Archive for April 2024

New figures from the Central Bank show that average mortgage rates in Ireland rose to 4.29% in February from 4.27% in January. The euro zone average mortgage fell for the third month in a row to 3.91%. Today’s Central Bank figures show that Irish mortgage rates are currently the seventh highest in the euro zone,…

The World Trade Organization said today that global trade should rebound this year from an unexpected slump in 2023, but warned that regional conflicts, geopolitical tensions and economic policy uncertainty risked darkening the picture. In its annual trade forecast, the WTO disclosed that world trade volumes unexpectedly declined by 1.2% in 2023. That downgrade was…

In the entrepreneurial journey, building a venture that not only survives but thrives in the competitive market landscape is paramount. A pivotal element in this endeavour is enhancing the business valuation, a metric that reflects the company’s worth and attractiveness to investors, buyers, or partners. This article from KAAS explores essential strategies entrepreneurs can employ…

The Supreme Court has ruled that guidelines on personal injuries awards voted into force by Ireland’s judges three years ago are legally binding and remain in force. In what was a complex but historic decision in relation to personal injuries awards, a seven-judge court dismissed the bulk of issues raised in an appeal brought by…

Euro zone banks lowered the bar on mortgage approvals last quarter for the first time in over two years but demand for credit kept falling amid high borrowing costs and a stagnant economy, a European Central Bank survey showed today. The ECB has pushed interest rates to record highs to rein in inflation, bringing bank…

60% of people would turn down a job if it did not offer hybrid working, new data shows. The latest Cpl Salary Guide reveals that 66% of those surveyed currently avail of hybrid working. Almost 40% said that flexible and remote working provides a better work-life balance and increased job satisfaction. “We see from this…

In the complex tapestry of modern commerce, small businesses find themselves navigating through a maze of challenges and opportunities alike. Amidst this, KAAS know that financial benchmarking emerges as a lighthouse, guiding enterprises towards operational excellence and strategic growth. This article delves into the essence of financial benchmarking and unveils its pivotal role in sculpting…

Nearly three quarters of third level students who come from a family business background believe that the next CEO of the firm will be a family member, according to a study on succession carried out by Dublin City University in association with AIB. The study points to an unusually high level of affinity for involvement…

The State’s bad bank asked the Government to set up a ‘NAMA resolution unit’ because there was no way they could finalise all legal cases, insolvency, and property disposals before their official wind-up at the end of 2025. NAMA is due to be shut down at the end of next year but informed the Department…