From energy shocks and inflation risks: What are the opportunities and risks shaping business right now?

Chief Economist Kate English and Economist Katherine Doyle discuss the forces redrawing the business landscape and the signals leaders should be watching for. What's covered in today's episode? The global economy is holding up, but the pressure points are building. This episode of The D-Brief discusses the indications of a more uncertain outlook for 2026, shaped by energy market disruption, persistent inflation risks and shifting expectations for interest rates. The economists explores why global growth is still tracking at just over 3%, yet feels increasingly fragile, with diverging regional performance and renewed volatility driven by geopolitical tensions and commodity pricing. Closer to home, the conversation turns to Ireland's exposure to energy imports, the implications for inflation, and how scenario forecasting is becoming essential in a less predictable environment. This episode also looks beyond the immediate cycle. From AI investment and the risk of market repricing, to changing labour market dynamics and the slowdown in employment growth, the discussion focuses on what these shifts mean in practice for businesses operating in Ireland today. Hosted by the Economic Insights Team at Deloitte Ireland Stay informed. Stay curious.  Follow us on LinkedIn for more insights: Kate English | LinkedIn