Venture capital investment in generative AI jumped by 65% in the first 11 months of the year.  That’s according to new analysis from EY Ireland, whose Technology, Media and Entertainment and Telecommunications Industry Leader Grit Young.

Echelon data centres welcome the new direction from the commission for the regulation of utilities concerning large energy users. All to discuss with Niall Molloy, CEO, Echelon Data Centres.

Monday business markets news with Emmet Oliver along with Russ Mould from AJ Bell. 

There was another serious warning about Ireland’s over dependence on a small cohort of American multinationals today.  The ESRI said that these firms were making substantial positive contributions to the country But potential job cuts and America’s tilt towards nationalism could jeopardise that Foreign investment and growth in Ireland.  The report also looks at how we can grow home-grown productivity here. Prof Martina Lawless is the Director of the ESRI.

All the market and business news with Joe Lynam along with Austin Hughes  from AJ Bell.

Needless to say cyber risks top the poll for major international companies as the biggest source of threats.  That's followed by a global economic slowdown and potential regulatory or legislative changes coming down the tracks.  The global risk survey was carried out by the professional services company AON. Speaking to Joe this morning was Rachael Ingle the Chief Executive of AON Ireland. 

Thursdays business news headlines with Joe Lynam.

December and early January are usually the busiest period for furniture sales. Many of us like new stuff for Christmas and others like to refresh our homes during the Winter sales.  One of the biggest furniture retailers is of course IKEA and now they've launched an interest free financing for bigger purchases.

But should we be encouraging shoppers to take out money on credit - even if the rate is 0%?  Joe discuss all with Callum Leavy, the Country Service Experience Lead with IKEA Ireland.  

For decades pharmacists have been giving free advice and care to their customers but now, they will be able to legally prescribe some medication as well.  It’s a step change and will hopefully unclog GP surgeries but also benefit pharmacies economically.  They will only be allowed to prescribe 8 very specific symptoms but it’s hoped the list will grow.  All to discuss with Caoimhe McAuley who is Director of Pharmacy & Superintendent Pharmacist with Boots and IPU Vice-president. 

We’re only a few weeks away from the start of auto enrollment whereby nearly everyone at work will be signed up to a pension scheme.  But many employers can opt to launch their workplace retirement schemes and often do this saving with giants like Zurich, Irish Life or Aviva. 

As of this week they could choose to go for a brand-new Irish pension company offering a low-cost digital-only way for them to save their and their workers’ retirement savings. Speaking to Joe with more on this was Ailish Dooley the Chief Executive with Zen Pensions.