Posts by splash
Global unemployment set to remain steady, but quality of work remains a major concern
Global unemployment is expected to remain broadly unchanged through 2026, according to new analysis from the International Labour Organization. While this headline figure may appear reassuring, the organisation warns that apparent stability in labour markets is concealing deeper structural weaknesses, particularly around job quality, security and access to decent work. The ILO notes that the…
Read MoreBeyond the Bottom Line: How Financial Planning Shapes Long-Term Success
At KAAS we know for many business owners, success is measured by the bottom line. Profitability is, of course, essential, but focusing solely on short-term results can overlook what truly sustains a business over time. Long-term success requires more than healthy figures on a balance sheet. It depends on forward-thinking financial planning that aligns every…
Read MoreStamp prices set to rise in February as An Post responds to falling volumes
The cost of sending letters in Ireland is due to increase from early February, with An Post confirming higher prices for both domestic and international mail. From Tuesday 3 February, the price of a national stamp will rise by 20 cent, increasing from €1.65 to €1.85. This follows a previous increase of 25 cent introduced…
Read MoreConstruction activity continues to contract, though signs of stabilisation emerge
Activity across Ireland’s construction sector declined again in December, marking the eighth consecutive month of contraction, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index from AIB. The survey shows that output fell across all three areas covered, residential, commercial and civil engineering. The pace of decline eased in each category, with residential construction recording the mildest…
Read MoreNearly one in five workers expect to delay retirement until 70
A significant proportion of people in Ireland believe that retiring before later life is financially unrealistic, according to new research on retirement expectations. The latest Retirement Age Financial Feasibility Survey from Royal London Ireland shows that 18 percent of workers feel they will not be able to afford retirement until they reach the age of…
Read MoreReport highlights €8.3bn economic boost from stronger SME digital investment
A new economic assessment suggests that significantly increasing digital investment among Irish small and medium-sized enterprises could deliver a substantial boost to the wider economy. The research estimates that doubling the current average level of digital spend by SMEs has the potential to add €8.3 billion to Ireland’s economic output. The findings come from a…
Read MoreGold reaches record levels as political tensions drive demand for safe-haven assets
Gold prices surged to unprecedented levels today, reflecting heightened investor anxiety amid escalating geopolitical tensions and growing uncertainty around US monetary policy leadership. Spot gold climbed sharply, trading around $4,585 per ounce after briefly breaking above the $4,600 mark for the first time. US gold futures for February delivery also advanced strongly, signalling sustained demand…
Read MoreStamp prices set to rise as An Post responds to falling letter volumes
An Post has confirmed that the cost of sending letters will increase from Tuesday, 3 February, with changes affecting both domestic and international post. The price of a standard national stamp will rise by 20 cent, moving from €1.65 to €1.85. For international mail, a new €3.50 stamp will be introduced for letters sent anywhere…
Read MorePreparing for a Sale: Financial Housekeeping Steps Every Owner Should Take
At KAAS we know selling a business is one of the most significant milestones in an owner’s journey. Whether you are planning to sell soon or simply want to keep your options open, preparation is everything. The more organised and transparent your finances are, the more confidence you give potential buyers — and the better…
Read MoreFirst Home Scheme Supports Nearly 5,000 Purchases Since Launch
New figures from the latest quarterly update show that the First Home Scheme has played a significant role in helping buyers access newly built homes since its introduction in 2022. To date, 4,887 homes have been purchased or self-built with the support of the scheme, while more than 9,000 applications have received approval. Activity remained…
Read More