David Aikman

David Aikman is an economist associated with the National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR), a prominent UK thinktank. He is newsworthy due to recent analyses published by NIESR concerning the economic repercussions of the Iran war on the United Kingdom. Specifically, NIESR, with Aikman's likely input, has warned that the ongoing conflict could lead to sustained high oil prices and inflation, forcing the government into "very difficult trade-offs" in its upcoming budget. The thinktank has also downgraded its UK growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027, estimating a potential £35 billion hit to the economy and an increased risk of recession this year. Aikman's current relevance lies in his contribution to these economic forecasts and warnings, highlighting the significant challenges facing the UK economy due to geopolitical events.