The Consumer Editor at the Financial Times and host of their Money Clinic podcast, Claer Barrett has vast knowledge of finance and consumer issues. From economic overviews to personal finance, consumerism to digitalisation, she makes everything she covers accessible and relevant. She considers finance sociologically and explores how it intersects with global issues such as mental health and the gender gap.
View / Submit"Her obvious expertise, experience and, often very humorous, anecdotes added such value and really brought the subject matter to life."
Capita Group Plc
Consumer Editor at the Financial Times, Claer Barrett is an economic broadcaster and columnist. She presents the FT Money Clinic podcast, and covered business and finance news on Eddie Mair’s LBC drivetime show, making complex market issues relevant and accessible. She is also a regular on Lorraine, helping viewers with their money questions and concerns.
Prior to joining the Financial Times, Claer was the property correspondent for Investors Chronicle until she became managing editor of weekly industry magazine, Property Week. At the FT, she writes the weekly Serious Money column covering everything from saving money to the effects of Brexit on your holiday plans and hosts the Business Clinic videos. She is also a frequent commentator on radio and TV, talking about personal finance, consumer, and small business issues.
Her latest book What They Don't Teach You About Money: Habits to Get You Unstuck and on the Road to Financial Freedom, will look at seven habits that unlock financial independence.
In her talks, Claer examines everything from the impact of financial markets on business, investment, and property, to the more personal economic affairs such as inheritance tax, pensions, and wealth management. As a former retail correspondent, Claer also looks into how consumerism has changed, the future of the high street, and the digitalisation of real estate and the financial services sector.
In applying a more human and sociological take on finance, Claer analyses the intersection between debt, finances, and mental health in the workplace. She examines its relation to womenomics (women’s financial issues), as well as how companies should embrace new ways of working to retain and support Generation X and Z staff. In lighter moments, she also looks at some of the more unusual requests for investment advice she’s received from FT readers.
As well as keynote and after-dinner speeches, Clear is a skilled facilitator and host. She combines knowledge, enthusiasm, and humour to create a natural affinity with the audience and put panel members at ease.