Archive for November 2023
Consumers planning a more positive but prudent Christmas
Planning to cut back on Christmas spending is now a seasonal norm, according to analysis of the Credit Union Consumer Sentiment survey for November. It contained a special question on consumers spending plans for Christmas, and compared it with spending intentions in the previous three years. Over half of consumers expect to have less to…
Read MoreOil prices head for fourth week of declines in a row as supply grows
Oil prices were little changed today but on track for their fourth week of losses in a row after tumbling about 5% to a four month-low yesterday on worries over global demand. Brent futures edged up seven cents, or 0.1%, to $77.49 a barrel in early trade. US West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) was at…
Read MoreMore expensive services, food drive euro zone inflation in October
More expensive services and food were the main drivers of consumer price growth in the euro zone in October, data showed today, as the EU’s statistics office confirmed year-on-year inflation slowed sharply. Eurostat said consumer inflation in the 20 countries using the euro decelerated to 2.9% year-on-year in October from 4.3% in September after prices…
Read MorePaid sick leave to increase to 5 days from January
The Government has announced that the entitlement to paid sick leave will increase from three to five days on 1 January 2024. It is the second stage of a four-year plan which will see employer-paid sick leave gradually rise to ten days in 2026. The move is designed to ensure that all employees get a…
Read MoreExports slow by 17% in September on lower pharma and electronics
Exports of goods from Ireland fell 17% in September, compared to the same month of last year, driven in large part by a further sizeable drop in sales of pharmaceutical related products and electronics. In total, goods valued at just under €16 billion were exported during the month, compared to €19.4 billion in September of…
Read MoreDublin property prices fall again in September – CSO
Residential property prices rose nationally in September, compared to the same month last year, by 1.4%. This compares to an annual rate of 1.1% in August, the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office show. The rate of price increases outside Dublin rose to an annual rate of 4%, compared to 3.4% in August. However,…
Read MoreCentral Bank publishes new accountability rules for financial companies
The Central Bank has today published regulations and guidance for firms who have to comply with the Individual Accountability Framework (IAF). This is a set of rules governing the conduct of employees and executives in financial companies. It follows a three month consultation process. Derville Rowland, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank said: “As regulators,…
Read MoreRevolutionising Profit Margins: Innovative Cost-Cutting Strategies for Businesses
In today’s competitive business landscape, know that maintaining healthy profit margins is more challenging than ever. However, with innovative cost-cutting strategies, businesses can revolutionise their profit margins, ensuring long-term sustainability and success. 1. Leverage Technology for EfficiencyThe first step towards cost-cutting is embracing technology. Automated software solutions can streamline operations, reduce manual errors, and save…
Read MoreMastering the Art of Client Retention: Key Strategies for Long-Term Success
In a world where attracting new customers is often more expensive than retaining existing ones, mastering the art of client retention is a critical strategy for long-term business success. At , we know that strong client retention not only boosts your bottom line but also creates brand ambassadors who will advocate for your business. Here…
Read More‘Out of home’ food sector hits record €9.3bn in 2023
A more discerning, occasion-led approach to dining out is likely to take hold next year, the latest Bord Bia annual Foodservice Market Insights report concludes. It comes against the backdrop of continued increases in consumer prices together with growing economic uncertainty, as well as a ‘rebalancing’ of consumer demand following a post-pandemic surge. Figures from…
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