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Matthew Sparkes

Matthew Sparkes is an Assistant Professor in Sociology and a Director of Studies and Fellow in the Human, Social, and Political Sciences at Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge.

Matthew's research is centred on examining neoliberal political economy, its origins and associations with financialisation, and the class, gender and cultural dynamics of these processes. His work makes use of a variety of research methods, and cuts across social science scholarship in sociology, cultural studies, economics, politics, geography, and labour history.

Currently, Matthew's research interests lie in two main strands. The first strand focuses on the way politicians and the media utilise narratives to influence policy, particularly in moments of crises, and the consequences of these processes. The second, and more dominant, strand extends his enquires into social stratification processes within credit markets, and how they shape social inequalities.

Before entering academia, Matthew worked as a Debt Advisor for StepChange Debt Charity. He earned his PhD in Sociology and MA in Social Research at the University of York, and his BA in Sociology from Leeds Metropolitan University.

Mortgage prisoners: regulatory changes and low credit scores have left thousands trapped in a cycle of high payments

May 15, 2024 07:26 am UTC| Insights & Views Economy

There are 8.5 million households in the UK who own a home with a residential mortgage, often with fixed interest rates from two to five years. Usually, when that mortgage deal ends, the borrower will move to another deal...

Credit payment holidays reduced the mental health effects of debt during COVID – new research

May 23, 2023 15:09 pm UTC| Health

Like other countries, the UK implemented a number of initiatives to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on peoples economic circumstances. While we know these schemes supported household finances, now were...

Economy

China's Manufacturing Growth Slows: PMI Signals Caution Amid Economic Challenges

In December 2024, Chinas Caixin Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI)stoodat50.5. Thismeansthat the manufacturing sector is still growing for the third month in a row, but the growth is slower than expected....

Putin Drives Russia's Government and Top Bank to Strengthen AI Cooperation with China Amid Sanctions

President Vladimir Putin has tasked Russias government and Sberbank to bolster AI cooperation with China. This strategic move aims to counter the impact of Western sanctions that have hindered Moscows access to critical...

Russia's Gas Transit Halt Through Ukraine Signals Europe’s Break From Decades of Reliance

The transit of Russian gas through Ukraine officially stopped on New Years Day, ending decades of Moscows dominance in Europes energy markets. The halt follows Ukraines refusal to renew the deal, pushing Europe closer to...

Venezuela Tops 9% Economic Growth in 2024 with Hydrocarbons Boosting a Historic Recovery Year

Venezuela surpassed 9% economic growth in 2024, President Nicolas Maduro announced, crediting the hydrocarbons sector for its crucial role in driving recovery. The nation shows signs of progress as it tackles ongoing...

Xiaomi SU7 Debuts Striking New Color for 15th Anniversary as EV Demand Surges

Marking its 15th anniversary, Xiaomi introduces a striking new red color for the SU7 EV, launching January 1 for $1,230. Production ramps up as demand for the model grows in China. Xiaomi SU7 Gains Limited Edition Color...

Politics

Elon Musk Calls for Bold Action as Pressure Mounts on US to Demand UK Release Tommy Robinson

Billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk has sparked a heated global debate after supporting calls for the United States to ramp up economic and diplomatic pressure on the United Kingdom to secure the release of British activist...

Vegas Blast Claims Life, Injures Seven in Shocking New Year Tragedy

An explosion involving a Tesla Cybertruck rocked the entrance of the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas on New Years Day, killing one person and injuring at least seven others. Authorities have launched an intensive...

Biden’s Shocking Work-From-Home Deal Stirs National Debate Over Federal Jobs and Remote Work Policy

President Joe Biden has made headlines once again with a groundbreaking decision impacting over 42,000 federal workers. By signing a work-from-home deal, Biden effectively secures remote work arrangements for these...

Melania Trump’s Plea for Peace Sparks Emotional Reactions Amid Rising Violence Across the Nation

Former First Lady Melania Trump has broken her silence on the disturbing surge in violence gripping communities across the country. Taking to Twitter, Trump shared a heartfelt message expressing her deep concern for the...

How will Donald Trump manage trade disputes with European nations?

Donald Trumps second term begins with an audacious plan to tackle trade disputes with European nations, sparking controversy and debate on both sides of the Atlantic. Known for his America First policies, Trump aims to...

Science

Bill Gates’ Shocking New Malaria Solution Unveiled as Genetically Modified Mosquitoes Turn Into Flying Vaccinators

In a groundbreaking and controversial move, researchers funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation at Leiden University Medical Center have developed a revolutionary approach to combat malaria. The team has created...

Explosive CIA Whistleblower Claims Havana Syndrome Victims Face Cancer, Dementia, and Government Betrayal

A former CIA operative has come forward with alarming allegations, claiming that victims of the mysterious Havana Syndrome are now battling devastating health issues, including cancer, dementia, and Parkinsons disease. The...

FDA Approval of Opdivo Injection Sparks Hope for Cancer Patients with Revolutionary Treatment Update

In a significant advancement for cancer care, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an injectable version of Bristol Myers Squibbs blockbuster cancer drug Opdivo. Branded as Opdivo Qvantig, the new...

Public Health Experts Warn of ‘Quad-Demic’ as Flu, COVID, RSV, and Norovirus Threaten Winter Surge

Public health experts are raising alarms over a potential quad-demic this winter, with flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus all expected to surge simultaneously. This unprecedented convergence of...

Philippines' 'Missile Acquisition' Plan Provokes China's 'Arms Race' Warning

The Philippines has announced plans to acquire the U.S.-developed Typhon missile system to bolster its maritime defense capabilities. This decision has elicited strong reactions from China, which warns that such a move...

Technology

Elon Musk’s Game-Changing X TV Set to Launch in 2025 Sparks Global Frenzy

Elon Musks latest innovation, X TV, is poised to disrupt the streaming and broadcasting landscape in 2025. Officially announced this week, the revolutionary platform promises to merge traditional television with...

Elon Musk’s X Money Launch Set to Revolutionize Digital Payments and Dominate 2025’s Fintech World

In a groundbreaking move that could redefine financial technology, Elon Musks X platform is gearing up to unveil its much-anticipated payment system, X Money, in 2025. This ambitious venture promises to challenge the...

Tesla Secures $98.7 Million Land Deal for Giga Mexico to Boost Cybercab Manufacturing Potential

Tesla has purchased 1,194 hectares across four properties in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, for $98.7 million. The investment reflects Teslas strategy to enhance its manufacturing capabilities, with potential ties to its ambitious...

Apple Renames iPhone SE 4 to iPhone 16E with OLED Display, iPhone 14 Look, and Action Button Features

Apple is reportedly transforming the iPhone SE 4 into the iPhone 16E, featuring an OLED display, a refined iPhone 14-inspired design, and advanced functionalities like the Action Button, making it a standout option for...

Nvidia Seals $700 Million Runai Deal, Navigating Antitrust Scrutiny to Expand AI Ecosystem Dominance

Chipmaker Nvidia has finalized its $700 million acquisition of Israeli start-up Runai, overcoming regulatory scrutiny in the EU. The move cements Nvidias leadership in the AI graphics processing sector while promising...