Tag: economic

An Post’s ‘UK Direct’ opens door to Britain for Irish SMEs

An Post has announced UK Direct, a groundbreaking new end-to-end parcel delivery and returns service which overcomes post-Brexit barriers to trade and unlocks Britain’s 69 million-strong consumer market for Irish SMEs.
UK Direct gives Irish SMEs a seamless route to the UK market through:
  • Innovative technology which bridges the trade gap and accelerates growth by overcoming the obstacles to sending parcels from Ireland to the UK post-Brexit
  • Pre-cleared UK customs and three-day e-commerce parcel delivery to the UK via Dublin Port
  • End-to-end tracking and an integrated customer-friendly returns service
As Irish small and medium-sized businesses continue to face complexity, cost and considerable delays when shipping to Britain, UK Direct provides seamless innovation to firms wishing to sell, ship and scale up into Britain’s 69 million-strong consumer market. Firms simply register to integrate with the new UK Direct service, a full turn-key solution including advance customs payments, 3-day delivery with end-to-end tracking.
Between customs charges and the exacting compliance demands of Brexit, selling into Britain has become increasingly difficult for Irish small and medium-sized firms. Despite all the red tape, however, Enterprise Ireland1 forecasts that 97% of Irish companies want to expand into new markets over the next 12 months and in their recent pilot programme for potential new exporters, circa two-thirds of participants prioritised the UK as their target market.
An Post worked closely with Irish SMEs to understand the full extent of their difficulties in trying to expand their trade with the UK. In designing the new service, and partnering with Royal Mail, An Post is providing SMEs with a bridge directly into the vast UK market, a seamless shopping experience for UK consumers, and a simple, secure system for returns and refunds.
Launching UK Direct, An Post CEO David McRedmond said:
“UK-Irish trade is central to Ireland’s economy. This new UK Direct solution reopens that market for businesses facing the challenges posed by Brexit. Ireland’s 400,000+ SMEs are the backbone of this economy, and in building new infrastructure for Ireland, An Post is opening doors to new trade with the UK through a full end-to-end service from one of Ireland’s most trusted companies.
UK Direct removes barriers to trade, providing Irish SMEs with access to over 69 million new customers. Instead of being tied up in the complexities of customs fees or other red tape, they can focus on huge growth opportunities and ensuring a top-quality retail experience for their new UK customers”, David added.
 
Welcoming the announcement, Kara Owen, British Ambassador to Ireland, added:
“I’m delighted to see this new service come to life through such strong cooperation between An Post and Royal Mail. Businesses on both sides of the Irish Sea want simple, dependable ways to reach their customers, and UK Direct delivers exactly that. What matters most is giving firms the confidence to trade and grow — and that comes from practical, workable solutions like this. By making everyday commerce easier, we are strengthening our 2€ billion a week trading relationship, the economic ties that sustain the UK–Ireland relationship and support to communities and customers across both our countries.”
 
Fiona Fitzsimons, CEO of contemporary Irish jewellery company, Betty and Biddy, said
“This UK Direct service is a total game-changer for us. We get enquiries from the UK all the time, but right now, trying to navigate initial customs charges and reliable delivery in the UK, never mind customer returns, is a total nightmare. An Post currently handles our national parcels, and this new UK service will help take our business to the next level, something we’ve been working towards for a long time.”
Simon McKeever, CEO of the Irish Exporters Association, commented:
“The Irish Exporters Association supports Irish businesses to expand their market into the UK. Today’s announcement marks a positive shift in how Ireland can do business with our nearest neighbour. There’s a massive market ready and waiting for quality Irish products, and it’s now within the grasp of Irish SMEs, thanks to this practical and highly innovative UK Direct service.”
As Ireland’s leading logistics expert, An Post’s new UK Direct solution is set to accelerate trade from Ireland into the UK, fuelling critical economic growth.
To learn more about UK Direct, businesses can email:  ukdirect@anpost.ie
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Northern Ireland’s No Casinos: Why the Law Still Doesn’t Allow Them

Northern Ireland remains one of the few regions in Europe without legal casinos, a position that has endured despite years of debate and international trends toward expanded gambling. New statistics show that gambling participation among adults is steadily declining, with just over half reporting any gambling activity in the past year, and the lottery accounting for the majority of play. In this environment, many residents are turning to online platforms instead, with some accessing options such as casino sites not on GamStop, which are licenced outside of the UK or Ireland, to play poker and other digital games. This combination of falling participation and the availability of online alternatives helps explain why the region’s casino ban continues to hold strong.

Outdated Legislation

Controversy focuses on the Northern Ireland gambling law, which started with the 1985 Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements Order. The law is criticized for being antiquated and has failed to keep abreast of how the gambling industry has evolved. The UK, in the meantime, enacted the Gambling Act 2005, providing a body of laws under which, legally, casinos can operate strictly in accordance with the rules. Northern Ireland has not made equivalent reforms.

As legislation has only had minor changes to be brought up-to-date, it is illegal for casinos to be operated in Northern Ireland, yet betting shops, bingo clubs, and gaming machines are present in other formats under licensing. Investors have been frustrated because they believe that casino resorts would facilitate more tourism, hospitality, and jobs.

Economic Arguments For and Against

Lawmakers who support legal casinos are convinced the industry would be a great economic windfall for Northern Ireland. Destinations such as Belfast or Derry could become resorts with new sources of revenue. Large-scale casino resorts could create hospitality, entertainment, and construction employment.

Opponents counter that the economic benefits are overstated. They point to the steady decline in overall gambling participation, questioning whether there would be enough demand to sustain casino venues. With fewer people gambling today than a decade ago, critics argue that casinos may not deliver the kind of economic boost their supporters claim.

Online Gambling Makes Casinos Obsolete

While land-based casinos remain prohibited, Internet gambling has been on the increase in Northern Ireland. Domestic punters have access to international websites carrying poker, slots, and sports wagering. The lack of local legislation renders it grey, and there are now calls for a more official approach to internet betting.

This reality has led some to state that the casino prohibition is symbolic as ever. If people can gamble freely on the internet from foreign operators, does not the absence of land-based casinos actually protect the public? Others assume that gambling on the internet makes the casinos irrelevant because the players just have a gigantic variety of games without needing to leave home.

Cultural and Religious Influence

Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage and past have also influenced gambling legislation. Religious organizations, especially Protestant groups, have long opposed casino gaming as morally evil. This opposition has led to policies that reflect this in the form of higher hurdles for reforms to overcome, as opposed to other areas of the UK.

Even today, campaigns by community groups and religious leaders persistently pressure politicians against opening casinos. Such cultural pressure ensures that the subject will not be addressed on economic or regulatory grounds alone.

An Unfavorable Trend Away from Gambling

Current data show that overall involvement in gambling in Northern Ireland has actually been going down. In 2010, approximately 80 percent of adults had confessed to gambling in the last year. By 2016, it had dropped to 67 percent and by 2024 to only 57 percent. The lottery remains the most common activity, with about one-third of adults still buying tickets, but other forms of gambling have dropped. These figures cut down on the argument for bringing the casinos in, as one of the primary motives for doing so has been public demand.

Looking Ahead

The question of Northern Ireland casinos remains on the table, and no sign of change is imminent in the near future. With gambling involvement already in a downturn and problem gambling still present, the government has seen no need to tackle the subject directly. Minor reforms, however, like addressing online gambling and offering enhanced protection for vulnerable players, have been prominent.

For the moment, then, Northern Ireland is alone in possessing no legal casinos, a curious contrast to the broader global liberalization of gambling. Whether that will continue into the longer term will depend upon how public opinion, cultural values, and the juggernaut forces of the digital age of gambling evolve.

 

eBay Celebrates 30 Years of Creating Economic Opportunity

eBay, Inc. a global commerce leader that connects millions of buyers and sellers around the world, today celebrates three decades of ecommerce success. Since its founding in 1995, eBay has shaped the way enthusiasts participate in the circular economy, empowering entrepreneurs and creating economic opportunity for millions.

“eBay’s 30th anniversary is an important milestone we share with our global community of buyers and sellers, who’ve been with us every step of the way,” said Jamie Iannone, Chief Executive Officer at eBay. “Looking ahead, we’ll continue to leverage innovation and AI to make eBay simpler and more trusted, while building a stronger marketplace for the decades to come.”

To mark its 30th anniversary milestone, eBay is hosting a series of special events in New York City to honour the buyers and sellers who have shaped its journey since 1995.

 

  • Celebration at Nasdaq: Today, eBay CEO Jamie Iannone and company executives will ring the opening bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite. The moment reflects eBay’s impact on global commerce and its continued innovation designed to better serve small businesses, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts around the world.
  • Immersive ‘95 Shop: Complementing the ceremony, eBay is launching an immersive retail experience – the ‘95 Shop – a tribute to the iconic trends and items from its founding year. The activation is where 90s nostalgia meets three decades of recommerce innovation. It features a “Greatest Hits” auction across Fashion, Collectibles, and Motors, a series of eBay Lives from leading sellers, and more immersive experiences. Located at 45 Grand St. in New York City, the shop will open on Sept. 4 for one day only.

AI-Powered Innovation At Scale

eBay’s global scale, category expertise, and unparalleled breadth of inventory enable the company to deliver personalized, scalable, and magical experiences for its customers worldwide.

By combining sought-after inventory in focus categories, such as Collectibles, Fashion, and Motors, with innovative tools and strategies, eBay continues to expand its role as a trusted marketplace for sellers and buyers. AI helps in this mission by enhancing discovery, trust, and engagement: to date, eBay has enabled more than 10 million sellers to generate well over 200 million listings with AI tools. Internally, AI-powered services help streamline workflows, unlock deeper insights, and foster creativity, ultimately allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities.

Beyond AI, eBay is reimagining ecommerce through innovations like eBay Live, a dynamic shopping experience that continues to scale with strong seller adoption and growing buyer engagement. Together, these initiatives drive eBay’s ability to build on its category strengths, technological capabilities, and community of sellers to shape the future of ecommerce.

From vintage collectibles and pre-loved fashion to one-of-a-kind treasures, eBay has built one of the most dynamic and trusted marketplaces in the world, enabling customers all over the world to buy and sell with ease. As the company looks to the future, it remains committed to building communities, harnessing new technologies and reinventing the future of ecommerce. For a timeline of eBay’s historical moments, visit Our History.

How LED Headlights Are Revolutionizing Car Lighting Technology

The automotive lighting industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with LED headlights leading the charge toward safer, more efficient driving experiences. Modern vehicles increasingly feature these advanced lighting systems, and for good reason. LED technology offers significant advantages over traditional halogen bulbs, making them an essential upgrade for drivers seeking enhanced performance and reliability.

The Clear Advantages of LED Technology

Superior Energy Efficiency

One of the most compelling benefits of LED headlights lies in their exceptional energy efficiency. LED headlights consume about 80% less energy than halogen lights, dramatically reducing the strain on your vehicle’s electrical system. This improved efficiency means your alternator doesn’t have to work as hard to generate power, which can extend battery life and potentially improve fuel economy.

For hybrid and electric vehicles, this energy savings becomes even more critical. For a battery-operated car, this reduced energy consumption means the strain on the power source is greatly decreased, and the driving range is increased. Traditional halogen bulbs waste most of their energy by converting it to heat rather than light, making them far less efficient than their LED counterparts.

Extended Lifespan and Reliability

LED headlights have a minimum of 20 times longer lifespan than their alternative halogen headlights. While halogen bulbs typically last between 500 to 1,000 hours, LED lights continue shining for up to 30,000 or more hours. This remarkable longevity translates to years of dependable service.

2000 hours lifespan means that it would need you to spend 60 years behind the wheel to burn out the LED lights. This extended durability reduces maintenance costs and eliminates the frequent headlight replacements that plague halogen bulb users.

Fiat 500 headlights image provided by ONLINECARPARTS.co.uk

Enhanced Brightness and Safety Performance

Improved Visibility

LED headlights provide significantly brighter illumination compared to traditional options. Unlike traditional halogen bulbs, which produce a yellowish light, LEDs emit a crisp, white light that closely resembles daylight. This enhanced visibility proves crucial for night driving safety, allowing drivers to spot road signs, obstacles, and pedestrians more effectively.

LED headlight bulbs are capable of emitting an extremely high level of brightness that is much brighter and the light is much more concentrated than other car headlight bulb technologies. The wider and farther range of visibility significantly increases driver safety levels, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

Instant Illumination

Unlike some competing technologies, LED headlights can be on/off instantly, while halogen lights take a moment to reach their brightness even at low beams. This instant response proves vital in emergency situations or when driving in changing light conditions, ensuring optimal visibility when you need it most.

As AUTODOC Blog notes, “Driving safety and comfort largely depend on the headlight brightness. Therefore, every car owner must monitor the condition of their car lights.” LED technology makes this monitoring easier while providing consistently superior performance.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Reduced Heat Generation

LED lights have unparalleled efficiency when it comes to producing less heat. Halogen bulbs tend to generate a lot of heat besides emitting light, which puts additional stress on your car’s battery. This reduced heat output makes LED headlights safer for both the vehicle’s electrical system and surrounding components.

Long-term Cost Effectiveness

While LED headlights require a higher initial investment, their extended lifespan and reduced maintenance needs make them cost-effective over time. This longer lifespan reduces the number of replacements and keeps maintenance costs low. The energy savings also contribute to overall vehicle efficiency.

Technical Considerations and Installation

Advanced Design Features

Modern LED headlight systems incorporate sophisticated cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal performance. ND LED bulbs can last for a long lifespan of over 50,000 hours thanks to features like dual copper heat pipes and high-speed cooling fans that ensure efficient heat dissipation.

Compatibility and Customization

LED technology offers unprecedented design flexibility. LEDs offer customization options to look more cool. You may change the design of the light and some other functions. This versatility allows manufacturers to create distinctive lighting signatures while maintaining functional excellence. 

The Road Ahead for LED Technology

Market Adoption

The automotive industry continues embracing LED technology at an accelerating pace. At Consumer Reports, 55 percent of the 2018 models we tested had LED headlights. Of the 2019 models we’ve tested, 86 percent had LEDs. This rapid adoption reflects both consumer demand and manufacturer recognition of LED advantages.

Safety Improvements

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported a total of 34,439 car accidents in its latest Traffic Safety Facts report, of which a staggering 51% to 67% occurred at night and during low light conditions. Enhanced lighting technology like LEDs plays a crucial role in addressing these safety concerns.

Making the Upgrade Decision

When considering LED headlight upgrades, drivers should evaluate their specific needs and driving conditions. LED headlights are brighter than halogen and traditional light bulbs, offering better road sign recognition. The combination of improved visibility, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability makes LED headlights an excellent investment for most drivers.

The revolution in automotive lighting technology continues advancing, with LED headlights representing a significant step forward in safety, efficiency, and performance. As these systems become more affordable and widely available, they’re transforming how we approach nighttime driving, making roads safer for everyone while reducing environmental impact through improved energy efficiency.

For modern drivers seeking the best combination of performance, reliability, and long-term value, LED headlights represent the clear choice for illuminating the path ahead.

 

 

Days of across-the-board pay rises are over as Irish firms prioritise critical skills

The Morgan McKinley 2025 Irish Salary Guide – Ireland’s most comprehensive analysis of pay across a range of professions and sectors – has been published.

Morgan McKinley, the Irish-owned global talent services company, anticipates that Irish employers will take a measured approach to salary increases in 2025, with pay rises expected to remain modest at 2-3%. Despite a tight labour market and rising costs, businesses are prioritising targeted salary hikes for high-demand roles over broad pay adjustments.

Against a backdrop of moderate inflation and planned minimum wage hikes, companies are focusing on retaining talent in strategic areas. The days of across-the-board salary increases appear to be over, as firms adopt a more calculated approach, offering raises where they are most needed to address skill shortages.

The guide is accompanied by insights from an in-depth survey of both employers and employees in Ireland, offering a dual perspective on key trends in pay, benefits, hiring practices, and workplace flexibility in Ireland.

Detailed commentary follows below including key sectoral considerations and currently most in-demand skills/ roles:

Trayc Keevans, Global FDI Director at Morgan McKinley, commented on the findings: “Ireland’s employment market remains competitive, with organisations becoming more selective about salary increases. While overall pay growth is modest, demand for skilled talent in technology, finance, compliance, life sciences, projects and change and construction give professionals in these fields strong negotiating power. Employers must take a strategic approach to pay and benefits to retain top talent.”

The guide reveals that only 22% of organisations disclose salary ranges, while 60% opt for confidentiality, citing concerns over employee dissatisfaction and complex pay adjustments. “Salary transparency remains a contentious issue for many companies. Employers are wary of the impact open salary structures may have on existing teams, but there is growing pressure from employees and job seekers for greater clarity,” Keevans noted. “Companies that can implement structured and transparent salary frameworks will strengthen their ability to attract and retain talent.”

The demand for flexible working arrangements remains high, with 67% of employees valuing remote work options and 56% prioritising flexible hours. While dissatisfaction with benefits has eased slightly, more than half (54%) of employees believe their packages need improvement, highlighting pensions, health insurance, and bonuses as critical employee offerings.

Despite 44% of companies increasing salaries in the past six months, businesses remain cautious about wage inflation. Rather than large-scale pay hikes, firms are adopting structured salary transparency and career progression plans to attract and retain skilled professionals in key sectors such as technology, life sciences, and financial services.

“We are seeing a shift from reactive salary increases towards more strategic talent retention initiatives. Employers who focus on structured career progression, meaningful benefits, and flexibility will be in the strongest position to compete for talent,” Keevans added.

While more than half (56%) of employees expect a salary increase in 2025, more than 10% remain uncertain. Economic factors, company performance, and shifting hiring trends are fuelling this uncertainty, making job security a top concern. Professionals in highly competitive industries are increasingly looking beyond salary, valuing long-term career prospects and work-life balance.

“The regional recruitment market in Ireland is thriving, with growing investment in remote work and regional job hubs creating exciting new opportunities outside Dublin. While Dublin remains a major employment hub with a strong multinational presence, the regions are becoming increasingly attractive, offering growing career prospects, a more affordable cost of living, and an enhanced work-life balance. Together, these developments are strengthening Ireland’s position as a diverse and dynamic place to build a career.

“The Irish job market has settled into a measured pace after the rapid post-pandemic shifts. While economic and regulatory challenges persist, companies that invest in salary transparency, structured career progression, and flexible working policies will be best positioned to attract and retain top talent in 2025,” concluded Keevans.

Sectoral highlights:

Technology

Most in demand positions for 2025: Automation Engineer, DevOps experience, Cybersecurity specialists, Infosec specialists, and DORA/ NSIT related hires.

Ireland’s technology sector stabilised in 2024 following restructuring in 2023, with hiring resuming cautiously amid budget constraints. While recruitment was slow in the first half of the year, demand picked up from July, with 70% of roles being newly created rather than replacements. Cybersecurity, compliance, and UX remain key hiring areas, driven by regulatory changes such as NIS2, DORA, and the upcoming EEA implementation. Increased candidate availability, particularly in cybersecurity, has created a more competitive job market, leading to slight declines in contract daily rates. Salaries have largely plateaued, with job movers securing modest increases of around 10%, a stark contrast to the rapid salary growth seen in previous years. Hiring in 2025 is expected to remain measured, with continued demand for specialised technology roles.

Projects & Change

Most in demand positions for 2025: IT Project Manager, Business Analyst and Change Manager.

Ireland’s Projects & Change talent market in 2024 favoured contract roles, particularly in tech and finance, as companies sought flexibility for short-term projects. Demand remained high for digital transformation, ERP implementation, and agile expertise, though shortages intensified competition. Hiring in GDPR, ESG, and DORA compliance was cautious as firms assessed long-term needs. Permanent roles were still key in healthcare, utilities, and finance. Salaries rose modestly, especially in transformation and compliance roles, though increases lagged behind living costs. In 2025, demand will remain strong, with firms balancing talent needs against budget constraints while streamlining hiring to secure top candidates.

Accounting and Finance

Most in demand positions for 2025: Finance Director, Financial Accountant: 0-3 years PQE, FP&A / Finance Business Partner, Financial Controller and Accounts Payable.

Accounting and finance roles continue to attract steady interest, particularly at the senior level, but newly qualified accountants are in short supply due to emigration trends. Dublin remains a hub for permanent roles, with employers increasingly favouring in-office work over remote arrangements. Salary growth in this sector has been limited, except for highly sought-after professionals transitioning from top accounting firms.

ESG

Most in demand positions for 2025: ESG Reporting Manager, Head of Sustainability, ESG Reporting Analyst, Sustainability Advisor.

Regulatory changes and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) requirements are driving demand for skilled professionals in banking and financial services. Firms are balancing increased hiring needs with budget constraints, making contract roles an attractive option. While salaries remain competitive, businesses are enhancing benefits and hybrid working models to retain top talent.

Banking & Financial Services

Most in demand positions for 2025: Risk and Compliance Analyst, Financial Planner/ Wealth Manager, Pension Administrator, Credit Analyst, Investment Banking Analyst and Financial Crime Analyst.

The banking and financial services sector has seen a notable increase in contract roles, particularly in regulatory compliance, risk management, and project management, as firms navigate economic and regulatory pressures. Permanent hiring remains strong in wealth management and senior leadership positions, reflecting long-term business confidence. Demand for compliance, risk, and ESG specialists has intensified, driving salaries higher for niche roles, while broader salary growth is expected to align with inflation. Brexit has reinforced Ireland’s status as a financial hub, sustaining demand for skilled talent. Retention strategies, including enhanced benefits, career development, and hybrid work models, will be critical as firms compete for top professionals in an evolving market.

Life sciences & engineering

Most in demand positions for 2025: Project Engineers, Automation (Siemens, Delta V, Rockwell), Tech Transfer/NPI, QC Microbiology (Across all levels) and Regulatory Affairs Specialists.

Life sciences and engineering remain high-growth sectors, with strong demand for contract roles in validation, automation, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing driven by new product introductions, transfers, and cost-saving strategies. Contract rates remain high, particularly for onsite and relocation-heavy roles, while permanent salary increases have been more modest, generally aligning with inflation. Employers are focusing on flexible work arrangements and enhanced benefits to attract and retain talent, as accommodation shortages in Cork, Limerick, and Dublin continue to pose challenges for relocation. Candidates are prioritising career progression, work-life balance, and total compensation over base salary alone, making non-monetary benefits a key differentiator in hiring and retention strategies.

Supply chain & procurement

Most in demand positions for 2025: Procurement/Purchasing Specialist, Procurement Manager.

Ireland’s Supply Chain & Procurement talent market remained steady in 2024, with a strong preference for permanent roles over contracts, particularly in the summer when 90% of available positions were permanent. This shift reflects companies’ focus on long-term stability in supply chain operations. Demand for procurement, supply chain, and logistics professionals remained consistent, though senior-level movement was limited. Salaries saw modest increases at mid-junior levels, while senior professionals experienced more substantial rises, largely in line with inflation.

Construction

Most in demand positions for 2025: Quantity Surveyors, Electrical Project Managers, Mechanical, Project Managers, Site Engineers and Project Managers.

The construction sector continues to grapple with labour shortages, particularly in engineering, project management, and quantity surveying. Government-backed infrastructure investments and housing targets – 500,000 new homes over the next decade – are driving strong hiring demand, keeping salaries competitive. Irish construction firms are also delivering major projects across Europe, adding to the need for skilled professionals.

Labour shortages persist in both trades and professional roles, exacerbated by gaps in the education system and housing challenges that limit overseas recruitment. At the same time, demand for specialist skills is rising, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure, as Ireland accelerates retrofitting, EV charging projects, and upgrades to essential services. These trends continue to shape hiring needs and salary growth across the sector.

Legal, risk & compliance

Most in demand positions for 2025: Construction Lawyers, Energy Lawyers and Employment Lawyers.

Ireland’s Legal & Compliance market remained stable in 2024, with rising demand for contract roles in data protection, DORA compliance, AI, and corporate governance, while most hires remained permanent. Private practice hiring was strong early in the year, while in-house legal roles grew later. Competition remains intense in fintech, intellectual property, energy, and employment law, though demand for corporate and banking lawyers has dipped.

A shortage of niche expertise has extended hiring timelines as firms prioritise both technical skills and cultural fit. Salaries have largely remained flat, with new legal graduates increasing competition and budget constraints limiting pay growth. While regulatory workloads have risen, this has not consistently led to higher salaries. In 2025, demand for specialised legal skills may drive salary growth in key areas, while firms focus on upskilling, flexible work, and employer branding to attract top talent.

Executive

Most in demand positions for 2025: CFO, CISO, CTO and COO.

The Executive Search market in Ireland remained strong in 2024, with high demand for senior roles, particularly in retail and specialised technology positions such as CTOs and CISOs. The demand for strong CFOs remains high, given the need for strategic financial leadership amid economic uncertainties, including global trade tensions, to ensure financial resilience. Additionally, the role of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) has gained prominence.

With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, companies are prioritising cybersecurity at the executive level to protect sensitive data and maintain stakeholder trust. However, hiring remains slow, often taking 3–6 months, prompting companies to expand their search internationally to address skill shortages. This trend is expected to continue in 2025 as firms compete for top-tier talent. Executive salaries remain competitive, with candidates prioritising total compensation packages, including bonuses and long-term incentives. Customised remuneration structures are set to remain key in attracting senior leaders.

Human Resources

Most in demand positions for 2025: HR Manager, HR Generalist, TA/HR coordinator at contract level.

The HR talent market slowed significantly in 2024, particularly within multinationals, with Talent Acquisition roles hit hardest due to over-hiring in 2022. Most opportunities have been contract-based at the TA coordinator level, and candidates are cautious in considering new roles. Hiring is expected to gradually recover in 2025 as the market stabilises. HR salaries, which rose in 2022–2023, have now levelled off, though candidates at mid-senior levels increasingly prioritise benefits such as pensions and healthcare alongside base pay.

Sales & Marketing

Most in demand positions for 2025: Communications Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist and Event Executive.

The Sales & Marketing market in Ireland leaned toward permanent roles in 2024, with mid-senior hiring dominating while executive-level opportunities declined. Competition remained strong, with counteroffers common as candidates prioritised flexibility, pay, and bonuses. Dublin retained a deep talent pool, while Cork faced shortages. Job flow dropped from 2023 as economic caution slowed hiring, leading to lengthier recruitment processes. Salaries remained stable and are expected to hold steady in 2025, with firms focusing on strategic talent retention amid continued market uncertainty.

Multilingual

Most in demand positions for 2025: Customer Service Advisor, Account Manager, AML/Compliance Analyst, Customer Onboarding Specialist.

 The multilingual hiring market in Ireland for 2025 is expected to see continued demand for German, Nordic languages (including Finnish and Danish), Portuguese, Dutch, Turkish, Arabic, and Asian languages such as Mandarin and Thai. While Inside Sales roles within Big Tech have slowed, employers are increasingly seeking language talent for Customer Service, AML, and KYC positions, reflecting a broader diversification of multilingual career opportunities.

This shift highlights the growing importance of language skills beyond sales, as companies prioritise customer experience and regulatory compliance functions.  However, attracting multilingual talent to Ireland – particularly to key hubs like Dublin and Cork – remains a challenge, with housing availability and affordability posing an obstacle for relocation.

Full survey

The New Visa Policy Will Cost the UK £25 Billion, but What About Businesses

With the qualifying income for skilled workers rising to £38,700 annually in April 2024, the UK government has changed its visa rules significantly. This change is a component of a larger project aiming at tightening immigration laws and handling changing economic issues. Companies in many different sectors are already struggling with the effects as the change affects labour dynamics, running expenses, and recruiting policies.

Skilled workers could formerly apply for visas if their employment paid a minimum wage of £26,200 annually. Set at £38,700 yearly, the barrier now more nearly corresponds with median income with the April 2024 adjustment. This change seeks to guarantee that qualified worker visas are allocated for higher-paying employment, therefore giving priority to occupations that greatly benefit the UK economy. Although this approach fits the long-term goal of the government—that of lowering net migration – it presents significant difficulties for companies, especially those depending on qualified individuals in lower-salaried positions.

The financial ramifications of this approach go beyond certain sectors. Over the next 10 years, experts calculate the visa reforms would cost the UK economy £25 billion. This amazing number underlines the larger financial cost of running such a scheme. Still, the key issue is: What direct costs businesses will incur? Although the response differs depending on the industry, since the new threshold went into effect, the overall influence on long-term personnel strategy, operating expenditures, and recruiting budgets will be significant.

Healthcare is one industry especially sensitive to the developments. Although the NHS and care providers mostly rely on foreign workers to cover shortages in vital positions, the new barrier will greatly shrink the pool of qualified candidates. Although certain healthcare positions qualify for pay exemptions under the Shortage Occupation List, associated industries like social care and nursing will experience severe workforce shortages. According to Migration Advisory Committee data, almost 75% of women and over 70% of workers made less than the new benchmark. This change in the pay criteria will make companies rethink their hiring plans or deal with skills shortages.

Additionally, small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) will be particularly strained, especially in the IT and engineering industries, where many SMEs depend on foreign personnel to contribute specific talents to their operations. Smaller companies will battle to attract highly compensated people versus bigger companies with more strong financial means. Industry analysts worry that these difficulties may impede SMEs’ innovation and expansion, which is so important for the UK economy.

Foundation of the UK economy, the IT sector nonetheless faces unique difficulties. Valued at £150 billion yearly, the industry depends on global talent especially in startups where pay often barely meet £38,700. The rise will deter foreign talent from looking at UK prospects, therefore guiding qualified individuals to nations with less tight immigration policies. The competitive advantage of the UK in the worldwide technological scene will be threatened by this talent drain.

Also hurting are retail and hotel sectors, which often depend on qualified employment below the new pay range. Though they do not usually predominate in the skilled worker visa category, these industries depend on management and specialised skills that are becoming more difficult to find. The UK’s Largest Hospitality Salary Survey 2024 shows that 37% of retail workers fall within the £20,000–£30,000 pay bracket, hence companies will either have to increase salaries or deal with manpower shortages. These growing expenses most likely to be passed on to consumers, therefore aggravating inflationary pressures.

One cannot ignore the more general economic consequences. The increased visa requirement lessens dependence on foreign labour, therefore complementing the government’s aim to strengthen home labour markets. But it accentuates previously existing skill shortages, especially in industries already having trouble filling locally. Businesses are spending more on training and development initiatives to upskill the local workforce as they negotiate these changes, therefore escalating running costs.

The new visa rule adds even another level of complication for businesses already negotiating a turbulent economic environment shaped by inflation and interest rate increases. The increase in the skilled worker requirement indirectly affects other expenses, including pension payments. Businesses paying more to satisfy the new visa rules have been obliged to boost pension payments to maintain conformity with corporate plans. While employers face added costs, employees stand to benefit from larger pension contributions by strengthening their retirement savings and enabling early retirement opportunities. This potential financial strain may lead businesses to reevaluate their retirement policies or explore cost-saving measures.

Some contend, despite the difficulties, the regulation encourages companies to give local talent first priority. The government wants to increase economic value and production by building a more selective immigration program. Businesses must negotiate the temporary disruptions that accompany such a major policy change, balancing the demand for qualified personnel with the cost consequences of higher pay and more stringent visa requirements.

The first several months after the April 2024 transformation have shown that industry-wide adaption would be unequal. While some companies will withstand the change with calculated tweaks, others might suffer long-term consequences. The knock-on consequences of this strategy should alter the UK’s economic and labour scene for years to come as companies rethink budgets and employment policies.

HP Study: Business and government leaders believe technology is key to expanding economic opportunity

HP Inc. unveiled a new study with Oxford Economics revealing enthusiasm among global leaders to use technology including AI to advance key impact goals.

The study of business executives and government officials in 10 countries found 3 out of 4 leaders believe technology is key to expanding economic opportunity (76%) and that AI will help drive progress towards sustainability and social impact goals (76%).

Further, business leaders are either already using AI or plan to in the next 1-2 years for goals such as increasing access to digital education (90%), workforce development (89%), and workforce diversity (86%).

“AI’s reach holds great promise to help HP accelerate our sustainable and social impact goals,” said Val Gabriel, Managing Director at HP Ireland. “From how we responsibly build AI PCs for first-time users to data scientists who use our workstations to help local farmers build more resilient businesses, this is the technology that can move businesses and our communities forward.”

Accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030

About one-third of the global population remains offline, costing the world billions of dollars in lost GDP each year. The digital divide has been growing since the advent of technology, and AI could exacerbate these disparities if intentional action isn’t taken.

“Everyone deserves an opportunity to access the tools needed to thrive in the digital economy,” said Gabriel. “We know technology can be a great equaliser and a powerful tool to drive progress. Yet, to truly narrow the digital divide in our rapidly evolving world, we must also equip individuals with the skills to use technology.”

In its latest Sustainable Impact report released today, HP announced it has accelerated digital equity for more than 45 million people since 2021, bringing the organisation nearly a third of the way to its goal of reaching 150 million people by 2030.

The rapid progress is a result of innovative partnerships with key organisations that create tailored solutions for communities. HP pursues impactful programs, strategic investments and partnerships that prioritise those mostly likely to experience the digital divide.

In 2023, HP:

  • Supported digital equity solutions developed by ten organisations in Malaysia, South Africa and Mexico with the Digital Equity Accelerator, such as improvements in digital literacy to access employment, access to educational hardware and software in schools and development of digital platforms to support improved health outcomes. In total, the Accelerator reached 6.4 million people in 2023.
  • Launched more than 100 Digital Hubs in partnership with World YMCA to support digital programming and literacy. For example, the West Orem Digital Hub, provided by YMCA Houston in Texas aims to increase community access to educational, economic, and social opportunities for young people, support services for families, and digital literacy courses for aging members of the community. More than 500,000 individuals were reached globally in 2023.
  • Opened two NABU HP Creative Labs in the U.S. and the Philippines, equipping artists and authors with technology to write and illustrate hundreds of books for children in local languages each year. The free books have helped 1.9 million children in 2023 build confidence, connection to culture and literacy skills, a key building block to participation in the digital economy.

Building skills amid the rise of AI

Both business and government officials report lack of skills as a top barrier to meeting key organisational goals, only economic volatility ranked higher.

Skills-building is a core piece of HP’s digital equity approach. As a result, HP is expanding its goal to enrol 2.75 million users in the free skills-building program HP LIFE. The program from the HP Foundation has already enrolled and enabled more than 1.2 million users to access economic opportunities or start businesses.

HP is undertaking new initiatives to expand responsible access and use of AI, the top reported investment area of businesses today:

  • Expand our free HP LIFE Digital Business Skills courses by releasing a new course on AI skills later this year.
  • Kick-off the HP AI in Social Impact Award, in collaboration with MIT Solve, which provides technology designed for building and running AI applications to social entrepreneurs and organisations that use AI to advance education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in communities globally.
  • Debut commercial and consumer Next-Gen AI PCs to market this month, a new category of devices crafted for work and creation.

HP aspires to be the most sustainable and just technology company. HP is committed to continually examining its progress and evaluating further actions to achieve a more equitable and sustainable future.

Plumbing the Depths of Bitcoin Mining: Examining the Process and Economic Framework

In the ever-evolving realm of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin maintains its prominent position as the trailblazing digital currency. The operational bedrock of the Bitcoin network rests on the practice known as mining. This mining process assumes a pivotal role, encompassing the generation of fresh coins and the authentication of transactions. Within this all-encompassing exposition, we embark on an extensive journey into the multifaceted realm of Bitcoin mining, thoroughly examining its technical complexities, its ecological repercussions, and its substantial economic implications. Don’t have a clear understanding about crypto trading? This financial tool named Immediate Edge has every resource that can help you in making informed decisions. Learn more!

Understanding Bitcoin Mining

What is Bitcoin Mining?

Bitcoin mining is the process by which new bitcoins are created and added to the circulating supply. This process also serves as the mechanism through which transactions are confirmed and added to the blockchain, the public ledger that underpins the entire Bitcoin network. Miners use powerful computers to solve complex mathematical puzzles, and the first miner to solve the puzzle gets to add a new block of transactions to the blockchain.

Proof-of-Work Consensus Mechanism

At the heart of Bitcoin mining lies the proof-of-work consensus mechanism. Miners compete to solve these mathematical puzzles, and the solution requires a substantial amount of computational power. This not only ensures the security of the network but also makes it incredibly difficult for malicious actors to alter past transactions.

The Technical Process

Mining Hardware and Software

Miners utilize specialized hardware called ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) to carry out the complex computations essential for the mining process. These ASICs are purposefully engineered to enhance the efficiency of the precise calculations needed for solving proof-of-work puzzles within the blockchain. In addition to the hardware, miners rely on mining software that facilitates the connection between their ASICs and the Bitcoin network. This connection enables miners to actively engage in the validation and verification procedures inherent to the Bitcoin ecosystem.

The Mining Process Explained

  • Transaction Validation: Miners select a set of unconfirmed transactions from the Bitcoin mempool, which is a pool of pending transactions.

 

  • Creating the Block Header: Miners gather these transactions and create a block header. This header includes the previous block’s hash, a timestamp, and a unique cryptographic nonce.

 

  • Finding the Nonce: Miners iterate through different nonce values and combine them with the block header. This process continues until a valid hash is found that meets the network’s difficulty target.

 

  • Proof-of-Work: The miner who successfully discovers the valid hash broadcasts it to the network. Other miners then verify the hash and if it’s valid, the new block is added to the blockchain.

Environmental Concerns

Energy Consumption

While the process of Bitcoin mining is essential, it has faced criticism for its substantial energy consumption. The massive computational power required to solve proof-of-work puzzles contributes to the carbon footprint of the network. Some argue that this energy consumption is unsustainable and raises questions about the environmental impact of the cryptocurrency industry.

Economic Framework of Bitcoin Mining

Rewards and Incentives

Miners are incentivized to participate in the network through two primary mechanisms: block rewards and transaction fees. Initially, when Bitcoin was created, miners received a fixed block reward for each successfully mined block. However, this reward is halved approximately every four years in an event known as the “halving.”

Halving and Scarcity

The halving event is crucial to Bitcoin’s economic model. It ensures a controlled and predictable issuance rate, simulating the scarcity of precious resources like gold. As the block reward decreases over time, scarcity increases, potentially leading to upward price pressure as demand continues to grow.

The Future of Bitcoin Mining

As the cryptocurrency landscape evolves, so does the process of Bitcoin mining. Innovations like the Lightning Network aim to address scalability issues and reduce transaction fees. Additionally, some researchers are exploring alternative consensus mechanisms that could alleviate the energy consumption concerns associated with proof-of-work.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bitcoin mining is a complex and integral part of the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Its technical intricacies, environmental impact, and economic significance make it a topic of constant discussion and innovation. As the industry continues to evolve, finding a balance between sustainability, efficiency, and security will be paramount. Understanding the depths of Bitcoin mining provides insights into the broader implications of decentralized digital currencies and their potential to reshape the financial landscape.