’s. Reasons for this slower growth include;
pools of savings amongst their citizens and increased portfolios
n An on-going and significant current account deficit;
for institutional investors, such as pension funds and insurance
n Relatively high inflation;
companies. The study finds that although outward capital flows
n Limits on institutional outflows.
have been historically low from emerging markets, emerging
The demographic driver in India however could mean that if
market institutions – particularly corporates and government fund
reforms are implemented there will be significant potential for
managers – have increasingly been looking for ways to improve
growth in overseas institutional investment over the longer term.
investment returns and diversify risks by investing savings into foreign assets.
23 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 International Markets
Brazil
The UK’s reputation counts
Brazil has one of the most well-developed financial systems of
The report concludes by emphasising that the UK’s reputation
the emerging market economies, but regulations on outflows are
in terms of the range of financial services offered, depth of
still very cumbersome. However, the study finds that double-digit
technical expertise and ability of the local workforce, and its
local rates have steadily declined to near historical lows, meaning
stable and transparent regulation has resulted in strong growth
it has become harder for investment funds to meet performance
in institutional investment flows from emerging markets, and this
targets in low-risk sovereign bonds. At the same time, the country
trend looks set to continue.
has suffered a prolonged economic slowdown and stock market turbulence in the past 12-18 months. These factors have spurred domestic institutional investors to look elsewhere in order to diversify risk and ensure more stable returns. The scheduled launch of Brazil’s first four outward investment vehicles designed for local pension funds in Q1/14 and further regulatory easing will create opportunities for fund flows both into and out of the Brazilian capital market. Russia Russia has already seen significant domestic private wealth flowing into international investment vehicles as a result of its liberalised controls on capital outflows and currency convertibility. It has, though, been slower in developing its institutional investment sector, with the Russian market for vehicles mobilising domestic collective savings being rather underdeveloped. The existence of a regulatory framework for insurance and pension funds that provides for international diversification means that the conditions have already been created for steadily increasing portfolio investment outflows from Russia.
24 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
City of London Key Facts GVA and Employment Growth, 2010-2015 GVA (basic prices, %/year)
City of London
Greater London
Employment (%/year) City of London
Greater London
2010
1.5 1.4 1.5 0.4
2011
0.1 0.8 0.1 2.3
2012
1.1 1.0 1.1 3.0
2013
1.0 1.3 1.0 0.6
2014
3.1 2.8 3.1 1.1
2015
4.0 3.4 4.0 1.2
Source: Oxford Economics, 2013
Employment in Financial Services
2009 2010 2011 2012
City of London – total employment*
331,900
356,600
388,600
400,000
City of London – number of employees
321,200
345,100
374,100
383,600
Tower Hamlets – total employment*
208,900
212,100
237,700
240,400
Tower Hamlets – number of employees
204,400
208,500
233,000
235,900
City of London – employment in financial and insurance activities*
136,700
151,000
155,000
159,300
City of London – employment in professional, scientific and technical activities* 85,700
87,700
106,500
109,200
Tower Hamlets – employment in financial and insurance activities*
63,900
57,100
74,600
72,600
Tower Hamlets – employment in professional, scientific and technical activities* 22,100
22,200
24,000
25,800
323,300
333,800
357,900
360,000
1,057,800
1,025,500
1,051,900
1,045,500
Financial services and insurance employment in Greater London* Financial services and insurance employment in Great Britain*
Source: Office for National Statistics, Business Register and Employment Survey, October 2013 Note: Canary Wharf is situated in the London borough of Tower Hamlets * includes working owners, including sole traders and sole proprietors
25 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Projected Employment by Sector, 2012-2015 City of London
2013 2014 2015
Financial & insurance activities
156,400
157,500
157,900
Professional, scientific & technical activities
102,000
104,200
106,500
Administrative & support services
43,800
45,000
46,200
Real estate activities
5,600
5,700
5,900
Total employment
402,000
407,300
412,200
London 2013 2014 2015 Financial & insurance activities
360,900
362,700
362,800
Professional, scientific & technical activities
635,300
652,000
668,900
Administrative & support services
517,700
530,900
544,100
Real estate activities
94,000
96,400
98,800
Total employment
5,098,500
5,155,600
5,219,600
Source: Oxford Economics, 2013
City Businesses By employment size 0 - 4
5 - 9
10 - 19
20 - 49
50 - 99
100 - 249
250 +
Total
9,275 2,065 1,415 840 335 240 215 14,385
By key City sector Retail 295 Accommodation & food services
350
Information & communication
1,020
Finance & insurance
2,510
Property 745 Professional, scientific & technical
6,080
Business administration and support services
1,345
Arts, entertainment, recreation and other services Source: Office for National Statistics, Inter-Departmental Business Register, October 2013
590
26 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Research Periodicals The Economic Outlook for London RESEARCH PERIODICAL
April 2013 Research Periodical Published in electronic and hard-copy format
THE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK FOR LONDON
London is expected to remain at the forefront of the UK recovery
From an unemployment perspective, claimant count rate remains
given its concentration of high value added exporting service
below that of the UK, and in 2012 stood at 4.1%. The rate is likely to
sectors according to this study, prepared for the City of London
remain relatively flat until recruitment starts to pick up, eventually
Corporation by Oxford Economics. The research looks at London’s
dropping to 2.7% by 2020.
gross value added (GVA) data; forecasting 2.8% growth in 2014, and a further pick-up to 3.6% during 2015-20. In addition, the
Borough focus
study examines the prospects for the labour market in the capital,
The research also looks at GVA and employment figures for three
as well as the property market, with a further focus on the three
London boroughs:
boroughs of the City of London, Westminster and Tower Hamlets. n City of London Performance of the London economy in 2012 was average by
The City is forecast to see a weaker year for employment in
European standards, says the study, with the manufacturing
2013 after a strong performance in 2012, with total employment
centres of Munich and Stockholm outpacing it in terms of GDP
in the borough forecast to grow by only 0.8%. 2014 should see a
growth. Looking ahead to 2014/15 however, the situation is
return of business and investment confidence and employment
expected to improve with London likely to rank at the top of the
growth of 1.3%. An acceleration of GVA growth to 3.1% in 2014 is
table in terms of GDP growth.
also expected; n Westminster
London’s GVA growth
With the most diverse economy of the three boroughs,
Anticipating that the European debt crisis will be resolved by
Westminster delivered 2.3% growth in employment in 2012.
2014, London’s GVA growth is expected to grow from 1% in
A slowdown in 2013 is expected to reverse in 2014 with growth
2012, to 2.8% in 2014 and 3.4% in 2015. The financial and business
of 1.6% over 2015-20. GVA growth is expected to lag behind the
services sectors are expected to be at the forefront of that
City and Tower Hamlets over 2013-15. After that, performance
growth with 3.6% for 2014 and 4.4% for 2015. Public services are
is expected to match that of the City at an average of 4.1%
likely to be far more sluggish at -0.1% and 0.6% for 2014 and 2015
between 2016 and 2020;
respectively. Conversely, the information and communication
n Tower Hamlets
sectors are expected to achieve 4.8% and 5.3% GVA growth for
Heavily dominated by financial services, with Canary Wharf
2014 and 2015 respectively.
situated in the borough, Tower Hamlets has shown strong employment growth in 2012 (5.8%). Largely this has been as a
Growing labour market
result of financial services recruitment bouncing back after the
The study reports that strong recruitment in business services and
financial crash. The forecast for 2013-20 is much more moderate
the hospitality industry means that London’s total employment is
at 1.7% annually. GVA growth is also expected to outperform the
estimated to have grown by 3% in 2012, almost twice as fast as
City and Westminster, although outside Canary Wharf, much of
the UK’s rate of 1.65%. 2013 is expected to see only modest labour
the area continues to be well known for high unemployment rates
growth due to lacklustre GVA figures in 2012 but as spare labour
and economic deprivation.
capacity erodes away, employment growth in 2014 is forecast as 1.1%, then settling at a rate of 1.3% over 2015-20.
27 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
City News Monitor
This fortnightly service provides electronic links to information and news relating to the City, the national economy, the financial and professional services industries, and economic development research. Information provided as part of this service includes summaries of information available in the public domain and electronic links to publications produced by the City of London and/or third parties. To sign up to receive City News Monitor please email economic.research@cityoflondon.gov.uk or visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/researchsubscription
28 Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Research Initiatives The Social Investment Research Council The City of London has partnered with Big Lottery Fund, Big Society Capital, Citi and the Cabinet Office to launch the Social Investment Research Council, a coordinated initiative which sees these key research commissioning bodies consolidate their efforts in order to advance the UK social investment market. The aim of the Council is to generate powerful and practical insights for the benefit of social sector organisations and investors. Over the coming year the Council’s research programme will focus on improving the understanding of social investment market products, and the requirements of the investors needed to finance them.
Economic Research Blog The City of London economic research blog explores researchbased issues relevant to the City, its environment and its businesses and communities, as well as themes relating to London and the national economy. The blog is an opportunity for guest experts and specialist researchers to share opinions on issues of topical interest. Topics explored during 2013 have been as diverse as forecast employment growth, the proposed EU financial transactions tax, London’s aviation capacity and the use of tax incentives to support social enterprise investment.
Videos and Infographics This year alternative methods of presenting the City of London’s economic research data have included infographics, and short videos that provide a quick overview of the often complex topics explored in more depth in the full research reports. Visit the research blog and see our videos and infographics at http://colresearch.typepad.com
Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013
Contact Details Laura Davison Head of Research +44 (0) 20 7332 3610 Fiona Morrill Economic Research Officer +44 (0) 20 7332 3611 Catherine West Research Officer +44 (0) 20 7332 3321 Sabrina Basran Research Officer +44 (0) 20 7332 3626 Isabelle Almeida Marketing & Communications Manager +44 (0) 20 7332 3614 Sahsine Suleyman Marketing & Research Assistant +44 (0) 20 7332 3587
economic.research@cityoflondon.gov.uk
l
@CoLResearch
City of London Corporation
Economic Development Research Programme Review of 2013 Published January 2014
Š City of London PO Box 270, Guildhall London EC2P 2EJ
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/economicresearch