Month: December 2025

Best Accountant for Crypto in UK: Built for Investors Tired of Spreadsheet Chaos

What Kind of Crypto Investor Are You? Pick the Right Accountant for UK Taxes

Crypto portfolios come in all shapes. Some hold a few coins for years. Others trade hourly. Then there are DeFi users mixing staking, swaps, and liquidity pools. Because each profile pays taxes differently, the choice of accountant matters. That’s where a specialist built for the crypto crowd, like Crypto Tax Made Easy, becomes a serious advantage when searching for the best accountant for crypto in uk.

Four Types of Crypto Investors, And What They Need

The Casual Holder, Small Wallet, Simple Gains

Casual holders buy tokens, wait months or years, then sell when prices climb. These investors may only need capital gains tax reporting when they sell. They benefit from a straightforward tax return and clean record of holdings. A crypto tax accountant helps track cost basis and sale dates to calculate gains accurately for a self assessment tax return.

The Frequent Trader, Many Trades, Many Wallets

Frequent traders shift coins between wallets, exchanges, tokens. Each move can trigger taxable events. Keeping track of cost basis, swaps, and disposals becomes tricky quickly. A specialist accountant brings value here. They reconcile every transaction, apply fair market value for each trade, and build comprehensive reporting, avoiding inflated tax liabilities from guesswork or incomplete records.

The DeFi Participant, Staking, Pools, and Extra Income Streams

DeFi activity adds complexity. Staking rewards, liquidity pool returns, airdrops, swaps, each item may carry separate tax implications under UK law. A crypto tax advisor familiar with digital asset taxation sees the difference. They calculate income tax where required. They classify capital gains when assets leave liquidity pools. They verify taxable events for every action.

The Business or Side‑Gig Operator, Crypto as Income or Payment

Some users run businesses or side ops that accept crypto as payment. It introduces accounting services broader than personal tax. Firms need to handle crypto income, bookkeeping, corporation tax (if relevant), and compliance under UK rules. A chartered accountant with experience in cryptocurrency accounting supports bookkeeping and tax reporting tailored to business activity.

Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All for Tax Accounting

Crypto activity isn’t uniform. Tax needs vary by volume, frequency, and transaction type. Traditional accountants offer standard services, income, dividends, property, but rarely cover crypto‑specific demands. Without expertise, mismatches in tax reporting can happen.

A leading crypto accountant UK knows crypto assets behave differently. They understand how swaps, chain bridges, and token rewards impact tax position. They know when capital gains or income tax applies. The expertise reduces mistakes and protects investors from avoidable tax liabilities or audit risk.

What Smart Crypto Tax Services Offer

  • Full transaction reconciliation across multiple wallets and exchanges
  • Accurate tracking of cost basis, buy dates, and sale or swap dates
  • Clear classification of income vs gains, especially for staking, airdrops, or DeFi rewards
  • Preparation of clean reports or summaries for self assessment tax return
  • Advisory service and tax planning for future trades or income streams

Firms like Crypto Tax Made Easy built systems to support all types of investors, from casual holders to active traders. Their staff treats every transaction as taxable unless proven otherwise. The kind of attention matters most for frequent traders or business‑based crypto users.

Match Your Style, Know What Questions to Ask

When choosing a crypto tax advisor, keep these in mind:

  • How many transactions can they handle without errors?
  • Do they support a variety of activities, trades, staking, pools, wallets, business payments?
  • Can they rebuild past years’ records if data is incomplete?
  • Do they provide clear cost‑basis tracking and documentation?
  • What’s their fee structure, flat, tiered, or per hour?

Your answers determine whether they suit a casual investor, active trader, DeFi enthusiast, or business user.

Why More UK Investors Are Moving to Crypto‑Focused Firms

Crypto activity in the UK keeps growing. Tax laws treat crypto as property or income depending on activity. People who hold coins, trade frequently, or run crypto‑based businesses face merging tax rules for capital gains, income tax, and accounting compliance. A crypto accounting firm understands all moving parts and helps investors keep control of their tax position, not the other way around.

Crypto Tax Made Easy remains a solid reference point for investors evaluating which firm fits their style. Their workflow works for different investor profiles. Their track record spans casual holders to high‑volume traders.

If a tax year includes more than a few trades, includes staking or DeFi activity, or involves crypto income, a crypto‑savvy accountant may be exactly the right move.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to report all my crypto transactions to calculate my tax position?

Yes, each crypto transaction, including swaps, sells, and spends, may create tax obligations and must be tracked for accurate reporting.

Can chartered tax advisers help with crypto tax liability?

Yes, qualified tax professionals with experience in crypto taxation provide guidance on tax obligations and help minimize crypto tax liability where possible.

How do I know if I need to pay capital gains tax on my crypto?

If you dispose of crypto assets at a gain, you’re typically subject to capital gains tax depending on the holding period and fair market value at the time of sale.

What kind of crypto assets tax assistance does Crypto Tax Made Easy provide?

The firm offers full-service crypto tax reports and advisory built around complex cryptocurrency transactions across wallets, chains, and software.

Should I use a crypto tax calculator or seek advice from a specialist?

Crypto tax calculators can help estimate totals, but investors with high transaction volumes should seek advice from crypto tax specialists for accurate reporting.

Are UK tax laws different when it comes to crypto income or inheritance tax?

Crypto Tax Made Easy does not currently claim expertise in UK tax laws or inheritance tax matters, so UK investors should consult a local specialist.

Why do leading crypto tax accountants focus on tax advice for crypto assets?

Because crypto is subject to capital gains and income tax rules, leading crypto tax professionals focus on helping clients understand and meet tax obligations with clarity.

How Tech Is Becoming A Prominent Team Member For Legal Teams

In the legal industry, time is everything. And it seems the days of teams spending long hours handling paperwork and manual processes are long gone. As businesses embrace digital technology and become more data-driven, legal teams are under increasing pressure to manage information faster and more effectively. Technology helps fill this gap, becoming an increasingly valuable support and, for many firms, a valued member of the team.

Saving time and money for greater efficiency

The role of a legal team goes beyond providing legal advice. For many businesses, legal departments help form business strategy, in addition to supporting governance and managing risk. Combined with a changing work environment, legal teams need tools that will allow them to work more efficiently, track decisions and access information quickly. While they may not have moved as swiftly as others, legal firms and teams are finally realising the benefits technology can bring.

The impact of technology

Modern legal technology can help with many day-to-day activities. From contract management to compliance tools, teams can process information faster than ever, using collaboration tools to improve visibility across different departments and avoid delays. 

Using AI and automation software, teams can save time on repetitive administrative tasks, allowing legal professionals to focus on higher-value work. With 80% of Irish SMBs set to adopt AI within the year, it seems legal teams are embracing a broader shift towards more effective ways of working, where technology supports decision-making rather than simply taking over traditional human roles. 

Using eDiscovery to benefit in-house teams

One of the most beneficial areas of technology for legal teams is eDiscovery for in-house corporate teams. While discovery may have been previously outsourced, this technology helps teams collect, search and review information to produce reports faster than ever before. For in-house teams, this helps provide greater security over data while boosting response times to keep costs low and maintain compliance. Strict data management is crucial for businesses and organisations, and keeping this information in-house can help remove additional layers of risk.

What’s next?

Legal technology will continue to evolve, becoming a valued team member that supports and enhances the work of firms and in-house teams. By focusing on better integration and tools that solve many common legal challenges, tech can become a partner to allow teams to stay agile. Firms must find ways to introduce this technology and embrace it, keeping up the pace with other business areas like marketing, research and accounting. 

Technology is no longer just a future consideration for legal teams; it can help shape day-to-day operations and save money and time. Efficiency is key for businesses, and the tools available now, alongside those that may be introduced in the future, can help teams work faster and smarter – saving time and money. Teams that put this technology to good use can discover the opportunities available, enhancing legal expertise and freeing up time to focus on the areas that bring value to the business instead. 

UMEVO Note Plus – Magnetic AI Voice Recorder Review

The UMEVO Note Plus – Magnetic AI Voice Recorder is a handy new kit to  have at your disposal which can save you time and effort and the thing here is its size which is remarkable and literally the size of a credit card which uses ChatGPT and complies with GDPR.

This is also not constrained to a single OS use and works with Android iOS, Windows and Linux making it more flexible than others out there on the market.

You will need to download and app called AI DVR App to use it on your smartphone which is how we tested it out and it works rather well after time and occasionly like all other offerings picks things up wrong but for the most it works and what is also great here is the support for up to 140 languages.

The device itself is also well made and looks premium too and can attach to the back your smartphone with MagSafe or you can use the ring provided in the box so here again a win for non Magsafe devices.

The UMEVO NOte Plus gives real-time transcription, simultaneous interpretation, conversation translation, and smart audio editing—bringing professional-grade language processing to your fingertips.

There is a tiny display up top and one button so no messing around here either and it is simple to use as you will see in the full video review down below.

This is an ideal tool for workplace professionals, medical professionals, legal workers, journalists, teachers, students, sales representatives, content creators, and 100+ other professions and certainly has started to make life easier for me over the last while and it is also not expensive either.

The AI DVR App

Features

 

  • Free unlimited transcription: Enjoy free unlimited transcription minutes in your first year with no restrictions (Year 2 onward: see the FAQ at the bottom of this page)
  • New features: Real-time transcription, simultaneous interpretation, conversation translation, and smart audio editing—bringing professional-grade language processing to your fingertips
  • Powered by AI: Advanced AI transcription and summarization developed with ChatGPT and more—featuring multiple professional templates for various use cases and support for 140 transcription languages, with built-in translation functionality
  • Dual-mode recording: One-press meetings and calls capture
  • Storage & Battery Specs: 64GB storage, 40-hour continuous recording, 60 days standby
  • Data security: SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and EN 18031 compliant
  • Device compatibility: Apple, Samsung, Google, Xiaomi, Motorola, OPPO, OnePlus, TCL, Honor, and other major brands
  • Perfectly suited for: workplace professionals, medical professionals, legal workers, journalists, teachers, students, sales representatives, content creators, and 100+ other professions

BUY

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Video Review

Residential Proxy Authentication Methods

Residential proxies continue to grow in popularity among businesses, researchers, and developers who want to conceal their geographic locations, harvest geographical content digitally, and collect data from websites without detection. However, using a residential proxy involves more than simply utilizing an IP address that conceals your true IP address.

Most importantly, authentication ensures that only authorized users have access to proxy networks. Misconfigured authentication may result in exposure of login credentials, blocked IP addresses, or use of your proxy by unauthorized parties. In this article, we discuss several major methods of authenticating residential proxies, compare the various approaches, and provide guidance on best practices for implementing them.

Why Authentication Matters

Many times, shared or rented infrastructure underpins residential proxies. Without stringent authentication systems:

 

➔ Unapproved users may access the proxy pool, which might result in abuse or exploitation, including spam, scraping, and suspect traffic.

 

➔ Credentials might expose your proxy identity to other people, thereby risking blocks or banishment.

 

➔ Overuse or abuse of intellectual properties can harm their reputation and lower the success rates for all consumers.

 

Appropriate authentication guarantees only authorized clients’ access, thereby preserving IP integrity and steady, dependable performance for genuine users.

The Main Methods at a Glance

Most modern residential proxy providers support two primary authentication methods:

 

➔ Username/Password Authentication

➔ IP Allowlisting (also called IP Whitelisting or IP Authorization)

 

These methods differ in flexibility, security, and suitability depending on your working environment.

Username/Password Authentication

Basically, what this means is that you have to enter your credentials every time you connect using the proxy. When connecting to an HTTP(S) Proxy, HTTP Basic Authentication is typically sent over the HTTP headers every time you connect to the proxy. Authentication for SOCKS5 proxy occurs as part of the initial connection setup, known as the handshake.

 

A common format looks like:

http://username:password@proxy.host:port

Pros And Cons

Pros:

➔ Works from any network or dynamic IP.

➔ Easy to integrate into scripts, applications, and browsers.

Cons:

➔ Credentials must be stored securely.

➔ Logs, URLs, or debugging tools can expose usernames or passwords if not handled properly.

IP Allowlisting

IP allowlisting allows your authentication through verification of the public IP address that was created when you set up your proxy. As long as all requests are coming from an Approved IP address, authentication occurs automatically without the need for a username/password.

To create this approval, simply log into your proxy provider and add your home/office/server’s IP address. Once this is completed, any request from the Approved IP will be recognized by the provider as legitimate.

Pros And Cons

Pros:

➔ No credentials to control or leak

➔ Requests are cleaner because no authentication headers are required.

➔ Ideal for static IP settings that are stable.

Cons:

➔ Not ideal for mobile, hotel, or dynamic IPs.

➔ Any modification to your IP requires you to refresh the allowlist so as to connect.

Choosing the Right Method

Your work processes and the network environment in which you work will dictate the most effective authentication method. If you work in a location that does not change (a home server, an office network, or hosting in a data center) and use static IP addresses, then IP allowlisting is a very simple and secure way to authenticate users.

However, if you are constantly on different networks or are traveling or using a dynamic IP address, then using a combination of username/password is a much more flexible way to authenticate users. How you will determine which one of these methods is best for your system will depend on:

 

➔ Your network’s reliability

➔ How you use your system

➔ How much risk are you willing to take on

 

In addition to that, some providers allow you to switch between auth types as your project grows. To decide which authentication method suits your setup best, it’s ideal to contact a reliable and trusted service provider. If you are not familiar with a service provider, you can start by visiting here.

Implementation Snippets

Here are a few simple examples illustrating how both authentication methods work in practice.

Username/Password (HTTP Proxy via cURL):

curl -x http://username:password@proxy.host:port https://api.ipify.org

IP Allowlisted Proxy (No Credentials Needed):

curl -x http://proxy.host:port https://api.ipify.org

SOCKS5 With Username/Password:

curl –socks5 username:password@proxy.host:port https://api.ipify.org

SOCKS5 With IP Allowlisting:

curl –socks5 proxy.host: port https://api.ipify.org

 Always verify your configuration by querying an IP-check service. If the response matches the proxy’s IP, your authentication is properly configured and working.

Conclusion

To maintain both security and reliability, residential proxies must support authentication. Depending on the configuration of your network, your decision on which type of authentication to use (username/password or IP allowlisting) will depend solely on your specifications. Once configured correctly, residential proxies will operate securely and with maximum efficiency.

 

 

Esri launches interactive map of festive events in Ireland

Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has announced the launch of a digital map of fun-filled events happening around Ireland this festive season.

The interactive, easy-to-use StoryMap will help yuletide revellers to navigate what’s on across the island of Ireland this Christmas. From markets and festivals to light shows and ice-skating, there is something to suit all ages and interests.

The festive map includes a Web App enabling the public to search for events by county and location, to make planning your festive adventures even easier.

Esri Ireland specialises in the application of geographic information systems, helping customers record where things happen and analyse why, with the aim of providing insight and helping them to make better decisions.

As Esri’s official point of presence in Ireland and Northern Ireland it has, since 2002, partnered with both the public and private sector to help them understand the impact of geography on their business.

Recognised as one of the Best Workplaces in Ireland, Esri Ireland is part of the Esri Global Network, a billion-dollar privately held software company with nearly 10,000 employees worldwide. www.esri-ireland.ie

Researchers Use AI to Create Optimized Engine Components That Outperform Human Designs

The gerotor tooth profile is crucial for determining hydraulic system performance in automotive engineering. In a new development, researchers from Pusan National University have leveraged conditional generative adversarial networks for machine learning-driven gerotor profile synthesis and optimization. The novel approach has remarkably produced designs that outperform human efforts and lead to 32% more efficient hydraulic pumps, potentially revolutionizing the automotive industry.

Gerotor pumps for oil circulation and lubrication are crucial components in automotive and hydraulic systems. They possess a compact design, excellent flow rate per rotation, and high suction capability. The gerotor tooth profile plays a significant role in determining the overall performance of hydraulic systems for engine lubrication and automatic transmission. Unfortunately, conventional design methods leverage predefined mathematical curves and iterative adjustments, which compromises their optimization flexibility.

In an innovative breakthrough, a team of researchers from the School of Mechanical Engineering at Pusan National University, led by Professor Chul Kim, has proposed a new design methodology. Their findings were made available online on 10 October 2025 and have been published in Volume 162, Part D of the journal Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence on 24 December 2025.

The key point of this study is the use of AI, specifically, a conditional generative adversarial network, as a design tool. Instead of relying on the traditional approach of using predefined mathematical curves, the researchers trained an AI to automatically generate new gerotor profiles. The AI learned from a dataset linking specific, high-performance profile geometries to their actual performance data. This innovation allowed it to understand why certain shapes perform better than others, and then generate new, highly-optimized geometries that substantially outperform traditional designs.

The team demonstrated that their novel AI-generated design exhibits substantial performance gains in simulation validation via computational fluid dynamics. Compared to a traditional ovoid profile, the proposed design achieved a 74.7% reduction in flow irregularity. This means the pump’s output is significantly more stable and consistent. It also shows a 32.3% increase in average flow rate, which indicates better volumetric efficiency, as well as a 53.6% reduction in outlet pressure fluctuation, which directly contributes to quieter operation and reduced vibration.

The most direct real-life applications of the present work are in the automotive industry. The reduction in pressure fluctuation and flow irregularity is highly beneficial here. It can lead to transmission systems that operate more quietly and could potentially improve component reliability by reducing vibration and unstable hydraulic stress. Furthermore, the 32.3% increase in average flow rate allows for more efficient oil circulation throughout the engine. This contributes to better lubrication and cooling of engine components, which is critical for engine durability.

Prof. Kim remarks: “The same principles demonstrated in our study are applicable to various hydraulic pumps used in industrial machinery, where efficiency, low noise, and reliability are important factors, making our technology highly lucrative for real-life adoption.”

In the next 5 to 10 years, methods like this could become a standard tool for engineers. It represents a move toward “inverse design,” where an engineer can specify the desired performance targets, such as “minimize pressure fluctuation,” and the AI assists in generating an optimal geometry to meet those targets. Moreover, this approach can speed up the research and development cycle for complex mechanical components. It allows for the exploration of a much wider design space than is possible through traditional manual iteration.

“Crucially, for the public, the adoption of more optimal components can mean the machines we use daily become quieter and more reliable. In the automotive sector, this translates to vehicles with more efficient and durable hydraulic systems like transmissions and oil pumps,” concludes Prof. Kim.

Reference

Title of original paper: Machine learning-driven gerotor profile synthesis and optimization using Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks

Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

DOI: 10.1016/j.engappai.2025.112604

Image credit: Chul Kim from Pusan National University

Maono PD200W wireless dynamic microphone review

The Maono PD200W stands out as one of the most versatile and budget-friendly microphones available for creators, streamers, and podcasters. By successfully merging a professional-grade dynamic capsule with 2.4 GHz wireless functionality, it delivers exceptional flexibility without compromising on audio quality or features.

The “Hybrid” moniker is well-earned, as the PD200W offers a trifecta of connectivity options, ensuring it fits into nearly any recording setup:

  1. 2.4 GHz Wireless: This is the headline feature. The mic operates wirelessly via a small receiver that plugs into your device (PC, phone, camera) via USB-C or a 3.5mm jack (depending on the receiver version). This allows for up to 60 meters of range and is perfect for on-the-go interviews, vlogging, and clean desktop setups.
  2. USB-C Digital: A simple plug-and-play connection to a PC, laptop, or phone, delivering high-resolution 24-bit/48kHz digital audio. This is ideal for streaming and studio work.
  3. XLR Analog: For professional setups, the XLR output allows connection to a mixer or audio interface, offering robust analog performance.

 

Audio Quality and Noise Suppression

The PD200W is designed to capture clear, focused vocals, a hallmark of dynamic microphones.

The 30mm dynamic capsule delivers a clean, intimate sound with strong vocal clarity. It excels at close-miking, which is essential for podcasting and streaming. Due to its cardioid polar pattern and dynamic design, the mic is naturally excellent at rejecting off-axis sound (like room echoes or background traffic). A major advantage is the built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) noise reduction, offering multiple levels (Weak, Medium, Strong). Reviewers have found this feature highly effective, keeping the focus locked onto the voice even in challenging real-world environments with noise like heaters or buzzing insects.

The Maono PD200W includes several features that make it a favorite for content creators:

With a claimed battery life of up to 60 hours (and around 38 hours with the RGB lighting active), it’s built for extended wireless sessions or long-duration remote recordings.

The companion software for Windows and Mac allows users to fine-tune their sound with an equalizer (EQ), compressor, and limiter—tools typically found in higher-end setups. It also includes the controls for the multi-level noise reduction. See app screenshots below and video review for more.

The microphone features 16.8 million colors of RGB lighting, which can be controlled via the software, appealing directly to gamers and streamers who want a visually engaging setup.

It supports connecting two PD200W microphones to a single receiver (2TX + 1RX), which is excellent for dual-host podcasts or interviews, recording each speaker on a separate channel for easier post-production.

The Maono PD200W is a near-perfect hybrid microphone for content creators on a budget who prioritize flexibility.

Overall, the Maono PD200W is highly recommended for streamers, remote workers, YouTubers, and podcasters who need a reliable, clean-sounding microphone that can adapt instantly between a fixed desktop setup and a mobile, cable-free recording scenario. It delivers studio-grade clarity without the studio price tag.

Maono App

 

 

Key Features 

  1. Triple-mode connectivity (2.4GHz wireless transmission, USB, and XLR) offering true plug-and-play convenience and freeing creators from the limitations of traditional wired microphones, while providing more versatile connection options than conventional dual-mode mics.
  2. Dual-channel stereo recording – a single receiver connects to two PD200W microphones simultaneously, capturing each signal separately on the left and right channels. This enables independent volume adjustment for each speaker in post-production and eliminates track-mixing issues in multi-person podcasts or interviews.
  3. Studio-grade sound quality – a major upgrade over ordinary microphones, with clarity that rivals the Shure MV7+.
    1. 48kHz/24-bit sampling for authentic, high-resolution sound
    2. 82dB signal-to-noise ratio for ultra-quiet recording with no unwanted noise
    3. 128dB max SPL for distortion-free performance even at high volumes
  4. Direct connection to smartphones, tablets, and cameras – going beyond traditional USB microphones by supporting mobile devices, allowing creators to start from entry-level gear, switch seamlessly across platforms, and reduce time spent on post-production.
  5. Multi-level noise reduction – minimizing environmental background sounds and room acoustics, delivering cleaner and more focused audio without the need for heavy post-processing.

Competitors

VS Shure MV7+

    1. Comparable sound quality to the MV7+, delivering a professional-grade listening experience.
    2. Unlike the wired-only setup of traditional multi-person podcasting, PD200W’s wireless mode offers a cleaner and more convenient solution.

VS Fifine K688 / AM8

    1. Compared to both the K688 and AM8, PD200W delivers more professional sound quality tailored for podcasting.
    2. Unlike these models, PD200W supports direct USB connections to smartphones and tablets, providing broader device compatibility and greater flexibility for creators.

Prices

PD200W (Desktop Stand Version): $99.99

PD200W (with BA37 Boom Arm): $129.99

PD200W (2TX+1RX with Desktop Stand): $189.99

BUY

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Video Review

Quest Software Opens New Centre for Advanced AI Architecture in Ireland

Quest Software, a global leader in data management, cybersecurity, and platform modernization, today announced the opening of its new Centre for Advanced AI Architecture. The opening is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. To learn more, visit quest.com.

AI adoption is increasing across every sector, and organizations need stronger foundations in data, security, and modern platforms. The new centre will play a central role in meeting these needs through applied research and development, and engineering work, to deliver market-leading and first-of-a-kind innovations that will help drive customer success and Quest growth.

The centre expands Quest’s global AI initiative and strengthens the company’s focus on helping customers succeed in the AI era. This includes a $350 million capital infusion announced earlier this year along with new executive leadership to support Quest’s growth. The planned investment in the Cork Centre for Advanced AI Architecture is a key part of that initiative and supports the company’s strategy across three key areas: trusted AI-ready data, AI-powered cybersecurity, and platform modernization to scale with AI demands. The centre will serve as a hub for applied research and development. Teams in Cork will work across AI engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and software development to advance these priorities and strengthen Quest’s market-leading products in these areas.

Michael McGrath, European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection said: “I am very pleased to join the team at Quest Software here in Cork to celebrate this significant investment in skills, talent, and jobs. The European Commission recognises the urgent need to expand Europe’s pool of AI expertise. That is why, a few months ago, we launched the AI Continent Action Plan — to train and attract more AI researchers and professionals, and to strengthen AI skills and literacy across our workforce.

The announcement aligns perfectly with that ambition. It strengthens Europe’s innovation capacity and is a strong endorsement of Cork and the wider Southwest region. It demonstrates the role Cork plays as a dynamic contributor to Europe’s digital future, and its importance for companies like Quest as they scale their European presence.”

Tim Page, CEO at Quest Software said: “This investment strengthens our growth and supports the work we are doing to advance our products for the AI era and help us deliver AI that customers can trust. By investing in technology and talent, and partnering with local universities and research institutions, we can help develop the next generation of AI and cybersecurity professionals.”

Peter Burke, TD, Minister for Enterprise Tourism and Employment said: “Quest Software’s decision to expand in Cork is a fantastic endorsement of Ireland’s reputation as a hub for innovation and talent. This investment will create high quality jobs and strengthen our technology ecosystem. The Government is committed to fostering an environment where companies like Quest can thrive, and to supporting long-term regional growth. The announcement is a clear signal of confidence in our workforce and enterprise strategy. I wish Quest Software every success in the future with the new Centre for Advanced AI Architecture.”

Dónal Travers, Executive Director, IDA Ireland said: “The opening by Quest Software of its Centre for Advanced AI Architecture, which is being announced, signifies the company’s vote of confidence in Ireland’s AI innovation environment. This project positions Quest at the forefront of Enterprise AI transformation, delivering technically differentiated solutions that offer global impact. I wish to congratulate the Quest team and assure them of IDA Ireland’s continued support and partnership.”

Quest’s investment and the creation of new roles will contribute to an economic impact in Cork and across Ireland. According to IDA Ireland, every 10 jobs created in IDA client companies support an additional eight jobs in the wider economy.

As part of its expansion plans with the new Centre for Advanced AI Architecture, Quest plans to collaborate with Irish universities to develop courses, training programs, and skills development opportunities focused on AI and cybersecurity for people interested in technology careers.

Ireland has become a leading location for AI research and skills. The country produces nearly 1,500 AI-related Masters graduates each year and has nearly doubled its PhD output in AI fields since 2019. Ireland was also the first country to develop an industry-driven nationwide Postgraduate Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence. This depth of talent and the active research environment were important factors in selecting Cork for the new centre.

Allianz x Spotify: This Christmas, Your Playlist Could Be Your Best Safety Feature

This Christmas, the soundtrack in your car could be shaping your driving more than you think. As millions take to the roads, Allianz is warning that fast-tempo music can subtly increase speed, stress and reaction times and is encouraging motorists to slow both the car and the beat.

To support safer journeys this year, Allianz is urging drivers to plan ahead, take their time and never drink and drive. As part of this, Allianz Ireland has partnered with Spotify on a new data-driven initiative that helps drivers manage their mindset behind the wheel, simply by adjusting the tempo of the music they listen to.

Building on this partnership, Allianz and Spotify have launched Seat Belters, an in-app experience that creates a personalised, lower-tempo playlist based on each user’s listening history. Using Spotify’s streaming intelligence, it identifies tracks in the 60–80 beat-per-minute (BPM) range to help promote a calmer mindset on the road – whether it’s the school run, inching through town for a bit of shopping, or the long drive home across the country for Christmas.

Studies show that music can have a direct influence on how we drive. Songs with a fast tempo (over 120 BPM) can subconsciously encourage drivers to speed up and change lanes much more often. In contrast, music that matches the average resting heart rate (around 60-80 BPM) is associated with calmer, more focused driving[1].

Behavioural Psychologist Dr. Becky Spelman offered insight into the science behind Seat Belters, and how the initiative can have real-world influence on driving behaviour: “As a psychologist, I’m always interested in the small, everyday inputs that shape how we feel and behave. Music is one of those influences that most of us overlook – we usually think of it as something enjoyable to have in the background, but the tempo and rhythm of what we listen to have a very real effect on the body.

“When we’re driving, these changes matter. A slight increase in heart rate or a feeling of urgency can lead to quicker reactions, more lane changes or a tendency to drive a little faster. These shifts are not usually conscious decisions; they are simply the body responding to stimulation. The research is very consistent in showing that high-tempo music makes us more reactive and more prone to quick decisions, which is not ideal when we are on the road and need calm, steady focus.”

A nationally representative survey commissioned by Allianz earlier this year found that over half of Irish adults believe music influences their driving style, with belief particularly strong among Gen Z, who are the demographic most likely to stream music while driving. Higher heart-rate variability, increased mental workload and erratic driving patterns have all been observed in response to faster music, making mindful playlist curation especially beneficial this Christmas.

Dr. Spelman explains; “This is why the Allianz Seat Belters initiative is so useful. It takes something that people already do every day – listening to music in the car – and turns it into a practical safety support. By selecting music in the range of sixty to eighty beats per minute based on your listening history, the playlist encourages the body to settle. This slower rhythm is much closer to the natural pace of a calm and regulated nervous system. When we’re in that state, our thinking becomes clearer, our decision making becomes steadier and we’re less likely to behave impulsively, making the roads a safer place for everyone this Christmas.

Allianz has also launched Dashboard Drumming, a social video activation pairing legendary drummer Stewart Copeland (The Police) with science content creator Big Manny. In a parked car, they use nothing but a dashboard and a drumbeat to demonstrate how changing tempo affects mindset, mood, and ultimately driving behaviour – making BPM instantly relatable and sharable. It’s a fun but powerful way to show how we respond to rhythm behind the wheel. Start Your Better Driving Soundtrack – to create your personalised Playlist, visit: https://www.allianz.ie/spotify or use the QR code below

Start Your Better Driving Soundtrack.

To create your personalised  Playlist, visit: https://open.spotify.com/site/allianz or use the QR code below