The Department of Economics and Finance is engaged in research across three key areas. The 'Behavioural Economics Research Cluster' explores how psychological, emotional, and social factors – such as cognitive biases and heuristics – influence economic decisions, challenging the assumption of purely rational behaviour. This research informs the design of policies and interventions to enhance decision-making in various domains. The 'Financial Services Research Cluster' focuses on research in the financial services sector as well as in topics related to portfolio management and banking. A current research focus relates to applying behavioural principles to 'Behavioural Banking' that aim to better understand and influence customer behaviour in the financial sector. Finally, the department’s 'City-region Economies Cluster,' led by Prof Ivan Turok, investigates how demographic and economic shifts affect urban development in South Africa, focusing on enhancing city growth and inclusion through strategic assets and understanding spatial dynamics.

Click here for the three research clusters in the department