In conversation with Michael Biggs

 

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Michael Biggs
Head of Macro Strategy
Gemma Cairns-Smith
Investment Specialist

What really drives the economic cycle? It’s not the total amount of debt – it’s the rate of change of new borrowing. Investment Specialist Gemma Cairns-Smith sits down with Ruffer’s Head of Macro Strategy Michael Biggs to explore his research into the credit impulse — the change in new borrowing that drives economic activity.

Mike explains why this signal is widely misunderstood, what it reveals about the UK’s shifting interest‑rate backdrop, and where the biggest opportunities and risks lie as credit conditions turn.


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Michael Biggs
Head of Macro Strategy
Gemma Cairns-Smith
Investment Specialist
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Piers Wheeler
Director – Institutional
Developing and executing asset management strategy for capital raising and strategic relationship management. Coverage includes EMEA, Asia and Australia. Piers joined Ruffer in 2021, having previously worked with asset management firms including Eastspring, AMP Capital and LEK as a strategic consultant. He holds a MA from the Bayes Business School and a BA (Hons) from the University of Oxford.
Annabel Paterson
Annabel Paterson
Senior Associate – Institutional
Joined Ruffer in 2021, having graduated with a first class honours degree in land economics from the University of Cambridge. After two years working with the UK Private Wealth team, she now supports Ruffer’s global business development and client servicing efforts. She is a CFA charterholder.

The views expressed in this article are not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any investment or financial instrument, including interests in any of Ruffer’s funds. The information contained in the article is fact based and does not constitute investment research, investment advice or a personal recommendation, and should not be used as the basis for any investment decision. References to specific securities are included for the purposes of illustration only and should not be construed as a recommendation to buy or sell these securities. This article does not take account of any potential investor’s investment objectives, particular needs or financial situation. This article reflects Ruffer’s opinions at the date of publication only, the opinions are subject to change without notice and Ruffer shall bear no responsibility for the opinions offered.

This financial communication is issued by Ruffer LLP which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK and is registered as an investment adviser with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training. © Ruffer LLP 2026. Registered in England with partnership No OC305288. 80 Victoria Street, London SW1E 5JL. For US institutional investors: securities offered through Ruffer LLC, Member FINRA. Ruffer LLC is doing business as Ruffer North America LLC in New York. Read the full disclaimer

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